Simple English definitions for legal terms
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Term: DAMAGE
Definition: Damage refers to harm or loss caused to a person or property. It can be physical or financial. When someone is hurt or something is broken, it is considered damage. If someone is responsible for causing the damage, they may have to pay money to fix it or compensate for the loss. This is called a damage claim or damages. Negligence can also result in damage that can be legally pursued.
Damage (adj.) refers to monetary compensation that is given to someone who has suffered loss or injury to their person or property. This compensation is usually awarded in a legal setting, such as a court of law.
Damage (n.) refers to the actual loss or injury that has been suffered by a person or their property. This loss or injury can be the result of negligence or other harmful actions.
Example 1: John was in a car accident and suffered injuries to his back and neck. He filed a damage claim with the other driver's insurance company to receive compensation for his medical bills and lost wages.
Example 2: The storm caused significant damage to the roof of Sarah's house, resulting in leaks and water damage. She filed a damage claim with her homeowner's insurance company to cover the cost of repairs.
These examples illustrate how damage can refer to both the compensation awarded for loss or injury (damage claim) and the actual loss or injury itself (car accident injuries, storm damage to a house).