Corpus Christi Personal Injury Lawsuits
The Moss Law Firm possesses extensive personal injury litigation experience in the Corpus Christi, Texas area. Our attorneys guide clients through the arduous process of filing injury litigation in the state of Texas, as well as negotiating personal injury settlements that can help avoid lengthy, stressful trials.
Personal injury litigation
There are several things you should do in order to successfully file a Corpus Christi personal injury lawsuit.
Unless you wish to file a formal claim against a government entity, there is no one step absolutely required to obtain a fair settlement. However, the following actions may ease the filing process and increase your chances of obtaining a fair settlement:
- Record as much as you can about the accident, including injuries and any other losses (such as income) that you have suffered
- Document all conversations related to the accident or injuries
- Preserve all physical evidence and photographs related to the cause of the accident and the damage done
- Locate all potential witnesses
- Notify the parties you believe responsible for the accident of your intention to file a personal injury claim
Speedy action increases your chances of receiving a quick and fair settlement. Also, if the accident was at least partially caused by a government entity or employee, a formal claim must be filed within a short time of your accident. The specific length of time varies by state.
Victims may also file personal injury claims for strict liability, if the case involves a defective product or drug. Personal injury claims can also be filed for intentional acts, in which the party responsible for the injury acted knowingly and willingly.
If you cannot reach a suitable settlement with the involved insurance companies, consider bringing a Corpus Christi personal injury lawsuit in small claims or other court. Be aware of the statutes of limitations that may limit the time in which you have to file. Texas gives you a limited amount of time to pursue a personal injury: two years from the date of loss, in most instances.
Personal injury settlements
A personal injury settlement is a monetary payment given to the victim of a personal injury loss, in exchange for which the plaintiff releases the legal claim for damages against the responsible party. Such settlements are usually awarded for an injury or loss involving any or all of the following:
- Bodily injury
- Past or future medical expenses
- Mental anguish
- Pain
- Suffering
- Lost wages
A Corpus Christi personal injury settlement usually includes compensatory or other damages and may include punitive damages if reckless conduct was involved. Damages are intended to place the victim in the same monetary position in which they were prior to the accident.
In some Corpus Christi personal injury settlements, such as malpractice cases, non-economic damages (such as pain and suffering awards) may be capped. If willful or malicious negligence is involved, punitive damages may also be included in personal injury settlements.
To receive a personal injury settlement, the plaintiff must prove:
- The defendant bore legal responsibility for the injury
- Damages were caused by the accident
Many personal injury claims are negotiated outside of the court system. In most such cases, the defendant or his/her insurance company initially offers a very low amount of compensation. It is, therefore, important to seek an experienced Corpus Christi personal injury attorney who can protect and maximize your interests.
