“Hi Roller!  Can you explain what punitive damages are?  And am I entitled to punitive damages?”

Brian Roller:

Great question.  Punitive damages may be awarded to an injured party but are really intended to punish the at fault party in extraordinary cases.  The at fault party is being punished because they engaged in conduct that is unacceptable in our civilized society. His or her conduct created an unreasonable risk of a significant injury for either the injured party or the public.

The goal of seeking punitive damages is to act as a deterrent for wrongful behavior.  They can also be known as exemplary damages, meaning they serve as an example to deter the defendant – or others – from behaving in such a way in the future.

Cases that may qualify for punitive damages include: 

• damages caused by a drunk driver
• drag racing on the highway
• intentionally causing harm
• intentional attacks using a weapon

You won’t be able to get punitive damages if you are the victim of an “accident.” Punitive damages require something substantially greater.  Are the actions blatant enough to justify punitive damages?  That’s what we are here to help you figure out.  It’s worth the phone call.  

1-888-HI-ROLLER (447-6553) 

And remember, there are no costs to you for our representation, and we only get paid if you get paid!

Source:

https://www.investopedia.com/terms/p/punitive-damages.asp