Which damages are awarded when the injury was caused by gross negligence?

Punitive damages are awarded in cases of gross negligence as a means to punish the wrongdoer and deter others from engaging in similar conduct. Gross negligence refers to a severe degree of negligence that demonstrates a reckless disregard for the safety and lives of others. The rationale behind punitive damages is not just to compensate the injured party for their losses, but to send a strong message about the seriousness of the conduct involved.

In contrast, general damages are intended to compensate for non-economic losses such as pain and suffering, while special damages focus on quantifiable monetary losses like medical expenses and lost wages. Compensatory damages encompass both general and special damages aimed at making the injured party whole without the punitive aspect that characterizes punitive damages. Thus, the awarding of punitive damages specifically addresses gross negligence, beyond just compensating for a victim's injury.