insurance

General Damages

Compensation awarded for losses that naturally and necessarily result from an injury or breach, including pain and suffering, emotional distress, and loss of life enjoyment. These damages don't require specific monetary proof since they're inherent consequences of the harm suffered.

Example

“The jury awarded $150,000 in general damages for the plaintiff's pain and suffering, separate from the $50,000 in medical expenses.”

Memory Tip

General = Gut feelings - these cover the general emotional and physical suffering you can't put a receipt on.

Why It Matters

General damages often represent the largest portion of personal injury settlements, acknowledging that injuries cause suffering beyond just financial losses. Understanding this category helps accident victims and their families appreciate the full scope of potential compensation.

Common Misconception

Many people think only out-of-pocket expenses like medical bills and lost wages are recoverable, not realizing that pain, suffering, and reduced quality of life have significant monetary value in legal settlements. General damages often exceed special damages in serious injury cases.

In Practice

Maria suffers a broken leg in a car accident with $25,000 in medical bills and $10,000 in lost wages (special damages). However, she also endures six months of pain, cannot play tennis anymore, and suffers ongoing anxiety about driving. A jury might award her $75,000 in general damages for these intangible losses, bringing her total compensation to $110,000.

Etymology

From Latin 'damnum' meaning loss or hurt, combined with 'general' to distinguish these broad, inherent consequences from specific, calculable losses like medical bills.

Common Misspellings

general damgesgenreal damagesgeneral damangesgeneral damages

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