There are all kinds of accidents that can occur and, as a result, there are many different levels of compensation that can be sought after suffering from someone else’s actions. In most cases, injured individuals will want to seek damages for medical bills related to an accident, reimbursement for lost wages from work and compensation for pain and suffering. What many injured victims don’t realize is that they may also be able to include punitive damages in a personal injury lawsuit.
What Are Punitive Damages?
Punitive damages are meant to serve as a punishment and a deterrent. Punitive damages are often sought in lawsuits that involve injuries caused by large organizations or companies as a way to send the message that the practices or standards that led to the injuries involved are not acceptable and must be changed. An example of a situation in which punitive damages might be sought could involve a company that does not provide regular safety inspections of its facilities. If an employee or visitor of such facilities is injured due to a collapsed roof, the injured individual may include punitive damages in his or her lawsuit. This is done to punish the company for its negligence and to send a message to the company and its industry that failing to provide regular, proper safety inspections will not be tolerated. The hope then is that standards will be raised across the board in order to avoid potential injuries to others in the future.
Should You Seek Punitive Damages?
Punitive damages should be sought if you and your attorney deem them necessary. As mentioned, these types of damages can provide for the greater good of everyone, so a frank discussion should be had with your attorney on a personal basis regarding the specifics of your case. Additionally, punitive damages are not to be taken lightly and not all cases will see punitive damages awarded. There are a variety of reasons why such damages would not be awarded, including frivolous claims, and seeking punitive damages may end up hurting your case and your credibility if they are unwarranted. It’s of vital importance to consult with a personal injury attorney before seeking such damages in order to maximize your potential for success and compensation.
Receive Answers from an Expert
In the Atlanta area and beyond, people turn to Eric J. Hertz, of the Hertz Law Firm, for experienced guidance when seeking punitive damages after an injury. Eric J. Hertz and his staff of legal experts provide professional representation and advice for individuals who have suffered injuries of all types, including dog bites, vehicular accident injuries, workplace injuries, slips and falls and more. Whether you’re considering filing a lawsuit to receive simple compensation for medical bills after an injury or you want to do your part to help others by seeking punitive damages, contact the Hertz Law Firm today by calling 404-577-8111 to see the difference Eric J. Hertz and his team can make in your life.