What type of damages may include compensation for loss of companionship?

Non-economic damages are meant to compensate for intangible losses that are not easily quantifiable in monetary terms. Loss of companionship, which refers to the emotional suffering and loss of support that one person experiences due to the injury or death of a loved one, falls squarely within this category. Unlike economic damages, which cover quantifiable losses like medical expenses or lost wages, non-economic damages account for subjective experiences such as pain, suffering, emotional distress, and loss of companionship. This makes them essential in cases where the impact of an injury extends beyond mere financial loss, reflecting the value of relationships and the emotional impact of significant life changes.

In contrast, special damages refer specifically to economic losses that can be calculated and quantified, punitive damages are intended to punish wrongful conduct and deter its future occurrence, and property damages involve compensation for the repair or replacement of physical items or property. These categories do not address the emotional and relational aspects captured by non-economic damages.