The costs associated with treating unanticipated injuries can add up quickly. In addition to direct expenses like hospital bills and prescription copays, there are indirect costs such as lost income and alternative transportation to consider.
Fortunately, accident victims who have grounds for a personal injury claim may not have to worry about covering these expenses out of pocket. The parties responsible for their injuries may be liable for all applicable damages including medical expenses, lost wages, and even non-economic damages like pain and suffering. These are called “compensatory damages” because they are intended to make claimants whole again by reimbursing them for all economic and non-economic losses.
All payouts that result from successful personal injury claims include compensatory damages. In some cases, though, the injured party may also be entitled to punitive damages, which are intended to punish the defendant for particularly egregious behavior and to deter similar misconduct in the future.
If you were hurt in a preventable accident and think the incident warrants punitive damages, contact the personal injury lawyers at Coxwell & Associates. Our strategic legal team will review the circumstances of your case to determine the types of damages you may be able to recover.
We will then gather the evidence needed to prove liability so we can help you negotiate for a fair settlement. Call (601) 265-7766 to schedule a case evaluation with a Jackson personal injury attorney.
Read on to learn more about punitive damages awards in Mississippi:
When Are Punitive Damages Recoverable in Mississippi?
In Mississippi, claimants may be entitled to punitive damages if they can prove that the liable party acted with malice or gross negligence that demonstrated an intentional disregard for their safety. Drunk driving accidents and hit-and-run collisions are two examples of scenarios in which injured parties may be entitled to punitive awards. Cases involving fraud may also constitute punitive damages.
Are There Caps on Punitive Damages in Mississippi?
In 2004, Mississippi implemented tort reform to prevent frivolous lawsuits and reduce unreasonably large settlements. These amendments included caps on punitive damages, making Mississippi one of the first states to have such limits, according to the Clarion Ledger.
Today, punitive damages are typically limited to a percentage of the defendant’s net worth. For example, if the liable party’s net worth is less than $50 million, the claimant may recover a punitive award that is no more than 2 percent of it.
For defendants whose net worth is between $50 million and $100 million, total punitive obligations cannot exceed $2.5 million. This cap is on a sliding scale and increases with net worth.
Discuss Your Case with an Accident Attorney in Jackson
If you sustained serious injuries because of someone else’s reckless or negligent behavior, turn to Coxwell & Associates. We have won nearly $300 million for our valued clients in successful settlements and verdicts. Call (601) 265-7766 or click on the button below to schedule a consultation with one of our compassionate personal injury attorneys in Jackson.
Disclaimer: This blog is intended as general information purposes only, and is not a substitute for legal advice. Anyone with a legal problem should consult a lawyer immediately.