Houston Car Accident Lawyers
Over 40 Years of Combined Experience. Millions Recovered for Houstonians Like You.
Are you recovering from a serious crash caused by another driver? A severe car accident leaves you with high medical bills, missed paychecks, lasting pain, and no way to get around. If another driver caused the wreck, you may be entitled to compensation that helps you recover physically and financially.
At Universal Law Group, our trial attorneys have decades of experience representing car accident victims in Houston. We’ve handled complex cases involving traumatic injuries and secured favorable results for clients in Harris County courts.
When you hire us, we take over communication with bill collectors and insurance adjusters. We collect evidence, gather your medical records, and prove the other driver’s fault using expert analysis and crash reports. Every step is handled for you, so you can focus on your health.
Our firm has recovered millions for clients in car accident cases, including those involving brain injuries, wrongful death, commercial truck crashes, city buses, and motorcycle wrecks. No matter how severe your injury, we know how to build a case that demands full value.
Call (832) 767-0339 to schedule a free consultation with our Houston car accident lawyers. We’re ready to help you take the next step forward.
Why You Need Our Houston Car Accident Attorney On Your Car Accident Claim
Insurance companies work quickly to limit what they owe after a crash. Adjusters will contact you early, asking for recorded statements they can use to deny or minimize your claim. Their goal is to settle fast, before the full cost of your injuries is clear.
A personal injury lawyer shifts the balance. Instead of dealing with pressure from the insurer, you get a legal team focused on protecting your interests and maximizing your compensation.
First, we launch an independent investigation. This includes gathering police reports, witness statements, video footage, and medical records that prove what happened and how it affected you. We document your injuries, track your recovery, and calculate the total cost of your losses, now and in the future.
If multiple policies apply, we identify each one and pursue every available source of compensation. This might include liability insurance, underinsured motorist coverage, or even third-party claims if a defective vehicle or dangerous road condition played a role.
Insurers rely on delay tactics and low offers to pressure people into settling. We push back. When they won’t negotiate fairly, our trial lawyers are ready to take your case to court with the evidence and expert support needed to win.
Getting a Houston car accident attorney involved early gives you an advantage. It protects key evidence, prevents costly mistakes, and puts pressure on the insurer to take your claim seriously from the start.
Why Hire a Houston Car Accident Attorney Near Me?
Hire a car accident lawyer near you because insurance companies prefer when you don’t have a lawyer. Without legal guidance, they can take advantage of your inexperience with the claims process. A Houston car accident attorney levels the playing field and protects your right to fair compensation.
From the start, we treat your case like it will go to trial. Our auto injury attorneys have handled cases in Harris County courtrooms and know how to prepare strong claims that hold up under scrutiny. Your case is never passed off to staff; we work directly with you to understand your injuries and build your case.
We begin with a detailed consultation to learn what happened, then gather medical records, witness statements, crash reports, and expert input. This evidence helps establish fault, link your injuries to the crash, and show the full impact on your life.
You deserve a Houston personal injury lawyer who understands Texas car accident claims. Insurance adjusters use predictable tactics—quick settlement offers, blame-shifting, and claim delays. We counter with facts, legal arguments, and expert witness support to demand full compensation.
You walk away with a better settlement and more money. We review every element of your losses: hospital bills, future medical needs, lost wages, and pain and suffering. We also prepare to challenge any false claims made by the at-fault driver, especially when they attempt to shift blame to reduce their liability.
We review every element of your losses: hospital bills, future medical needs, lost wages, and pain and suffering. We also prepare to challenge any false claims made by the at-fault driver, especially when they attempt to shift blame to reduce their liability.
You deserve a legal team that takes your case seriously from day one. We build strong claims, push back against insurers, and fight for the outcome you need to move forward.
$180,000
Rear-Ended By a Commercial Vehicle
$190,000
Auto Accident Involving a Child
$250,000
commercial truck accident
How Much Does It Cost to Hire a Car Accident Lawyer in Houston, Texas?
Hiring a Houston, Texas car accident lawyer should never add stress to your situation. We work on a contingency fee basis. That means you don’t have to worry about paying legal fees. We only get paid when we win your case – no win, no pay.
You never have to worry about out-of-pocket costs with our team. Our approach to contingent fees makes it simple and straightforward. All you have to do is focus on your health while we focus on full financial recovery in your case.
