Which statement is true regarding punitive damages in product liability cases?
A) Punitive damages are not available in product liability actions.
B) The amount of the punitive-damage award is determined by the wealth of the defendant only.
C) The amount of the punitive-damage award is determined by the maliciousness of the action only.
D) The amount of the punitive-damage award is determined by the wealth of the defendant and the maliciousness of the action.
E) Punitive damages are meant to compensate the plaintiff for injury and to make the plaintiff whole.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Punitive damages in product liability cases are meant to punish the defendant for particularly malicious or egregious behavior and to deter similar conduct in the future. The amount of punitive damages can be influenced by both the defendant's wealth (to ensure the punishment is meaningful) and the degree of maliciousness or recklessness of their actions. This approach helps ensure that the punitive damages serve as an effective deterrent without being unduly harsh or excessively lenient.

Which Statement Is True Regarding Punitive Damages in Product Liability