If you or someone you know has a personal injury claim in Houston, it is advisable to consult with an experienced local Houston attorney who specializes in personal injury law to understand the potential damages related to your specific case. Ceja Law Firm, PLLC can help you navigate the range of compensation you might be entitled to if you have been the victim of a personal injury accident.
Generally speaking, in personal injury law, damages are typically classified into two categories:
- 1) Economic Damages (or Special Damages):
- Medical expenses: This includes past medical bills and estimated future medical costs.
- Lost wages: If the injury caused the victim to miss work or reduced their earning capacity, they could be compensated for lost income and future earning potential.
- Property damage: If any personal property was damaged during the incident, you could be entitled to its repair or replacement value.
- Other financial losses: Any other out-of-pocket expenses directly related to the injury.
- 2) Non-Economic Damages (or General Damages):
- Pain and suffering: This refers to the physical and emotional distress caused by the injury. It can be more subjective and harder to quantify than economic damages.
- Loss of consortium: This refers to damages awarded for the detrimental effects an injury has on the relationship between the injured person and their spouse. It covers things like affection, comfort, companionship, and sexual relations.
- Disfigurement or physical impairment: If the injury results in lasting physical changes or disabilities.
- Reduced quality of life: Damages awarded for a decline in a person’s ability to enjoy life as they did before the injury.
There is also a third type of damages that might apply in specific cases:
- 3) Punitive Damages: These are not awarded to compensate the victim but to punish the defendant and deter similar behavior in the future. They are only awarded in cases where the defendant’s actions were especially malicious or reckless.
There are certain laws that apply specifically in Texas that relate to damages and compensation:
- Modified Comparative Fault: Texas follows the modified comparative fault rule, which means that if the injured party is found to be partially at fault for their injury, their damage award can be reduced by their percentage of fault. If they are more than 50% at fault, they are unable to recover any damages.
- Statute of Limitations: The general rule In Texas is that a personal injury lawsuit must be filed within two years from the date of the injury.
Takeaway
If you or a loved one is grappling with a personal injury claim in Houston, it is absolutely crucial to seek guidance from a seasoned personal injury attorney who possesses an in-depth understanding of the potential damages and compensation that may be rightfully yours. The journey toward recovery and justice begins with the right legal support. Don’t hesitate to reach out to Ceja Law Firm, PLLC today to schedule your complimentary initial consultation. Our dedicated team is ready to listen to your story, assess the unique details of your case, and advocate for your rights.
