General damages are a type of legal damages sought in civil lawsuits for compensation from any perceived wrongs. These damages typically fall outside of what would be considered economic damages, but rather are geared towards providing the individual with a sense of retribution or justice. Examples of general damages could include payment for physical or emotional pain, suffering, and humiliation.
What Does the Law Say About General Damages?
In order for a plaintiff to be able to sue for general damages, it must be proven that the defendant’s actions were the direct cause of the harm that the plaintiff endured. The plaintiff must also prove that the defendant was negligent, meaning that they had a legal obligation to avoid causing harm to the plaintiff, which they colled.
Examples of General Damages
Examples of general damages can range from cases of negligence, such as when a driver carelessly causes an automobile accident resulting in serious injuries, to cases of intentional torts, such as when a business owner intentionally defames a customer’s good name. Other situations in which general damages may be sought could include physical assault or emotional distress caused by reckless behavior or outrageous conduct.
Conclusion
General damages provide a way for an individual to seek retribution for harm that cannot be quantified. Even for non-economic losses, individuals deserve recognition for the pain and suffering that has been caused by someone else’s actions. Understanding what general damages are is an important part of any legal conversation, and being aware of the various scenarios in which general damages may be sought can help make sure those individuals receive the just compensation they deserve.