What defines 'general damages'?

'General damages' refer to non-economic damages that are more complex and subjective in nature. They are intended to compensate an individual for intangible losses that are not easily quantifiable, such as pain and suffering, emotional distress, loss of consortium, and loss of enjoyment of life. Unlike economic damages, which can be calculated based on tangible losses like medical bills or lost wages, general damages require a more subjective assessment of the impact on the individual's life.

This complexity arises from the need to evaluate the personal effects of an injury or loss, which can vary significantly from one individual to another. Factors like the severity of the injury, the individual's circumstances, and the long-term effects all contribute to the assessment of general damages. Therefore, understanding that these damages are not straightforward and often involve personal judgment is essential in legal and insurance contexts.