Which damages are awarded to a victim for losses that cannot be quantified?

In the context of personal injury and tort law, general damages are awarded to compensate victims for non-monetary losses that cannot be easily quantified. These damages are intended to cover pain and suffering, emotional distress, loss of enjoyment of life, and other similar intangible injuries. Unlike economic damages, which are based on specific monetary losses like medical bills, lost wages, and property damage, general damages recognize the broader impact of an injury that may not have a direct financial equivalent.

For example, if a person is involved in an accident and suffers from chronic pain or psychological trauma, general damages would be awarded to compensate for these challenges, as they do not have clear dollar amounts tied to them. This differentiation allows the legal system to acknowledge the varied and often profound effects that injuries can have on an individual’s life beyond just financial loss.