If you suffered an injury in a car crash or another type of accident, you may be entitled to recover damages. Many people do not know how much their case is worth because calculating available damages can be difficult. As a result, they often end up accepting lowball settlement offers that do not even come close to covering the expenses and the lasting consequences that result from the accident.
Figuring out a damages demand involves not just adding up the money spent so far but also predicting future costs and losses. An experienced attorney knows how to use professional resources to determine a fair amount to demand in settlement negotiations or litigation.
Expenses and Lost Earnings
Texas law intends damages awards for accident victims to compensate them for financial and other losses that stem from their injuries. For many, the top item among such expenses includes the costs of medical treatments, including therapies, prescriptions, assistive devices, and diagnostic studies. Injuries can also affect earning ability. Some people have to miss days from work because of pain or for regular treatments. Others may not be able to return to work at all.
Non-Monetary Losses
If you were in an accident, chances are your injuries did not result in just financial loss. Victims may experience physical pain for extended times, as well as emotional distress. Some find their relationships with spouses and children suffer due to their health conditions. These damages can be harder to assess, yet they also deserve compensation.
Exemplary Damages
In some rare cases, a court may also award punitive, or exemplary damages. In the event of a car accident, such damages may only be available if the driver at fault caused the accident by extremely risky behavior, such as driving while intoxicated or purposely speed racing. Mere carelessness, even extreme carelessness, is generally not grounds for punitive damages, which serve to deter intentional bad behavior.
If you suffered injury due to an accident, avoid negotiating with insurance representatives. Instead, consult a knowledgeable lawyer who can work to recover the full amount of compensation available to you.
