What are the common types of damages in a personal injury case?
In Massachusetts, there are several types of damages, or compensation, that may be awarded in a personal injury case. These damages can be divided into two categories: compensatory damages and punitive damages. Compensatory damages are intended to compensate the victim of a personal injury for the losses they have suffered as a result of the injury. These damages may include medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and loss of enjoyment of life. Compensatory damages may also include permanent physical or cognitive disability, disfigurement, emotional distress, and other costs that may be associated with the injury. Punitive damages are intended to punish the wrongdoer by making them pay a large sum of money in addition to compensatory damages. These damages are not intended to compensate the victim in any way, but are instead meant to deter the wrongdoer from committing similar acts in the future. Punitive damages may also be awarded to deter other individuals from committing similar acts, but such damages are typically only awarded in cases such as medical malpractice, where a large group of people may be at risk of being harmed by the same conduct. In Massachusetts, the amount of damages to be awarded in a personal injury case is ultimately up to the court. However, these damages may be negotiated between the parties involved in the case in order to reach an agreement.
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