Sometimes Compensation Is Not Enough
In most negligence claims, attorneys for the injured party will seek compensatory damages — that is, compensation for the actual damages caused by the negligence of the defendant. These include payment for current and future medical expenses, pain and suffering, lost wages and property damage.
Designed to Punish and Deter Bad Behavior
The purpose of compensatory damages is to make up for the damage done to you and make you whole again. Punitive damages exist to punish the defendant and to deter others from engaging in similar actions.
At Kinerk, Beal, Schmidt, Dyer & Sethi, our attorneys will ask that punitive damages be awarded to our injured clients in addition to compensatory damages when the defendants' actions were particularly reprehensible.
Cases that may justify punitive damages may include:
- A drunk driver causes a car accident that results in serious injury.
- A drug manufacturer knew its product caused harm to customers, but did nothing to prevent it.
- Staff members at a group home or nursing facility neglect or abuse the residents they are supposed to care for.
In general, if the defendant's actions were intentional, willful, malicious or criminal, punitive damages may be an option.
Contact Our Tucson Law Firm
Our lawyers can analyze your case and tell you whether you may be able to receive punitive damages in addition to compensation for the harm you have suffered. We understand the law and know how to maximize the benefit to our clients. To arrange a free consultation about your case, please contact us today.
