What is the maximum amount of damages that can be awarded in a personal injury lawsuit in Florida?
In Florida, the maximum amount of damages that can be awarded in a personal injury lawsuit varies depending on the type of damages being sought.
Compensatory damages, which are intended to compensate the injured party for losses sustained as a result of the injury, include economic damages and non-economic damages. Economic damages are losses that can be quantified, such as medical expenses, lost wages, and property damage, and there is no limit on the amount of economic damages that can be awarded in a personal injury lawsuit in Florida. Non-economic damages, which are intended to compensate the injured party for subjective losses such as pain and suffering and emotional distress, are capped at $500,000 in personal injury cases arising from medical malpractice, and at $750,000 in all other personal injury cases.
Punitive damages, which are intended to punish the defendant for particularly egregious or reckless behavior, are limited to three times the amount of compensatory damages or $500,000, whichever is greater. However, punitive damages can only be awarded if the plaintiff can prove that the defendant acted with intentional misconduct or gross negligence.
It is important to note that these limits on damages are subject to change, and that there may be exceptions or limitations depending on the specific circumstances of a given case. It is recommended that individuals seeking legal advice on personal injury cases in Florida consult with a licensed attorney to ensure that they fully understand their rights and options.