What is the difference between actual and nominal damages?

Actual damages and nominal damages are two distinct types of damages that are available to those who have been the victims of personal injury in Alaska. Actual damages are damages that are intended to compensate a plaintiff for any physical or economic losses that were sustained as a result of the injury, such as medical bills, lost wages, or property damage. Nominal damages are less tangible, and are intended to serve the purpose of recognizing that a legal wrong has occurred, and to provide an incentive to the defendant to bring their behavior into compliance with the law. Actual damages are typically the primary form of damages sought in personal injury cases in Alaska. They are quantifiable losses such as medical costs, lost wages, and property damage, and are intended to make the plaintiff economically whole. In contrast, nominal damages are much lower in amount and are awarded to symbolically acknowledge the wrongdoings of the defendant. While they are not intended to compensate the plaintiff for any of their economic losses, they can be advantageous in establishing a legal precedent. In conclusion, actual damages are intended to compensate a plaintiff for any economic losses that were sustained as a result of the injury, while nominal damages serve mainly to recognize the wrongdoings of the defendant and set a legal precedent. Both types of damages may be sought in personal injury cases in Alaska.

Related FAQs

How can I tell if I have a valid personal injury claim?
What kind of compensation can I receive for a wrongful death case?
What is the average amount of time to settle a personal injury case?
What if I can't reach an agreement with the insurance company?
What should I do if I am injured due to medical malpractice?
How can I pay for legal fees and expenses related to my personal injury case?
What is a contingency fee and how does it work?
What types of compensation are available for wrongful death?
What should I look for when choosing a personal injury lawyer?
What is the best way to negotiate with an insurance company?

What is the difference between actual and nominal damages?

Related FAQs

Related Blog Posts