Personal injuries can have a devastating impact on your life, affecting your health, finances, and emotional well-being. If you’ve been injured due to someone else’s negligence, you may be entitled to recover economic damages.
But what exactly are economic damages, and how do they apply in Texas personal injury cases? This guide breaks it all down to help you understand your rights and options.
For personalized advice, please contact Attorney Tyler Monahan, partner at Turner-Monahan, PLLC, to discuss your case.
What Are Economic Damages?
Economic damages refer to the measurable financial losses you suffer as a result of an accident or injury. These damages are meant to reimburse you for expenses or income lost due to the incident. They are distinct from non-economic damages, which cover pain, suffering, and emotional distress.
In Texas, economic damages are a crucial part of personal injury lawsuits, and they are often awarded to ensure victims can recover financially from the harm caused.
Types of Economic Damages You Can Recover
Here are the most common types of economic damages that can be recovered in a Texas personal injury case:
1. Medical Expenses
Medical bills are often the most significant expense after an injury. Economic damages can cover:
- Emergency room visits
- Hospital stays
- Surgeries
- Prescription medications
- Physical therapy
- Ongoing medical care, such as rehabilitation or specialist visits
For example, if you’re involved in a car accident in Fort Worth, Texas, and require months of physical therapy, these costs could be included in your claim.
2. Lost Wages
If your injuries prevent you from working, you can recover compensation for:
- Lost income during your recovery period
- Future earning capacity if your ability to work is permanently affected
For instance, a construction worker injured on the job may need months off to recover, leading to a significant loss of wages. A workplace injury attorney can help calculate these losses.
3. Property Damage
Accidents often result in damage to personal property, such as vehicles, electronics, or clothing. Economic damages can include the cost of repairing or replacing these items.
For example, if you’ve been in a car crash in Texas, you can seek compensation for vehicle repairs through a car accident attorney.
4. Out-of-Pocket Expenses
These include any additional costs you incur as a result of the injury, such as:
- Transportation to medical appointments
- Hiring household help if you’re unable to perform daily tasks
- Assistive devices like wheelchairs or crutches
5. Funeral and Burial Costs
In wrongful death cases, economic damages may include funeral and burial expenses. A Texas wrongful death lawyer can assist families in pursuing these damages.
Factors That Impact Economic Damages in Texas
Several factors can influence the amount of economic damages awarded:
- Severity of Injuries: More severe injuries often result in higher medical costs and longer recovery periods.
- Type of Accident: Truck accidents, construction site injuries, and medical malpractice cases may involve more extensive damages.
- Insurance Policies: The at-fault party’s insurance coverage can impact how much compensation you receive.
- Comparative Fault: Texas follows a modified comparative fault rule, which means your damages could be reduced if you are partially at fault for the accident.
Examples of Economic Damages in Real Cases
- Slip and Fall: A slip and fall in a grocery store that leads to a broken hip may involve medical bills, lost wages, and out-of-pocket expenses for mobility aids.
- Car Crash: A Texas car crash involving multiple vehicles could result in medical expenses, property damage, and lost wages.
- Workplace Injury: A construction accident may lead to significant medical bills and lost future earning capacity due to permanent disability.
How to Prove Economic Damages
To recover economic damages, you must provide evidence to support your claim. This can include:
- Medical Bills: Detailed records of all healthcare-related expenses
- Pay Stubs or Tax Returns: To calculate lost wages or future earnings
- Repair Estimates: For property damage
- Receipts: For out-of-pocket expenses
- Expert Testimony: Financial experts can provide calculations for future losses, such as reduced earning capacity
An experienced personal injury law firm can guide you through the process of gathering and presenting this evidence.
Why You Need a Personal Injury Lawyer
Navigating a personal injury lawsuit in Texas can be complex. Hiring the best personal injury lawyers ensures you have the expertise and support needed to maximize your compensation. Attorneys specializing in cases like car accidents, slip and falls, and medical malpractice can:
- Handle negotiations with insurance companies
- Build a strong case with compelling evidence
- Represent you in court if necessary
If you’re searching for an accident attorney in Fort Worth, Texas, or need assistance from a motorcycle accident lawyer, don’t hesitate to seek legal help.
Turner Monahan PLLC – Here to Support You
At Turner Monahan, our experienced injury lawyers are here to help you recover the economic damages you deserve. Whether you need a car crash lawyer in Texas, a premises liability lawyer, or a medical malpractice lawyer, we have the expertise to guide you through the legal process.
Don’t let financial stress overwhelm you after an accident, we’re here to help you every step of the way. Schedule a free, no-obligation consultation with attorney Tyler Monahan to discuss the details.
Disclaimer
The commentary and opinions are for informational and educational purposes only and not to provide legal advice. You should contact an attorney in your state to obtain legal advice concerning any particular issue or problem. You can become a client and enter the attorney-client privilege only after hiring Turner-Monahan, PPLC, by signing a written retainer agreement.
