What is the primary difference between general and special damages?

The primary difference between general and special damages lies in the nature of the injuries and losses they cover. General damages refer to compensation for intangible injuries, which may include pain and suffering, emotional distress, loss of consortium, or any non-monetary impact resulting from an incident. These damages are inherently subjective and aren't easily quantifiable or assigned a specific monetary value.

In contrast, special damages pertain to tangible expenses that can be calculated and documented, such as medical bills, lost wages, property damage, and other specific financial losses incurred as a direct result of an incident. Special damages are typically easier to determine because they involve clear financial figures that can be substantiated with receipts and invoices.

This understanding helps clarify the impact of general and special damages in legal and insurance contexts. Recognizing the distinction is crucial when assessing a personal injury claim, as it influences how damages are computed and argued in court. Therefore, the answer correctly identifies that general damages relate to intangible injuries, while special damages are linked to tangible expenses.