A defendant is found liable for causing cancer due to the dumping of toxins into the river. The court awards a plaintiff who was sick $5 million in damages, in addition to compensating the plaintiff for all medical costs, lost wages, pain and suffering, and actual losses. The $5 million award is intended to ensure the company never dumps toxins again. The $5 million is an example of what type of damages?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The $5 million is an example of punitive damages, which are intended to punish the defendant for their actions and deter them and others from committing similar acts in the future.

A Defendant Is Found Liable for Causing Cancer Due to the Dumping