Economic Damages

Pronunciation: ek-uh-NOM-ik DAM-uh-jez

Torts › Damages

Definition

Compensatory damages for quantifiable monetary losses. Includes past and future medical expenses, lost wages, lost earning capacity, property damage. Also called special damages. Must be proven with reasonable certainty. Can include future economic losses if reasonably certain to occur.

Related terms

• Damages — The fourth and final element of negligence, requiring proof that the plaintiff suffered actual harm or loss. Damages…
• Non-Economic Damages — Compensatory damages for intangible harms not easily quantifiable. Includes pain and suffering, emotional distress, loss of enjoyment of…
• Collateral Source Rule — Benefits plaintiff receives from sources independent of tortfeasor do not reduce defendant's liability. Insurance payments, sick leave, gifts,…

Go deeper

2 worked examples, 4 exceptions, landmark cases, flashcards, issue spotting and the interactive mind map for Economic Damages are available with a free account.

Create a free account — the whole Torts subject is free.