What is the purpose of punitive damages in tort law?

Punitive damages serve a specific purpose in tort law that extends beyond merely compensating the victim for their losses. Their primary aim is to deter the defendant and others from engaging in behavior that may warrant similar wrongful conduct in the future. By imposing a financial penalty that significantly exceeds mere compensation for damages, punitive damages send a strong message about the seriousness of the defendant's actions and the legal system's disapproval of such conduct.

Rather than addressing direct losses incurred by the victim, punitive damages focus on providing a financial punishment that aims to prevent recurrence of the harmful actions, thereby reinforcing societal norms and promoting accountability. This creates a deterrent effect on the individual offender and serves as a warning to others who might contemplate similar actions, contributing to the overall objectives of tort law in maintaining public order and safety.