What are the two types of compensatory damages?

Compensatory damages are designed to compensate a plaintiff for losses incurred as a result of another party's actions. The correct categorization of compensatory damages encompasses two distinct types: special damages and general damages.

Special damages refer to quantifiable losses that can be calculated and documented, such as medical expenses, property damage, and lost wages. These damages are awarded for specific monetary losses that can be precisely determined based on evidence presented in court.

General damages, on the other hand, account for non-monetary damages that are more subjective in nature, such as pain and suffering, emotional distress, and loss of enjoyment of life. These damages are typically not tied directly to a quantifiable amount but are assessed based on the impact of the injury on the plaintiff's quality of life.

This distinction allows for a comprehensive approach to compensation in tort actions, addressing both economic impacts and the more intangible effects of an injury, which is critical for achieving equitable restitution for the injured party. Thus, the statement emphasizes the proper framework for understanding compensatory damages within the context of Nevada Casualty Law.