We also believe in transparency when it comes to costs. Our legal team explains all the costs at your initial consultation so you know what to expect. When you work with our Houston personal injury team, we want you to make informed decisions at every step of the claims process.
We handle all aspects of your claim—from requesting crash reports and medical information to filing demand letters and negotiating settlements—so you can focus on treatment and recovery.
Contact a Texas Car Accident Lawyer Near You for a Free Case Review
Were you injured in a Houston car accident? We are here to help you with your personal injury claim. Our main office is conveniently located in the Towers at Westchase at 10350 Richmond Ave., Suite 450.
Insurance companies often undervalue claims or deny them outright. We fight to ensure your compensation reflects the full impact of your injuries, lost wages, and pain. A skilled legal team can help you achieve full financial recovery.
Call (832) 767-0339 or submit our contact form to get started. A car accident lawyer will review your case and explain what comes next—at no cost to you.
What Should I Do After a Car Accident in Houston?
The moments following a car accident are crucial. What you do next can affect your health, safety, and your chances of recovering compensation.
Here’s what you should do after a car crash in Houston:
- Move to a safe location if possible, but avoid leaving the scene. If you’re able to, park your car out of traffic and call 911 to report the accident.
- Even if you feel fine, visit a doctor. Some injuries, like whiplash or internal trauma, may not be immediately obvious. Early medical documentation is vital for your health and your case.
- Exchange names, addresses, phone numbers, and insurance details with the other driver(s). Take photos of the accident scene, including vehicle damage and any visible injuries. This will help later when proving your claim.
- Speak with an experienced car accident lawyer as soon as possible. We can protect your rights, help gather the necessary evidence, and guide you through the claims process.
By following these steps, you protect both your health and your potential legal case. Don’t leave your future to chance. Contact a skilled Houston lawyer to help you recover from the aftermath of your crash.
Schedule a free, no-obligation consultation at our Houston office to speak directly with a car accident attorney about your legal options, evidence needs, and claim value. Call us or reach out online to schedule a time to review your case with one of our skilled car wreck attorneys.
What’s My Car Accident Case Worth?
Estimate your car accident case value by examining how the crash has affected your life. Start by identifying your injuries, your financial losses, and how long your recovery will take.
The truth is, no two car accident claims are the same. Your case value depends on your specific injuries, treatment costs, time off work, and the long-term impact on your health and income.
Key Questions That Affect Your Case Value:
- How serious are your injuries?
- Will you recover fully, or are the effects permanent?
- Did the accident make an existing condition worse?
- Can you return to work, or will you lose money for months—or years?
- What out-of-pocket costs are you paying now?
- Will you need future treatment, like rehab or surgery?
- How has the crash affected your ability to enjoy life?
In general, claims involving long-term injuries result in higher compensation. For example, according to the National Safety Council:
- The average value of a case involving a “possible injury” was $160,000.
- The average value of a case involving a “disabling injury” exceeded $1.2 million.
Why Documentation Matters
Keep clear records. Save all bills, pay stubs, receipts, and treatment notes. These documents help prove your losses and support your demand for full compensation.
What Causes Most Car Accidents in Houston?
According to Houston Police Department crash data, hundreds of traffic accidents occur every week on major roads like I-45, I-10, and Beltway 8. Some causes are more common than others. Here’s a look at what leads to most crashes in the area:
Distracted Driving
Distracted driving is a leading cause of car accidents in Houston. Texting while driving increases your crash risk by 23 times, according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA). In Houston, distracted drivers contribute to thousands of collisions each year. It takes your focus completely off the road. In fact, texting makes you six times more likely to crash than driving drunk. Other distractions include eating, talking on the phone, social media, or reaching for something in the car. Even daydreaming can cause accidents.
Drunk Driving
The Texas Department of Transportation reports that Harris County leads the state in DUI-related crashes. Alcohol-impaired driving often leads to severe impacts and serious injuries on Houston roads. In Houston, drunk driving accidents happen daily. These accidents often result in severe injuries and fatalities. If you’re hit by a drunk driver, you may be entitled to significant compensation for your injuries.
Speeding
These crashes are among the top three causes of traffic fatalities in Houston, especially in areas like Westheimer Road and Highway 6, where drivers frequently exceed posted limits. Drivers in a hurry often exceed these limits to make up time, but this increases the risk of losing control. Speeding makes it harder to react quickly to changes in traffic, leading to more accidents.
