Compensatory and Punitive Damages

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Houston Personal Injury

When one is injured due to the negligence of others, the affects can be devastating. The victim is often left to wonder how the medical bills will get paid and when he or she will be able to function normally again, if ever. You may have the right to recover monetary damages for your injuries, lost wages, and medical bills. Seek the counsel of a personal injury lawyer to discuss your case. A personal injury lawyer will be able to give you an idea of what you can expect to receive for your injuries.

Damages a person may receive from a personal injury or wrongful death case fall under two main categories – compensatory and punitive damages.

Compensatory Damages

Compensatory damages are awarded based on the actual amount of harm one received. These damages are intended to restore the victim back to where they were before the accident happened. Some of the expenses and ailments compensatory damages covers include:

• Repairing or replacing damaged property
• Loss of wages
• Loss of ability to earn wages
• Pain & Suffering
• Medical bills
• Loss of any profits you were entitled to receive
• Mental impairment

Compensatory damages are awarded to the victim before punitive damages are considered.

Punitive Damages

Punitive damages are awarded by courts where the defendants conduct was found to be malicious, wanton, intentional or willful. Punitive damages are intended as a punishment for the defendant and also as a deterrent for others in committing the same type of crime. There are no maximum or minimum limits to punitive damages claims and they can be awarded in almost any type of personal injury case.

The amount of damages you are entitled to receive varies by case. A personal injury attorney can best advise you on how much your case may be worth. The type of accident, how severe the injuries are, and how much at fault you were, if at all, in the accident will all be factored in to how much you can expect to receive in damages. Contact our offices today to speak with an experienced personal injury lawyer about your claim. The lawyers at Carabin & Shaw work on a contingent fee basis, meaning you don’t pay unless we resolve your claim.