What is the term for damages that are awarded for non-economic losses such as pain and suffering?

The term for damages awarded for non-economic losses like pain and suffering is general damages. Unlike special damages, which refer to quantifiable losses such as medical expenses or lost wages, general damages encompass compensation for more subjective harms. This includes emotional distress, loss of enjoyment of life, and pain and suffering that do not have a direct monetary value but are nonetheless significant impacts on a person's life following an injury.

Understanding this distinction is crucial for grasping how personal injury cases are assessed and the types of damages that may be sought by the injured party. General damages are often awarded to ensure that the injured party is compensated for the intangible effects of their injuries.