Types of Damages You Can Recover in a Car Accident Case
If you’ve been in a car accident in Houston, you may be facing hospital bills, missed work, and emotional stress. You’re not alone—and you have legal options. At McCray Law Firm, we help clients across Texas recover damages after serious accidents. But what types of damages can you actually claim? Let’s break it down.
What Are Damages in a Car Accident Case?
In legal terms, “damages” means the money you may be awarded to help you recover from your losses. These losses may be physical, financial, or emotional. A personal injury claim helps you get compensation for what the accident cost you.
Economic Damages: Tangible Losses You Can Prove
Economic damages are the easiest to track. These include anything you’ve spent money on—or lost—because of the accident. You can usually show proof through receipts, bills, or pay stubs.
The most common economic damages include:
- Medical expenses, including emergency room visits, hospital stays, rehab, and medication
- Lost wages, if you missed work because of the accident
- Property damage, like car repairs or a totaled vehicle
- Ongoing care, like physical therapy or in-home help
These costs add up fast. That’s why it’s important to keep all your records and let an experienced attorney calculate the total.
Non-Economic Damages: The Emotional and Physical Toll
Some losses are harder to measure, but just as important. Non-economic damages reflect the personal suffering caused by the accident.
For example, many clients experience:
- Pain and suffering from injuries
- Emotional distress, like anxiety or PTSD
- Loss of enjoyment in daily activities or hobbies
- Disfigurement or permanent disability
You may not have receipts for these things, but they affect your life deeply. A strong legal team can help you show how the accident changed your day-to-day life.
What About Punitive Damages?
In some cases, you may also qualify for punitive damages. These are not based on your losses, but on the other driver’s behavior.
If the driver was drunk, texting, or driving aggressively, a court might award punitive damages to punish them and prevent others from doing the same. Texas courts take this seriously, especially in cases of gross negligence.
How a Lawyer Helps You Recover More
Insurance companies don’t always offer fair settlements. They may try to lowball you or ignore non-economic damages altogether. That’s why working with a lawyer makes a big difference.
At McCray Law Firm, we:
- Review all your medical and financial records
- Gather evidence like police reports, photos, and witness statements
- Negotiate directly with insurance companies
- Represent you in court if necessary
Our goal is to make sure you don’t leave money on the table.
Don’t Miss the Deadline
In Texas, you usually have two years from the date of the accident to file a personal injury lawsuit. Waiting too long can cost you everything. It’s always best to talk to a personal injury lawyer early to protect your rights.
You Deserve a Full Recovery
After a car accident, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed. You may not know how much your case is worth or how to deal with insurance adjusters. That’s where we come in.
McCray Law Firm is here to help Houston families get the support they need. We focus on car accident cases, and we fight for full and fair compensation.
Let us review your case and explain what kinds of damages you can recover. Your first consultation is free, and there’s no fee unless we win.
Don’t wait. Contact McCray Law Firm today and get the guidance you need to move forward.
FAQ: Damages in Car Accident Cases
- Can I still recover damages if I was partly at fault for the accident?
Yes. Texas follows a modified comparative fault rule. As long as you were less than 51% at fault, you can still recover damages. However, your compensation may be reduced by your percentage of fault. - What if I don’t feel injured right away—can I still claim damages later?
Yes, but you should seek medical attention immediately. Some injuries, like whiplash or internal damage, don’t show up right away. Documenting your symptoms early helps protect your right to compensation. - Are there limits to how much I can recover in non-economic damages?
Texas law does not generally cap non-economic damages in car accident claims, unless the case involves medical malpractice. However, proving pain and suffering requires strong supporting evidence. - What documents do I need to support my claim?
Helpful documents include medical records, police reports, repair estimates, photos of injuries and vehicle damage, and pay stubs showing lost income. A lawyer can help you gather and organize this information. - How long does it take to get a settlement?
It depends on the complexity of your case. Some claims settle in a few months; others may take a year or more, especially if they go to court. Having legal representation helps move things forward efficiently.