When dealing with a personal injury lawsuit, you may have learned about multiple types of damages, including punitive ones. Punitive damages can be considered if you were involved in an accident directly caused by someone’s negligence or harmful intent. Also called “exemplary damages,” punitive damages are often awarded when the defendant is a large company or entity. If you were injured due to a corporation’s negligence, punitive damages might be part of your settlement. Punitive vs. Compensatory Damages One way to define the difference between punitive and compensatory damages is that punitive damages are awarded to help prevent the mishap from recurring, while compensatory damages ensure the victim receives the justice they deserve. Punitive damages punish the defendant for their crime and make them an example to others. The compensation ensures the defendant doesn’t commit the same crime again while warning others they can face a similar penalty. These damages are often awarded when large corporations are involved, but they can also be granted in drunk or distracted driving accidents.
Meanwhile, compensatory damages reimburse the victim for the costs caused by the accident, such as medical bills, car repairs, missed wages, etc. Compensatory damages can also include future expenses for the victim, like ongoing medical care for a severe injury.
Examples of Punitive Damages There are various causes for punitive damages. These include:
• Malpractice • Product liability (defective products) • Drunk/distracted driving • Assault and battery
How Often Are Punitive Damages Granted? Punitive damages are hard to justify as you must prove the defendant acted maliciously or irresponsibly. You will also have to ensure the cost of punitive damages accurately reflects the injury and damage. In a case where punitive damages could be awarded, you will need a reliable attorney to help guide you through all the obstacles ahead. While receiving punitive damages is challenging, it’s not impossible. Call our expert team at 503-325-8600 to learn more.
PUZZLE
Ginger Pork Stir-Fry Inspired by TasteOfHome.com
Ingredients
• 1 tbsp cornstarch • 1 cup orange juice • 2 tbsp soy sauce
• 2 tbsp canola oil • 1 small onion, sliced • 1/4 lb fresh snow peas • 1/2 sweet red pepper, julienned • Cooked rice • Green onion, chopped (optional) • Sesame seeds (optional)
• 2 cloves garlic, minced • 1/4 tsp ground ginger • 1 lb pork tenderloin, cut into thin strips
Directions
1. In a small bowl, whisk cornstarch, orange juice, soy sauce, garlic, and ginger until smooth; set aside. 2. In a large skillet over medium-high heat, stir-fry pork in oil until lightly browned, about 4–5 minutes. Remove pork and add onion, peas, and red pepper. Cook until crisp-tender, about 3–5 minutes. 3. Stir in orange juice mixture and pork. Bring to a boil, and then cook until thickened, about 2 minutes. Serve over rice. Garnish with green onion and sesame seeds, if desired.
The Di Bartolomeo Law Office, P.C. 1139 Exchange Street | Astoria, Oregon | 503-325-8600 | www.JoeDiBartolomeo.com
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