Failure to Yield the Right of Way
Many accidents happen because drivers fail to yield the right of way at intersections or other traffic points. This can lead to serious collisions, especially when cars are turning or entering busy streets.
Aggressive Driving
Houston is the third worst city in the nation for traffic according to a study by Texas A&M. Aggressive driving—such as tailgating, illegal lane changes, and ignoring red lights—was cited in over 5,000 crashes in the Houston metro area last year, based on Texas crash records. These behaviors can lead to crashes when drivers don’t give each other enough space or time to react.
Inexperienced Drivers
Teen drivers and newly licensed motorists are more likely to misjudge distance, overlook blind spots, or fail to yield—common errors that contribute to serious crashes near schools and residential zones in Houston. This lack of experience can lead to dangerous situations on the road.
Weather Conditions
Houston’s unpredictable weather can make driving hazardous. Heavy rain, fog, or ice can cause drivers to lose control or fail to stop in time. Poor visibility and slippery roads make accidents more likely.
Vehicle Defects and Poor Road Conditions
Defective car parts, like brakes, can lead to accidents. Also, potholes, uneven road surfaces, and poorly designed intersections contribute to crashes.
Fatigued or Impaired Drivers
Fatigued or impaired drivers are another danger on the road. If someone is too exhausted or under the influence of drugs or alcohol, their reaction times slow down, increasing the likelihood of an accident.
Our legal team uses police reports, dash cam footage, traffic light sequencing, and black box data to identify the exact cause of your crash and determine who is legally responsible.
Can a Houston Car Accident Lawyer Help Me If I’m Partly At Fault for My Accident?
Yes, you can still get compensation for your injuries, even if you share some of the blame. Texas follows a rule called modified comparative fault. This rule allows you to recover damages as long as you are 50% or less at fault for the accident.
Here’s how it works:
- If you’re found partly at fault, the amount you receive will be reduced by your percentage of responsibility. Example: If your damages total $100,000 and you’re 30% at fault, you can still recover $70,000.
- Once your share of fault hits 51% or more, you cannot recover any money from the other party. In that case, you would be responsible for your own expenses.
- Insurance companies and, if necessary, the courts decide how fault is divided. They look at evidence like police reports, crash scene photos, and witness accounts.
Insurers may try use comparative negligence to shift more blame onto you to lower their payout. An experienced Houston TX car accident lawyer pushes back and protects your rights.
If you’re unsure about your share of fault, don’t guess. Contact our Houston law offices before accepting any settlement. You could still recover a large portion of your losses through comparative negligence, even if you played a part in the crash.
How Long Do I Have to File a Claim in Houston, Texas?
The statute of limitations for motor vehicle collisions in Texas is two years from the date of the injury, as outlined in Texas Civil Practice & Remedies Code section 16.003.
If you do not file a lawsuit within these two years, the court may refuse to hear the case. However, the specifics of your case can also shorten or lengthen the time frame.
For example, claims that involve a government entity have a much shorter window. Additionally, some situations affect when the clock starts, potentially extending the deadline. For instance, if you are in a catastrophic collision in a bottleneck around NRG Stadium that hospitalizes you and puts you in a coma, you may be able to have your file period begin once you become aware of your injuries.
If you’re unsure whether you have a claim, bring your accident report and medical details to a free consultation with a Houston auto injury attorney. We’ll assess fault, explain your legal options, and estimate your potential compensation.
What Damages Can I Recover After a Car Accident in Texas?
In Texas, someone injured in an auto accident may be eligible to recover compensation for relevant expenses incurred in the collision. We refer to these costs as damages. In most cases, compensation comes from the at-fault driver’s liability insurance or, if needed, through your own uninsured/underinsured motorist (UM/UIM) coverage. It does not come directly from the at-fault driver.
There are several forms of recoverable damages in Texas motor vehicle accident claims. However, there are three categories that they fit into: economic damages, non-economic, and punitive damages. Additionally, if someone dies in a car accident, they may be eligible for a survivor action and wrongful death claim.
Economic Damages
Economic damages encompass the physical financial losses as well as any hardships caused by the accident. This may include:
- Medical Bills: Severe injuries may incur significant medical costs immediately after the incident and potentially throughout your life. Current and future medical bills, cognitive therapy, physical therapy, emergency medicine or ambulance fees, medical accessories, medical devices, and in-home medical care required due to a present or permanent disability are examples of recoverable economic damages.
