What is the difference between compensatory and punitive damages?

Compensatory damages and punitive damages are two different types of damages that may be awarded when a person is injured in an accident in Oklahoma. Compensatory damages are designed to compensate the injured party for losses that were directly caused by the accident, such as medical expenses, lost wages, property damage, and pain and suffering. On the other hand, punitive damages are not meant to compensate the injured party for any losses, but rather to punish the wrongdoer for their actions. Punitive damages are meant to deter similar conduct in the future and to send a message that this type of behavior is not acceptable. Punitive damages are typically awarded in cases of negligence or personal injury, but they can also be awarded in cases of fraud or intentional misconduct. In Oklahoma, punitive damages cannot exceed ten times the total awarded for compensatory damages.

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What is the difference between compensatory and punitive damages?

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