If you were injured in an accident that was caused by someone else’s negligence, then you could be entitled to recover compensation from the at-fault party. It is critical to consult with an experienced injury attorney, who can handle every aspect of your case, including the insurance claims process, while you focus on your recovery.
A seasoned personal injury attorney will have the knowledge and resources to help you pursue the compensation you are entitled to. Once you have retained an attorney, there are a few things you should do to prepare for your first meeting.
What Should I Bring to My First Meeting with My Attorney?
Your attorney will probably ask you to bring certain documents to your first meeting. In general, you should bring the following items. These documents will help your attorney get started on your claim:
- Medical records and bills
- Accident or police reports
- Photos and video evidence from the scene and pictures of your injuries
- Insurance information
- Documentation detailing missed work and lost wages
Your attorney may also request additional documentation from you, depending on the circumstances of your case.
What Types of Compensation Could I Recover?
If another party is found to be liable for your injuries, you could be eligible to recover compensation from them. There are three main types of compensation you can receive for your injuries in Texas: economic damages, non-economic damages, and punitive damages.
Economic Damages
Economic damages refer to financial losses you incurred due to the accident. Some common forms of economic damages include:
- Medical expenses — You could obtain compensation for present and future medical costs, including hospital bills, hospital meals and lodging, psychiatric care, rehabilitative care, surgery costs, prescription medical expenses, and other costs associated with your treatment and recovery.
- Lost income — As other expenses pile up, losing your source of income can be a substantial financial burden. If you cannot return to work while you are recovering from your injuries, you might be able to recover compensation for lost income.
- Lost earning potential — If you cannot perform all of your job duties as you did before the accident, you could claim compensation for lost earning potential.
- Property damage — If your personal property was damaged due to the accident, you could claim compensation for property damage. For example, if your car was damaged in a car accident caused by the at-fault party, you could seek compensation for vehicle repairs.
Non-economic Damages
Non-economic damages are intangible, non-financial losses incurred due to an accident. They are sometimes referred to as “pain and suffering.” Some common types of non-economic damages include:
- Physical pain
- Emotional distress
- Mental anguish
- Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)
- Loss of enjoyment of life
- Loss of consortium
Punitive Damages
The third type of damages is known as punitive damages, though punitive damages are only awarded in very specific cases where the defendant behaved in a fraudulent, malicious, or grossly negligent manner. Punitive damages are designed to punish the at-fault party and deter similar actions in the future.
How Willie Powells Could Help
Attorney Willie Powells is a powerhouse injury attorney. Law Offices of Willie Powells III and Associates, PLLC has represented people throughout Houston, Texas who were injured in accidents through no fault of their own. He will vigorously defend your rights, advocate for your interests, and help you pursue the compensation you are entitled to.
Don’t miss the opportunity to hold the at-fault party accountable for their actions. Call us today at (713) 360-0062 or contact us online for a free, no-risk consultation.