- Property Damage: If the other driver in the accident is at fault, you may be entitled to compensation for property damages. Typically, this includes the cost of repairing or replacing your vehicle. However, it may extend to other property damaged in the accident.
- Lost Wages: If an accident or injury prevents you from going back to work, even for a brief period, your lost income and any resulting hardship, such as missed mortgage payments or rent, are recoverable damages as well. This may apply to hospitalization, medical appointments, and temporary disability.
- Reduced Earning Capacity: If your injury impacts your future ability to earn pay, you may be eligible for damages based on past earnings. Generally, the calculation of potential wages may include your age, experience, occupation, skill, or life expectancy.
Non-Economic Damages
Non-economic damages provide coverage for the abstract ways in which an injury impacts your life. Because of that intangible nature, the amount you recover depends on your injury lawyer’s ability to provide proof of the valuation.
Per Section 41.001 (12) of the Texas Civil Practice and Remedies Code, Texas includes pain and suffering, mental anguish, disfigurement, loss of consortium, loss of enjoyment, damage to reputation, and other nonpecuniary losses.
- Disfigurement: When mental suffering accompanies disfigurement or severe scarring in a personal injury claim, compensation may be available. Physical impairment, reduced quality of life, loss of companionship, and other damages that cannot be measured via financial value are also recoverable.
- Pain and Suffering: Texas allows you to assign a monetary value to the pain and suffering that results from an injury. This encompasses multiple factors, including the severity and type of the injury, the duration of the pain, and the likelihood of continued pain or suffering.
Punitive Damages
Punitive damages are limited to accidents that involve intentional harm or particularly reckless behavior. Typically, punitive damages are a consequence reserved for individuals or entities as a warning against similar behavior from the offender or others.
Do I Have to Prove Negligence If I File a Houston Car Accident Lawsuit?
To succeed in a car accident lawsuit in Houston, you must show that the other driver acted negligently—such as by texting while driving, running a red light, or violating traffic laws—and caused your injuries as a result. This is the legal basis for most injury claims in Texas.
Negligence means someone failed to act with reasonable care and caused harm as a result. To win your case, you must show four key elements:
- Duty of Care: The other driver had a legal duty to drive safely and follow traffic laws.
- Breach of Duty: The driver broke that duty. This can include texting while driving, running a red light, or driving under the influence.
- Causation: You must show that the driver’s actions directly caused the crash and your injuries. If they hadn’t acted carelessly, you wouldn’t have been hurt.
- Damages: You must have real losses. This can include medical bills, lost wages, car repairs, and emotional distress.
In Texas, you must prove these elements by a preponderance of the evidence. That means your side of the story is more likely true than not.
Proving negligence isn’t always easy. Insurance companies may try to shift the blame or downplay your injuries. A strong legal case, backed by evidence, helps level the playing field. A car accident lawyer can help collect proof, speak with witnesses, and build your case so you have the best chance at fair compensation.
Uber, Lyft, and Rideshare Accidents
Uber and Lyft allow users to request rides quickly through a mobile app, offering a flexible alternative to taxis or public transit. But if an Uber or Lyft ride ends in a crash, the legal issues get complicated. You may deal with multiple drivers, large liability companies, and confusing policies.
If you’re hurt in a rideshare accident, act quickly. Call 911, get medical help, and gather evidence. Then, speak with a Houston attorney who has handled claims involving rideshare companies like Uber and Lyft.
Who Pays After a Rideshare Crash?
Rideshare insurance depends on what the driver was doing at the time:
- Driver offline: Their personal coverage applies.
- App on, no rider: Uber or Lyft provides limited liability insurance.
- Rider onboard: Both companies offer up to $1 million in coverage.
If the Uber or Lyft driver caused the accident while you were riding, you may file a claim under the company’s policy. If another driver caused the crash, you may file against that driver’s insurance—and still use Uber or Lyft’s uninsured/underinsured coverage if needed.
Injured in a Rideshare? You May Recover:
- Medical bills: ER visits, surgery, rehab, and future care.
- Lost income: Missed paychecks and reduced earning ability.
- Pain and suffering: Physical pain, mental stress, and lifestyle changes.
- Property damage: Repair or replace your vehicle if involved.
