Punitive damages in a personal injury lawsuit are awarded when the behavior of the defendant was especially egregious. The jury sends a message to both the public and future defendants that such behavior won’t be tolerated by awarding punitive damages. This type of compensation is awarded in especially high-profile lawsuits when the defendant’s conduct is especially reprehensible or outrageous.
• General Damages
Damages are monetary awards that a court can grant if someone hurts them or injures them through their actions. The damages might be intended to compensate the person for the injuries they’ve sustained due to someone else’s actions. For example, if somebody hurts your arm, you might be paid for your medical bills, your lost wages from missing work, and your pain and suffering.
Injuries from accidents can be expensive. That’s why Lake Worth Accident Attorney can help you recover by getting the money you deserve. Of course, lawyers charge a fee, but it’s a fee worth paying since all payments for damages go to you.
• Gross Negligence
Gross negligence is a higher legal standard than ordinary negligence, which involves failing to use regular care. Gross negligence involves a high degree of carelessness or reckless misconduct. In other words, gross negligence rises to the level of criminal activity. For example, a drunk person who strikes another while driving might be found to have been grossly negligent for not being more careful. For someone’s actions to be considered gross negligence, your Lake Worth Accident Attorney has to prove that the person who committed the act knew their actions would threaten another person, but they did it anyway.
• Lack of a Reasonable Basis
When a person is injured due to another’s negligence, they can seek monetary damages in a personal injury lawsuit. Punitive damages may be recovered in some cases, though only under certain circumstances. For example, there must be supporting evidence of intentional misconduct, gross negligence, or deceit on the party being sued. In addition, an injured person cannot recover punitive damages unless they show that the defendant intentionally engaged in tortious conduct or acted with a reckless disregard for the safety of others.
• Limitations
You must check the law in your state to learn about any limitations or caps that may be in place on punitive damages awards. Punitive damages are available in some states, including Florida, but are limited to three times the compensatory damage award or $500,000 for any single plaintiff, whichever is greater. It’s imperative that you talk to a Lake Worth Accident Attorney about your case to know for sure whether you will be able to collect them.
The reason these caps exist is to prevent plaintiffs from pursuing frivolous suits to make a quick buck. But, at the same time, it makes sense for plaintiffs to be concerned about the possibility of being awarded large amounts of money by juries who are sympathetic to their situation. For more information visit Our Website