Civil Actions for Injuring a Child
Whether or not it constitutes a crime, an action that causes injury to a minor may allow the child and their family to recover damages in a lawsuit. The time allowed for filing a civil lawsuit in Texas extends for two years from the date of the injury. Without an adult representative, a child may not file a civil action before they reach the age of maturity, so their two-year filing period begins when they turn 18. Family members may sue for harm they suffered from a child’s injury, and if the injury leads to death, they may file a wrongful death claim for any resulting damages they suffer.
Compensatory damages awarded in such cases may arise from economic as well as noneconomic harm. A claimant who receives them may also seek exemplary damages, which are awarded for punitive rather than compensatory reasons. Those who have suffered devastating losses due to their child being injured should consult with an experienced attorney in the area to discuss their legal options for recovery.