Punitive Damages

Punitive damages or “exemplary damages” are awarded in civil trials to punish a defendant for gross negligence, recklessness or intentional misconduct. Such damages are not intended to compensate the victim but they are included in the compensation award, often resulting in a significantly higher amount than the standard economic and non-economic damages awarded in personal injury cases. The purpose of punitive damages is to punish the wrongdoing of the defendant and sometimes also to serve as a warning to the general public of the need to follow the duty of care expected of them. How likely are you to ...