The studies of medical mistakes included cases where someone actually died or was crippled for life. So it doesn't make sense to me to think this applies only t

The studies of medical mistakes included cases where someone actually died or was crippled for life. So it doesn't make sense to me to think this applies only to minor incidents. My opinion: when someone sues for damages, they're looking not only to offset the harm they've suffered but also to ensure the same thing doesn't happen again. The first part depends on their circumstances—they may desperately need that money now. The second part may be satisfied entirely by a sincere apology, or the lack of an apology may underscore the importance of punitive damages.