Damages
If you have suffered an injury as the result of someone else’s negligent or malicious actions, then you may have the right to claim damages. The term “damages” refers to monetary compensation that one is awarded after a successful personal injury claim. They serve to reimburse one for medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering, and damaged or lost property. Damages may also be used to reform the wrongdoer.
Compensatory Damages
Compensatory, or actual, damages serve the purpose of reimbursing the injured party for his or her losses. This includes all physical, emotional, and property losses including:
- Medical bills
- Pain and suffering
- Lost wages
- Damaged property
- Loss of profits
The above damages are divided into two different categories: general and special damages. General damages cover all pain and suffering losses, such as loss of a loved one or loss of life expectancy. Special damages cover physical, out-of-pocket expensed such as accrued medical bills.
Punitive Damages
Punitive damages do not serve the purpose of reimbursing the injured party for his or her losses, although this compensation will be awarded to the hurt individual. The goal behind punitive damages is that they deter the person or party at fault from taking the same, harmful course of action in the future.
Contact Us
If you would like to learn more about the damages you may be able to recover for your injury, then Austin personal injury lawyer Vic Feazell can help. Contact him today at 877-948-4842 to discuss your legal rights and options.
