Understanding Compensatory Damages in Tort Law

The video tutorial explains compensatory damages in tort law, which are meant to reimburse individuals for losses due to tortious conduct. These damages can be categorized differently across jurisdictions, including actual, consequential, and pain and suffering damages. The tutorial contrasts compensatory damages with punitive damages, which aim to punish the offender rather than compensate the victim.

What is the primary purpose of compensatory damages in tort law?

• To deter future misconduct

• To reward the plaintiff

• To compensate the plaintiff for their losses

• To punish the defendant

Which of the following is NOT a subcategory of compensatory damages?

• Pain and suffering

• Consequential damages

• Punitive damages

• Actual damages

How are consequential damages related to tortious conduct?

• They result directly from the tortious conduct

• They are awarded for emotional distress

• They are unrelated to tortious conduct

• They are a form of punishment for the defendant

What distinguishes punitive damages from compensatory damages?

• Punitive damages are awarded for physical injuries

• Punitive damages are a type of actual damages

• Punitive damages are intended to punish the defendant

• Punitive damages are meant to compensate the plaintiff

In what way do punitive damages serve a different purpose than compensatory damages?

• They are designed to punish the wrongdoer

• They focus on emotional recovery

• They are meant to cover medical expenses

• They aim to compensate for financial losses