The valuation of damages in cases involving physical harm aims to compensate the injured party for losses incurred. This process typically involves assessing both tangible and intangible losses stemming from the incident. Economic, or special, damages comprise quantifiable expenses such as medical bills, lost wages, and property damage. Non-economic, or general, damages address subjective losses, including pain and suffering, emotional distress, and loss of enjoyment of life.
Accurately determining the full extent of these damages is crucial for ensuring fair compensation. Historical context reveals a growing awareness of the complex and often long-lasting effects of injuries, leading to more sophisticated methods of evaluating non-economic losses. A comprehensive evaluation benefits both parties by facilitating more efficient and equitable resolutions, mitigating the need for prolonged litigation.