The types of compensation awarded are
- General damages – This is compensation for pain, suffering and emotional distress.
- Special damages – This is financial compensation that covers loss of earnings and all the other costs that the Claimant has incurred due to their injury or loss. Special damages may also include likely future losses.
In some cases, the Defendant may be ordered to pay punitive damages. This is extra money the Defendant pays as a punishment to deter them from repeating their behaviour in the future. Punitive damages are generally paid where behaviour is malicious or grossly reckless.