Punitive Damages in Ventura Car Accident Cases: What Are They and Can You Get Them

By now, most drivers and their families in Ventura know a little bit about the basics of compensation in Ventura car accident cases. They know that when a serious car accident happens in Ventura, the injured person may be entitled to compensation for medical bills, lost income, and pain and suffering (these are known as compensatory damages). However, fewer people in Ventura likely know about a category of damages called “punitive damages.” In rare cases, California law allows for the award of this additional category of damages. Punitive damages are not meant to compensate the victim, but rather the purpose of punitive damages is to punish the wrongdoer and deter similar conduct in the future. For drivers in Ventura, understanding when punitive damages might be awarded can help you know your rights and how to protect them if you are injured by someone else’s reckless or malicious actions. Here we explain the basics of punitive damages under California personal injury laws and where to get legal help in Ventura.

Punitive Damages in Ventura Car Accident Cases: The Basics

Under California personal injury laws, punitive damages (sometimes called exemplary damages) may be awarded when the defendant’s (the negligent or at-fault driver) conduct amounts to oppression, fraud, or malice. The law defines malice as behavior intended to cause injury or that shows a willful and conscious disregard for the safety of others. Oppression refers to conduct that subjects a person to cruel and unjust hardship, and fraud involves intentional misrepresentation or deceit. In the context of Ventura car accidents, punitive damages are most commonly pursued when a driver’s actions go beyond ordinary negligence. Examples of cases in which punitive damages may be awarded include drunk driving, street racing, road rage, or intentionally causing a collision.

How to Get an Award of Punitive Damages in Your Ventura Car Accident Lawsuit

To get an award of punitive damages, a Ventura car accident victim must first file a lawsuit in court, and make a claim for punitive damages. Again, it is important for Ventura car accident victims to keep in mind that punitive damages are rarely awarded and may only be awarded in cases where the other driver’s conduct shows intentional disregard for others’ safety. Examples include a drunk driver who causes a head-on crash on Highway 101, a driver racing through downtown Ventura at high speeds, or someone who deliberately forces another car off the road. Because these claims can be complex and require strong evidence, it is important to have an experienced Ventura car accident lawyer on your side to help guide you through the process.

Getting Legal Help in Ventura

If you are in the Ventura area and you need legal help with your Ventura car accident case, do not hesitate to speak with a lawyer now. The experienced Ventura car accident lawyers at Zavala Law, PC are here to help victims of serious car accidents get justice against the negligent drivers who injure them. Contact Zavala Law, PC today and speak with a lawyer now.