What Are Punitive Damages in New York State?

FREE CASE EVALUATION

  • We’ll win or it’s free.
  • 200+ 5 Star Reviews
  • 5000+ Cases Prepared for Trial

What Are Punitive Damages in New York State?

When someone is injured due to the negligence of another party, they will often hire a New York City personal injury lawyer to fight for the financial compensation they need to heal. However, in certain rare cases, financial compensation is insufficient, particularly when the defendant exhibited morally reprehensible behavior in the process of causing the injury. Please continue reading and speak with our knowledgeable New York City personal injury lawyer to learn more about the difference between punitive damages and compensatory damages. Here are some of the questions you may have:

What is the difference between punitive damages and compensatory damages?

In most personal injury claims, those who’ve been wrongly injured in an accident (the plaintiffs) will sue the defendants or their insurance companies for their injuries. These damages are to help the plaintiff recover compensation to help cover the cost of their medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering, and more. On the other punitive damages are not awarded to the plaintiff, and instead, they are awarded to punish the defendant for his or her actions. That being said, to win a personal injury claim, an individual will have to prove that they were injured as a direct result of another party’s negligence. However, to be awarded punitive damages, proving negligence is not enough–you will have to prove willful and wanton negligence on the part of the defendant, or that the defendant showed a complete disregard for your safety. That being said, each case is unique, so you must hire an experienced New York City personal injury lawyer who can assess your case and determine the best route forward.

How long will I have to file a claim for an injury in New York State?

When someone is injured due to the negligence of another party, it is critical that they abide by the state’s statute of limitations. The statute of limitations is essentially the window of time that injured parties have to take legal action against the party responsible. If you were injured in an accident in New York State, you will have to take legal action against the liable party within three years of the date of your accident. Failing to do so will most likely relinquish your right to sue. The sooner you bring your claim to our firm’s attention, the better off you will be. We are ready to assist you today.

CONTACT OUR EXPERIENCED NEW YORK CITY FIRM

Our entire legal team is dedicated to providing the advice you need and the personalized attention you deserve. If you have been injured due to another party’s negligence, call 212-421-0300 or fill out our contact form to schedule a free consultation with a New York City personal injury lawyer. You may be entitled to financial compensation, which can help you on your road to recovery.

Recent Blog Posts

The Role of Surveillance Footage in Slip and Fall Cases
One of the best ways to prove negligence in a slip and fall injury claim is through surveillance footage. Please continue reading and reach out to a dedicated Bronx slip… Read More
What Qualities Should I Look for in a Slip and Fall Lawyer?
When seeking legal representation, particularly in slip and fall injury cases, the lawyer you hire to represent you can make a world of difference. Please continue reading to learn more… Read More
Recovering Compensation Following a Supermarket Accident in NYC
Very few people ever dream of getting injured in a supermarket, especially since they are seen as such mundane aspects of our lives. However, if you have been involved in… Read More
What are the Best Types of Evidence for Proving a Slip and Fall Accident Claim?
In the bustling heart of New York City, where the pace never slows, slip and fall accidents are, unfortunately, far from common. That said, if you've been injured in a… Read More
How Do Parking Lot Accidents Happen?
Though you may not consider parking lots to be very dangerous, the fact of the matter is parking lot accidents occur every single day, and if you've been injured in… Read More
What You Need to Know About Stairwell Accidents in NYC
Many of us have taken a spill down a stairwell at least once in our lives. In most cases, such a fall simply results in some bruises and scrapes, but… Read More
The Role of Surveillance Footage in Slip and Fall Cases
One of the best ways to prove negligence in a slip and fall injury claim is through surveillance footage. Please continue reading and reach out to a dedicated Bronx slip… Read More
What Qualities Should I Look for in a Slip and Fall Lawyer?
When seeking legal representation, particularly in slip and fall injury cases, the lawyer you hire to represent you can make a world of difference. Please continue reading to learn more… Read More
Recovering Compensation Following a Supermarket Accident in NYC
Very few people ever dream of getting injured in a supermarket, especially since they are seen as such mundane aspects of our lives. However, if you have been involved in… Read More
What are the Best Types of Evidence for Proving a Slip and Fall Accident Claim?
In the bustling heart of New York City, where the pace never slows, slip and fall accidents are, unfortunately, far from common. That said, if you've been injured in a… Read More
How Do Parking Lot Accidents Happen?
Though you may not consider parking lots to be very dangerous, the fact of the matter is parking lot accidents occur every single day, and if you've been injured in… Read More
What You Need to Know About Stairwell Accidents in NYC
Many of us have taken a spill down a stairwell at least once in our lives. In most cases, such a fall simply results in some bruises and scrapes, but… Read More

MEMBERSHIPS AND AWARDS

Trial Lawyers University
Car Accident Lawyer

THE LAW OFFICE OF RICHARD M. KENNY

Whether you need a car accident lawyer, slip and fall lawyer or legal representation for any type of accident, the NYC personal injury lawyers at The Law Office of Richard M. Kenny can help. Located in New York City, we've helped thousands of individuals throughout the Bronx, Brooklyn (Kings County), Manhattan, Queens and Nassau County recover the compensation they need to receive proper medical care, treatment and quality of life after serious injury.

FREE CASE EVALUATION

If you've been injured due to the negligence or wrong-doing of another, we can provide you and your loved ones with the legal support needed to ensure proper medical attention, long-term treatment and fair, reasonable financial compensation is received for your personal injury. The initial consultation is always free. For immediate assistance, call (212) 421-0300.

"*" indicates required fields

TRANSIT INFORMATION:

34 St. - Herald Sq (0.13 mi)
St. - Penn Station (0.17 mi)
34 St. - Penn Station (0.35 mi)