Are punitive damages available in a school bus accident case?

In Alaska, punitive damages may be available in a school bus accident case. Punitive damages are awards that are specifically intended to punish someone for particularly egregious conduct. The purpose of punitive damages is to punish and deter defendants from engaging in similarly negligent conduct in the future. In order for punitive damages to be available in a school bus accident case in Alaska, the plaintiff must prove that the defendant’s actions showed a willful and wanton disregard for the safety of the plaintiff. This type of conduct would need to be more than simple negligence. It would need to be proven that the defendant consciously disregarded the safety of the plaintiff or was in reckless disregard of the plaintiff’s safety. If punitive damages are awarded in a school bus accident case, the award can be quite significant. Punitive damages are meant to punish the defendant, and as such, awards are usually several times the amount of the compensatory damages. Punitive damage awards can be up to four times the amount of the compensatory damages. However, any punitive damage award that is higher than the compensatory damages must be approved by the court.

Related FAQs

How can I prove that the school bus driver was negligent in my accident?
What can I do if the school bus was not equipped with proper safety features?
What type of insurance coverage should I have if I am a school bus driver?
What types of compensation can I expect to receive after a school bus accident?
What should I do if I’ve been in a school bus accident?
How does comparative negligence affect my school bus accident claim?
How can I hold the school board responsible for the school bus accident?
How can I prove that the school board was negligent in my accident?
How can I prove that the school bus was not properly maintained?
How can I prove negligence in a school bus accident claim?

Are punitive damages available in a school bus accident case?

Related FAQs

Related Blog Posts