3 Losses You Can be Compensated for After a Texas Car Crash

 Posted on March 27, 2022 in Car Accidents

The costs of being hit by a negligent driver can far exceed the value of your vehicle and medical bills. When you stop and think about every expense or financial loss you would not be dealing with if it were not for your car accident, it  probably adds up more than you might have initially realized. The good news is that you can recover damages for quite a few different types of losses. The car insurance company is not likely to make an offer that fully compensates you if you try to negotiate with them alone. Before you speak with an insurance company, be sure to speak with an attorney who can give you a better idea of what your claim might actually be worth. 

What Types of Damages Can I Recover After an Auto Accident?

You probably already know that you can recover the cost of your medical bills and the cost of repairing or totaling out your vehicle. You may also be able to recover: 

• Lost wages - If you had to take time away from work, you could recover the full amount of pay you lost. This can be a big deal for those who were kept away from work for a long period of time due to a long-term injury. In Texas, this can even include any income you will lose in the future. If you suffered permanent disability or had to change your career and are now getting paid less, these amounts may be compensable - and quite significant. 
• Pain and suffering - This includes both physical and emotional harm. The amount you could receive will depend on the nature and extent of your injuries. Future suffering can be factored in if you have a long-term painful injury. Emotional anguish can count as well. Car accidents can be frightening or even traumatic. Accident victims often struggle with concerns like anxiety, depression, or PTSD. Loss of enjoyment of life due to disability or disfigurement can be compensable as well.
• Punitive damages - These are less common. Punitive damages are intended to punish the at-fault driver if he was grossly negligent - behaving with a reckless disregard for the safety of others around him. This could include extremely reckless actions like driving while very intoxicated, street racing, or traveling at a dangerously high speed. 

Always speak with an attorney before accepting a settlement. You deserve to be compensated for the full amount of losses you suffered. 

Call a Dallas County Car Accident Lawyer

If you were hurt in a car accident, Jerry D. Andrews, P.C. may be able to recover damages on your behalf. Our knowledgeable Carrollton car accident attorneys can help you understand the types of damages that may be compensable. Call 214-221-5800 for a free consultation.

Source:

https://statutes.capitol.texas.gov/Docs/CP/htm/CP.41.htm