How Much Compensation Can You Get After a Car Accident?
The aftermath of a car accident brings not just physical injuries but also financial hardship. As medical expenses accumulate and the ability to earn a living gets challenging, the question of the amount of compensation you may be eligible to recover is important for recovery. The amount of compensation car accident victims can receive varies significantly, influenced by the severity of injuries, the extent of property damage, and the overall impact on quality of life. It encompasses tangible economic losses, including medical bills and lost earnings, as well as intangible non-economic damages like pain, suffering, and emotional distress.
In Texas, there’s essentially no cap on the economic and non-economic you can seek following a car accident when you take your case to court. However, Texas does place a ceiling on the exemplary (punitive) damages that can be awarded, which are used to punish the defendant for their actions. At The Law Firm of Chaile Allen, we work hard to seek the full compensation you deserve so that you focus on recovery.
Seeking Compensation After a Car Accident
In Texas, every driver must maintain obligatory minimum insurance coverage: at least $30,000 for individual injuries per incident, with a total of $60,000 per accident and $25,000 for property damage. However, in scenarios involving accidents with multiple vehicles, these minimum coverage amounts might not fully cover the damages and injuries you’ve incurred.
Should this happen, you might consider filing a personal injury case against the motorist responsible for the accident. However, there’s a possibility that the at-fault driver may not possess the financial means to cover the additional damages you’re seeking. This situation illustrates how the compensation you receive can be constrained by the at-fault party’s liability insurance coverage, as insurance companies are not obligated to pay beyond the limits of the policy.
Uninsured motorist coverage is used to protect you in these situations, compensating you for damages if you’re hit by someone who lacks insurance. Insurance providers are obligated to offer this type of coverage to you. Should you decide not to opt for uninsured motorist coverage, you’re required to inform your insurance company through a written notice.
Filing a Lawsuit Against the At-Fault Motorist
Texas follows the modified comparative fault rule, allowing victims involved in a car accident to receive compensation as long as they are found to be less than 51% responsible for the incident. However, if your fault exceeds 50%, you lose the right to claim damages.
In instances where you share some of the blame for the accident and are granted damages, the total amount you’re eligible to receive will be adjusted based on your degree of liability. For example, if it’s determined that you were 40% responsible for the accident, and the total damages amount to $100,000, your compensation would be decreased by 40%, leaving you with $60,000.
How Much Compensation Can You Get After a Car Accident?
The compensation you may seek after a car collision is influenced by various factors, particularly the severity of injuries. Overall, the more serious the injuries, the higher the potential value of your case. Several key aspects are evaluated to assess the severity of your injuries, including:
- Whether your injuries are permanent
- The duration your injury is expected to affect you
- How your injuries impact your earning capacity
- The effect of your injuries on your daily life and well-being
- The anticipated costs of medical care for your injuries
Depending on the details of your claim, you may seek economic and non-economic damages such as medical expenses, lost income, property damages, pain and suffering, loss of consortium, and other losses.
Speak With the Car Accident Lawyer at The Law Firm of Chaile Allen
If you’ve been involved in a car accident, obtaining full compensation for injuries and losses is essential for recovery and future well-being. Working with a dedicated car accident lawyer at The Law Firm of Chaile Allen increases the likelihood of obtaining a successful outcome. Choosing a small, local firm for your legal representation offers distinct advantages, including a personalized, hands-on approach that ensures your case receives the focused attention and tailored strategy it deserves.
With our deep understanding of local laws and the nuances of navigating the legal system, The Law Firm of Chaile Allen will meticulously advocate for your rights, guiding you through every step of the process. For a free consultation, call our office today at (325) 670-9282 or fill out a contact form.