Punitive Damages in Texas
Punitive damages — also called exemplary damages — go beyond compensating your losses. They punish defendants for especially egregious or reckless conduct. Here is what you need to know about qualifying for and recovering punitive damages in Texas.
For informational purposes only. Not legal advice. Consult a licensed attorney.
Modified comparative fault (51% bar)
Fault System
2 years
Filing Deadline
$18,000 – $90,000
Avg Comp. Damages
When Are Punitive Damages Available in Texas?
In Texas, punitive damages require proof beyond ordinary negligence. Plaintiffs typically must show clear and convincing evidence that the defendant acted with malice, fraud, oppression, or conscious disregard for others' safety. Reckless driving, drunk driving, and intentional misconduct are common qualifying scenarios.
Texas operates under Modified comparative fault (51% bar). Punitive damage awards are made in addition to compensatory damages and are reduced if you share comparative fault.
Many states cap punitive damages at 2–3× compensatory damages or a fixed dollar limit. Some states require a portion of punitive awards to be paid to a state victim compensation fund. Consult a Texas attorney for the current statutory limits applicable to your case.
Key Facts About Texas Injury Law
Texas uses modified comparative fault under Tex. Civ. Prac. & Rem. Code § 33.001 with a 51% bar — if a plaintiff is found 51% or more at fault, all recovery is barred; below that threshold, the award is reduced proportionally by the plaintiff's assigned fault percentage.
Personal injury claims must be filed within 2 years from the date of injury under Tex. Civ. Prac. & Rem. Code § 16.003; Texas strictly enforces this deadline, and failure to file in time permanently extinguishes the right to sue for personal injuries.
Texas does not require no-fault PIP insurance and operates as a traditional at-fault tort state; however, personal injury protection (PIP) coverage must be offered by all auto insurers and is available for purchase, though drivers may reject it in writing.