How are medical expenses categorized in relation to general damages?

Medical expenses fall under the category of special damages in tort law and insurance claims. Special damages refer to quantifiable economic losses that can be specifically calculated and documented. Medical expenses, such as bills for hospital treatment, rehabilitation, and ongoing care, have clear and objective monetary values, making them distinct from general damages.

General damages, on the other hand, encompass non-economic losses that are more subjective and may include pain and suffering, emotional distress, and loss of enjoyment of life. Since medical expenses can be clearly outlined and substantiated with receipts and invoices, they do not fit the criteria for general damages.

Different categories of damages serve important roles in assessing claims and compensation. Special damages allow for tangible recovery based on documented financial loss, whereas general damages offer compensation for more intangible hardships a claimant may experience as a result of an injury.