Types of Car Accident Damages in Texas

Compensatory damages are designed to compensate an injured party for the losses they have suffered due to a car accident. These damages can include medical expenses, lost wages, property damage, and pain and suffering. Compensatory damages are intended to make the injured party “whole” again by providing them with financial compensation for their losses.

Punitive damages are designed to punish wrongdoers for their actions and deter similar behavior in the future. Punitive damages may be awarded if it is found that the at-fault driver acted recklessly or with gross negligence. Punitive damages can be much higher than compensatory damages and are not available in all states. In Texas, punitive damages may only be awarded if it is proven that the defendant acted with malice or fraud.

Compensatory Damages

Compensatory damages are intended to replace money lost by collision victims due to an accident. These damages are designed to make the victim whole again and can include a variety of costs associated with the accident. Medical expenses are one of the most common types of compensatory damages, as they cover any medical bills incurred as a result of the accident. This includes doctor visits, hospital stays, surgeries, physical therapy, medications, and ambulance fees. Lost wages are another type of compensatory damage that can be awarded in cases where time spent recovering from an injury prevents a person from earning a living. This can include time spent keeping doctor’s appointments, attending physical therapy sessions, staying in the hospital, and recovering at home.

Compensatory damages are meant to provide financial relief for those who have suffered losses due to an accident. They are designed to put victims back in the same position they were before the incident occurred and provide them with compensation for their losses. While these damages cannot undo what has happened or take away any pain or suffering endured by victims, they can help alleviate some of the financial burden caused by an accident. Compensatory damages can also help ensure that those responsible for causing an accident are held accountable for their actions and that victims.

Punitive Damages

Punitive damages are a form of compensation awarded to victims of accidents caused by the gross negligence or malicious behavior of another driver. These damages are intended to punish the defendant and discourage them from engaging in similar conduct in the future. In Texas, punitive damages are capped and only awarded when there is clear evidence that the other driver acted with malice or gross negligence.

For example, if a driver was found guilty of road rage, they may be liable for punitive damages. This is because their reckless behavior posed an unreasonable risk to other drivers on the road and could have resulted in serious injury or death. Punitive damages can help to make up for any financial losses suffered by the victim as a result of the accident, while also providing some measure of justice for their suffering.

Determining a Settlement Amount

When it comes to determining a fair settlement amount for a vehicle accident, it is important to seek the assistance of an experienced attorney. An experienced attorney can help you understand the legal process and ensure that you receive the compensation you deserve.

Talk to a Lawyer

An experienced accident lawyer in Harris County, Galveston County, Fort Bend County, Montgomery County, Brazoria County, Houston, Sugar Land, Missouri City, and Stafford, Texas at Thornton Esquire Law Group, PLLC, can help you with your accident case. Contact us today at www.thorntonesquirelawgroup.com for a free consultation.