Compensation in Central Texas Personal Injury Cases 

Scanes Yelverton Talbert, LLP (SYT) is a trusted Central Texas personal injury and trial law firm based in Waco, Texas. We serve clients across the region, representing victims of catastrophic injuries and complex accidents. Every case we handle is unique, which is why we do not take a one-size-fits-all approach. We know each client’s injuries, circumstances, and long-term needs are different. Our attorneys are dedicated to crafting a personalized strategy designed to maximize recovery, whether through negotiation or trial. We have extensive courtroom experience, which gives our clients a strategic advantage when dealing with insurance companies or corporate defendants who may otherwise attempt to undervalue claims. 

   

We are exceptionally skilled in representing clients facing serious injuries from high-impact accidents, including car and truck collisions, 18-wheeler accidents, motorcycle crashes, bus and public transportation accidents, aviation and minor plane crashes, boating and drowning incidents, construction site injuries, workplace injuries, nursing home neglect, daycare accidents, and catastrophic medical negligence. Regardless of the type of accident you endured, our focus is on ensuring victims receive full compensation while helping them rebuild their lives with dignity. 

 

Types of Compensation in Personal Injury Cases 

Compensation in personal injury cases is generally divided into two main categories: economic damages and non-economic damages. 

   

Economic damages are measurable financial losses caused by an accident. These include medical expenses, ongoing rehabilitation costs, prescription medications, surgical procedures, physical therapy, lost wages, loss of earning capacity, and long-term care. In wrongful death cases, economic damages may also cover funeral and burial costs, as well as the deceased’s projected future income. For example, a client injured in a catastrophic trucking accident may require multiple surgeries, lifelong rehabilitation, adaptive equipment, and long-term care, all of which would be factored into their economic damages. 

   

Non-economic damages compensate for more intangible losses, such as pain and suffering, emotional distress, loss of companionship, and diminished quality of life. These damages are just as real as those we can quantify from medical bills. For example, a family that loses a loved one in a boating or aviation accident may experience profound emotional trauma and disruption of family life, which can be included in non-economic damages. Victims of catastrophic workplace or construction accidents may face severe physical limitations that prevent them from enjoying hobbies, social activities, or even performing daily tasks. These are factors we consider heavily when building your case. 

   

At SYT, we evaluate both current and long-term needs. We do not just look at what it costs today, but what the future holds for our clients and their families. Our goal is to ensure you are fully supported, financially and emotionally, for years to come. 

 

How Compensation Is Calculated 

Calculating compensation is a complex process that goes far beyond simply totaling medical bills. At SYT, we consider every factor that affects a client’s life after an accident, including current and future medical care, rehabilitation, home modifications, lost wages, loss of earning capacity, and emotional and psychological effects. 

   

Texas also follows a comparative fault system, which means that if a client is partially responsible for an accident, their compensation may be reduced proportionally. For instance, if a client is determined to be 20% at fault in a car accident, their total recovery could be reduced by that percentage. Our attorneys thoroughly investigate each accident to ensure fault is assessed correctly and that clients are not unfairly penalized for circumstances beyond their control. 

   

The investigation process is meticulous. We spend time gathering medical records, consulting expert witnesses, reviewing accident reports, obtaining financial evidence, and examining employment and income history. In complex cases, such as 18-wheeler accidents, construction site injuries, or catastrophic workplace incidents, we may retain accident reconstruction specialists or medical experts to quantify the full impact of the injury. This approach ensures that insurance companies and opposing parties understand the severity of the case and the extent of damages. With SYT by your side, there is no stone left unturned because we know what is at stake. 

 

Common Mistakes That Can Reduce Compensation 

Many victims unknowingly reduce their potential recovery by making common mistakes. One of the most significant mistakes we see is speaking directly with insurance adjusters without legal representation. Insurance companies are trained to minimize claims and may use recorded statements or settlement offers to shift blame or undervalue injuries. Even a statement as simple as "I feel fine" or "Maybe I wasn't paying attention" can be twisted to minimize your claim. Signing releases or providing information without legal guidance can have serious long-term consequences. 

   

Other mistakes that can reduce compensation include delaying medical treatment, failing to document injuries, failing to preserve evidence, or neglecting to track lost wages and ongoing care costs. At SYT, we guide clients through every step, from collecting essential documentation to managing communication with insurers. We ensure that your rights are fully protected and that every aspect of your case is documented correctly to maximize your recovery. 

 

Why Work with SYT

At SYT, we are compassionate trial lawyers and advocates in the Central Texas community. We understand that a serious injury can change lives overnight, affecting not only your physical health but also your family, finances, and overall quality of life. That is why we take the time to listen to every client, understand the long-term consequences of their injuries, and create a legal strategy tailored specifically to their needs. 

   

We have built a reputation for handling complex personal injury cases throughout Central Texas. Our trial-ready approach means that we do not settle quickly for less than our clients deserve. Whether representing victims of catastrophic car crashes, 18-wheeler accidents, workplace injuries, construction accidents, boating accidents, or aviation disasters, we prepare every case as if it will go to court. This preparation gives our clients leverage in negotiations and ensures insurers and corporate defendants take their claims seriously. 

   

Beyond financial recovery, we aim to help clients regain a sense of control, stability, and dignity after a life-altering event. We are deeply committed to the Central Texas community and are proud to stand by those who have been injured through no fault of their own. 

 

Take the First Step Today

If you have been injured in a car, truck, motorcycle, bus, construction, workplace, boating, or any other incident stemming from negligent behavior in Central Texas, don’t wait to learn what your case may be worth. In Texas, the statute of limitations sets strict deadlines for filing personal injury claims, and waiting too long can result in losing your right to compensation. That’s why it’s critical to reach out as soon as possible. 

   

Fill out our free online personal injury case review form today to get started. This allows our experienced team at Scanes Yelverton Talbert, LLP to review your case, evaluate potential compensation, and guide you through the best next steps. Every accident is unique, and early action ensures your rights are protected, deadlines are met, and evidence is preserved. Let our trial-ready attorneys put their experience, skill, and compassion to work for you, fighting for the full recovery you deserve and helping you move forward with confidence. 



“I would like to give a big thanks to the law firm myself and to Joel Shields who represented me on my case. All cases are different, yes indeed. But one thing for sure, they are dedicated to each one of them. I am forever grateful to them for their work and dedication. For that I’m back on my feet again!”

Dannj Herr

Client