Why Rideshare Cases Are Different
Uber and Lyft label drivers as independent contractors. This often limits company responsibility—unless the driver was logged in and actively working. Proving the driver’s status at the time of the accident is critical. Your auto injury attorney can help with this.
Insurance Requirements in Texas
Texas requires Uber, Lyft, and similar services to carry specific insurance. Drivers must have at least:
- $50,000 per person / $100,000 per crash in bodily injury coverage
- $25,000 in property damage coverage
- Up to $1 million in liability insurance when a ride is in progress
Determining which policy covers the accident depends on the driver’s status and timing, which often requires legal review. Let a Houston car accident lawyer review your case and explain your options.
Uber and Lyft often prioritize limiting payouts and may challenge your claim to protect their financial interests. They may try to shift blame or offer low settlements. Work with a car wreck attorney who understands Uber and Lyft claims in Texas. That can make the difference between a denied claim and fair compensation.
What Are the Most Common Car Accident Injuries?
In 2023, there were 169,203 recorded car accident injuries in Texas. These injuries can be broken down into two categories:
- Impact Injuries are injuries that were caused by the person hitting something inside of the car. These are not cuts, lacerations or anything caused by a penetrating object. Impact injuries often manifest themselves into injuries like:
- Whiplash is a neck or back injury caused by a sudden back and forth movement of the head. This is a common injury caused by car accidents.
- Concussions are head injuries that result in bruising of the brain. Concussions should be taken seriously and if you suspect you’ve sustained a concussion after an automobile collision, seek medical attention immediately.
- Bruises are common after car accidents. It is common for the driver to be unaware of their injuries right away. Bruises will often show up days after the accident, which is why it getting checked out by a medical practitioner is good idea.
- Internal Bleeding is a life threatening condition. If you’ve been in a serious accident and suspect that you have internal bleeding, you need to get to an emergency room right away.
- Broken Bones are a common, but serious injuries that occur in car accidents.
- Traumatic Brain Injuriesare often caused by car accidents. Someone suffering from a traumatic brain injury may experience blurry vision, confusion and concentration difficulty. Infants may cry persistently or be irritable.
- Penetrating Injuries
A Penetrating injury occurs when an object pierces the skin and enters a tissue of the body, creating a deep but relatively narrow entry wound.
- Scrapes
- Cuts from broken windshield
- Lacerations
In Texas, hundreds of thousands of people sustain injuries in auto accidents every year. Unfortunately, many people don’t take action immediately after the accident, resulting in the crash victim not being able to pay their bills or medical care needed to get well.
Types of Motor Vehicle Accidents
Motor vehicle collisions in Houston result from a range of scenarios, including high-pace impacts, distracted driving, and traffic violations. Some crashes are minor. Others lead to life-changing injuries or death. Each type of accident involves different causes, injuries, and legal questions. Below are the most common types of motor vehicle accidents we see in Houston.
Head-On Collisions
Head-on crashes often cause the most serious injuries. These accidents happen when two vehicles moving in opposite directions crash front-to-front. High speeds increase the risk of death or severe injury. Victims often suffer broken limbs, internal injuries, or brain trauma.
Rear-End Collisions
Rear-end accidents are the most common in Houston. They often occur on busy roads like I-45. Distracted driving and tailgating are frequent causes. Whiplash and back injuries are common, even in slow impacts. In most cases, the driver who rear-ends another car is at fault.
T-Bone Accidents
A T-crash happens when one car strikes the side of another. These wrecks usually take place at intersections. Drivers who run red lights or fail to yield often cause them. The impact can crush doors and injure drivers and passengers sitting on the struck side.
Sideswipe Accidents
Sideswipes happen when one vehicle drifts or changes lanes and hits another car’s side. These crashes often occur on highways or in heavy traffic. While not always deadly, sideswipes can still cause loss of control, rollovers, or secondary impacts.
Vehicle Rollover Accidents
Rollover crashes happen when a vehicle flips onto its side or roof. Taller vehicles like SUVs and trucks are more likely to roll over. Sharp turns and road hazards can cause these accidents. Rollovers often result in serious injuries, including spinal cord damage and head trauma.
Intersection Collisions
Intersections are a hotspot for car crashes. Most intersection accidents happen because a driver runs a red light, fails to yield, or turns without looking. T-collisions and head-on collisions are common at intersections. Distraction also increases the risk of severe injury.
