Which type of damages are awarded for the exact value of physical damage determined by receipts and medical bills?

• A. General Damages
• B. Compensatory Damages - Special
• C. Punitive Damages
• D. Emotional Distress Damages

Answer: (B)

Compensatory damages, specifically the special damages category, are designed to reimburse the injured party for specific, quantifiable losses. These losses are typically evidenced by receipts, invoices, and medical bills that clearly demonstrate the financial impact of the damage incurred.

When a claimant suffers loss due to physical damage—such as medical expenses from an injury or repair costs for property—special damages cover these out-of-pocket expenses directly attributable to the incident. This means the amount awarded corresponds directly to the documented costs, ensuring that the injured party is made whole economically.

In contrast, general damages refer to non-economic losses, such as pain and suffering, which do not have a direct monetary value easily computed with invoices or receipts. Punitive damages, on the other hand, are awarded as a form of punishment to the defendant, primarily aimed at deterring future wrongful conduct rather than compensating the plaintiff for specific losses. Lastly, emotional distress damages relate to psychological harm and are also categorized differently from the straightforward financial losses covered by special compensatory damages.