Experiencing a car accident in Texas can be a traumatic and disruptive event. Besides the immediate shock and potential injuries, the aftermath often involves dealing with various financial burdens caused by the accident.
Understanding what types of costs you might receive compensation for can help you manage the financial impact more effectively.
Medical expenses
One of the primary costs associated with car accidents is medical expenses. These can include ambulance fees, emergency room visits, hospital stays, surgeries, medications, and any ongoing treatments like physical therapy. Texas allows accident victims to claim these expenses as part of their compensation. You should keep detailed records and receipts of all medical treatments related to the accident to support your claim.
Lost wages and earning capacity
If your injuries prevent you from working, you can also claim compensation for lost wages. This includes the income you would have earned had the accident not occurred. If the injuries have long-term effects on your ability to work or force you to take a lower-paying job, you might be eligible to claim for loss of earning capacity. Documenting your earnings and employment information is important for substantiating these claims.
Property damage and other losses
Compensation for property damage primarily covers the cost of repairing or replacing your vehicle. However, it can also include compensation for personal items damaged in the crash, such as phones, laptops, and clothing. Additionally, you might be eligible for compensation for transportation costs if you need to rent a car while yours is being repaired.
Pain and suffering
Beyond tangible costs, you can claim compensation for pain and suffering. This includes physical discomfort and emotional distress caused by the accident. Calculating pain and suffering can be complex, as it doesn’t have a direct financial cost associated with it. However, these damages are significant and reflect the personal impact of the accident on your life.
Knowing what types of losses you can claim can help you navigate the aftermath of an accident more effectively. Keep detailed records of all related expenses to ensure that you receive the compensation you deserve.