What is the difference between compensatory and punitive damages?

Compensatory damages and punitive damages are two different types of damages that can be awarded when a person is involved in an accident. Compensatory damages are intended to cover the costs and losses associated with an accident, such as medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering. These damages are specifically meant to reimburse the victim or plaintiff for their losses or compensate them for their injury. Punitive damages, on the other hand, are meant to punish the wrongdoer for their careless or reckless behavior. They are not intended to reimburse the plaintiff for any of their losses but are instead meant to deter the wrongdoer from engaging in similar conduct in the future. In Kansas, punitive damages are generally awarded if the conduct of the defendant was intentional, malicious, or in reckless disregard of the rights of the plaintiff.

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What is the difference between compensatory and punitive damages?

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