What is the difference between general damages and special damages?

General damages and special damages are types of damages awarded through the legal system. In California, general damages are awarded as compensation for pain and suffering, mental anguish, loss of companionship, inconvenience, loss of reputation, and other losses that are not easily measurable in dollar amounts. Special damages, on the other hand, are measurable losses that the injured party has incurred as a result of the accident, such as medical bills, property damage, and lost wages. General damages are more difficult to quantify in monetary terms since they are often subjective. In a case such as an auto accident, the injured party may receive a lump sum of general damages that can be used to cover intangible losses, such as emotional distress or loss of quality of life. Special damages, however, are much easier to quantify since they are the actual economic losses directly stemming from the accident, such as medical bills, lost wages, and property damage. Both general and special damages are an important part of accident law in California. The injured party has a right to receive compensation for any losses and suffering that result from the accident, including both general damages and special damages. A qualified attorney can help to ensure that the injured party is properly compensated for all of their losses.

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What is the difference between general damages and special damages?

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