What type of damages are awarded to punish the defendant exceeding simple compensation?

Punitive damages are awarded to punish a defendant for particularly egregious or reckless behavior and to deter others from similar conduct. Unlike compensatory damages, which are intended to make the injured party whole by compensating them for actual losses suffered, punitive damages go beyond mere compensation. They serve as a form of punishment to the wrongdoer and are typically awarded in cases involving gross negligence, willful misconduct, or deceit.

This type of damage is not commonly awarded in all cases but is reserved for situations where the defendant's actions are deemed not just harmful but also outrageously negligent or intentional. The primary aim of punitive damages is to send a message about the severity of the defendant's actions rather than simply compensating the victim for any losses incurred. In contrast, the other types of damages mentioned do not serve this punitive purpose.