Car Accidents Attorney in Houston, Texas

A car accident involves more than just the stress and pain of physical injuries or vehicle damage. Understanding the intricacies of personal injury claims is crucial for anyone involved in such unfortunate events, especially when seeking compensation for damages you have undergone. 

Our legal team at the Law Offices of Francisco G. Medina has the compassion and comprehensive legal knowledge to guide you through the personal injury process after a vehicle accident. We proudly serve clients in Houston and throughout Fort Bend County, Montgomery County, and Galveston, Texas.  

Car Accident Laws in Texas 

In the state of Texas, car accident laws operate under a "fault" based system, which significantly influences the approach to personal injury claims following an accident. This means that the person who is at fault for causing the accident is also responsible for any resulting harm.

Consequently, victims have multiple avenues for recovery, including filing a claim against their own insurance, the at-fault driver's insurance, or pursuing a personal injury lawsuit in court.  

Common Types of Car Accidents 

Different types of car accidents can cause certain types of injuries. By identifying what type of car accident you were in can be beneficial for your attorney and your personal injury claim. These include:  

• Rear-end collisions: Often occurring when a vehicle abruptly stops, leading the car behind to crash into its rear. 

• Head-on collisions: These accidents happen when two vehicles collide front-to-front, often resulting in severe injuries or fatalities. 

• T-bone or side-impact collisions: Common at intersections, these occur when the side of one vehicle is hit by the front or rear of another. 

• Sideswipe accidents: Occurring when two vehicles traveling in the same or opposite directions scrape each other’s sides. 

• Single-vehicle accidents: These involve only one vehicle and can include hitting a tree, sliding off the road, or rolling over. 

• Multi-vehicle pile-ups: Frequently happening on highways, these accidents involve three or more vehicles and can be particularly complex. 

Common Injuries After a Car Accident 

Following a car accident, individuals may experience a wide range of injuries, varying in severity. Commonly reported injuries include: 

• Whiplash and other soft tissue injuries. 

• Broken bones. 

• Head injuries, including traumatic brain injuries (TBIs). 

• Lacerations and bruises. 

• Spinal cord injuries and paralysis.

• Psychological trauma, such as post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). 

Understanding Texas Personal Injury Law 

Texas adheres to a "modified comparative negligence" rule, impacting your ability to claim damages based on your fault percentage in an accident. Specifically: 

• If you're found 51% or more at fault, you cannot recover compensation in a personal injury claim. 

• This rule emphasizes the importance of accurately establishing fault. 

Negotiating with insurance companies becomes a critical step, as:

• They will assess your degree of fault. 

• Your compensation depends on minimizing your fault percentage. 

• Understanding and navigating this rule is essential for a successful personal injury claim in Texas. 

Speak with a knowledgeable personal injury attorney who can assist you throughout the entire claims process.  

Pursuing Car Accident Damages  

Compensation in personal injury claims may cover a range of damages, aimed at making the injured party whole. An adept attorney plays a crucial role in identifying and quantifying these damages to ensure fair compensation. The types of damages a victim can recover include: 

• Medical expenses: Costs associated with immediate and ongoing medical care, rehabilitation, and any future medical needs. 

• Lost wages: Compensation for the income lost due to the inability to work, including future earnings if the victim is unable to return to their previous employment. 

• Pain and suffering: This covers the physical pain and emotional distress suffered as a result of the injury, which can include anxiety, depression, and loss of enjoyment of life. 

• Property damage: Reimbursement for repairs or replacement of property damaged in the incident, such as a vehicle in a car accident. 

• Loss of consortium: Compensation awarded to the spouse or family members for loss of companionship, support, and affection resulting from the injury. 

• Punitive damages: In cases of egregious negligence, additional damages may be awarded to punish the wrongdoer and deter similar conduct in the future. 

An adept attorney will help you understand the full spectrum of damages you're entitled to and work tirelessly to ensure that you are compensated fairly. 

Statute of Limitations for Personal Injury Claims 

Timing is crucial when filing a personal injury claim in Texas. The statute of limitations generally allows victims two years from the date of the accident to file a lawsuit against those responsible.

Failing to adhere to this deadline can result in the loss of the right to compensation for injuries and damages suffered. 

Role of an Experienced Personal Injury Attorney 

From investigating the scene of the accident and gathering evidence to negotiating with insurance companies and representing your case in court if necessary, a personal injury lawyer's guidance is invaluable.

We can protect your rights and help you receive the maximum compensation possible under Texas law.