Pain and Suffering Damages

Pain and Suffering Damages

Money awarded to a plaintiff in a lawsuit to compensate for physical or mental distress associated with a claim. For example, a person injured in an automobile accident may sue for the cost of medical bills, lost income and an additional amount (determined by the plaintiff) for pain and suffering. While the plaintiff may request these damages, juries have a great deal of leeway in determining how much to award. Additionally, some jurisdictions place limits on the amount of pain and suffering damages.