Multi-Vehicle Pileups
Chain-reaction crashes involve three or more vehicles. Multi-vehicle crashes often involve overlapping insurance policies, disputed fault, and several injury claims filed at once.
Hit-and-Run Accidents
If a driver flees the scene, it can leave victims with unpaid medical bills and property damage. We help track down these drivers and file claims under uninsured motorist policies if needed.
Houston Car Accidents Due to Road Defects or Work Zones
Road hazards like unmarked lane shifts, crumbling pavement, or missing warning signs can lead to loss of vehicle control and serious accidents. In these cases, the city, county, or a private contractor may be responsible.
Fatal Car Accidents
If a loved one was killed in a Houston car crash, our firm can help you file a wrongful death lawsuit. These claims allow surviving family members to recover damages for funeral and burial costs, lost future income, medical bills related to the crash, and loss of companionship. We handle fatal crash claims with prompt action and careful attention to grieving families’ needs during this difficult time. Our goal is to help you get justice and financial support after a tragic loss.
Speeding Accidents
Drivers who exceed posted limits or drive too fast for road conditions put everyone at risk. It also reduces the time a driver has to react and increases the severity of injuries in a crash. Victims of accelerated accidents often suffer broken limbs, brain injuries, or internal damage. We investigate crash data, black box records, and witness statements to prove the driver’s pace played a role in the collision.
DUI & DWI Accidents
Drunk and drug-impaired driving is a major cause of preventable injuries and deaths in Houston. These accidents often involve reckless driving or failing to obey traffic signals. If you were hit by an impaired driver, we can help you pursue compensation through a personal injury claim and may also seek punitive damages. We work to hold DUI offenders accountable and push for maximum recovery.
Vehicle Defect-Related Accidents
Mechanical failures such as brake malfunctions or steering defects can cause crashes even when drivers obey traffic rules. A faulty brake system, tire blowout, or steering problems can lead to a serious crash. When a vehicle defect is to blame, we may file a product liability claim against the manufacturer, distributor, or repair shop. These cases often require expert analysis of vehicle parts and crash reconstruction. Our team has the experience to handle these technical claims and fight for full compensation.
Uninsured & Underinsured Motorist Accidents
Texas requires drivers to carry minimum liability insurance, but many drivers ignore the rules or carry too little coverage. If you were hit by someone without insurance—or with coverage that doesn’t fully cover your losses—we can help you file a UM/UIM claim under your own auto policy. These cases involve strict deadlines and technical requirements. Our Houston car accident lawyers help you understand your policy and fight for every dollar available.
Other Types of Collisions:
- Commercial vehicle accidents
- Car and bus accidents
- Car and pedestrian accidents
- Self-driving car accidents
- Airbag injuries
- Car and bicycle accidents
We represent injured drivers and passengers across Houston, including Harris, Fort Bend, and Montgomery counties. Using our 40+ years of legal experience to earn you the compensation you deserve is our only goal.
We are here to help you in your hour of need. Contact our Houston office to schedule a confidential, free case review.
Should I Accept the Insurance Company’s Offer?
No, call our skilled legal team before accepting any offers. In fact, avoid speaking with the other driver’s insurance company all together. Handling a claim on your own means you’re leaving money on the table.
Insurance companies aim to reduce payouts by offering fast, low settlements that often fail to cover full medical and repair costs. Don’t fall for a catchy jingle when they send you a lowball settlement offer that protects their bottom line while doing nothing to help you.
The initial offer an insurer sends is never enough to cover all of your costs. While you’re still undergoing treatment, there’s no way for them to know the severity and impact of your injuries.
Adjusters prey on car accident victims at an incredibly overwhelming and stressful time. After an accident, you may feel overwhelmed and pressured to settle quickly just to escape the ongoing anxiety and uncertainty.That anxiety you feel is why you need a skilled Houston auto accident attorney on your side.
A qualified Houston injury attorney can handle all communications with the company while you focus on recovering from your injuries. Our attorneys assess your injuries, lost wages, and long-term needs to pursue full compensation through negotiation or trial.
How Do I Know Whether I Have a Car Accident Case?
You may have a case if you suffered any form of injury in a car wreck. However, there is no way for anyone to give you a clear answer without evaluating your claim. Motor vehicle collision cases involve many different factors, including the scope of your injuries, who is at fault, insurance coverage, and the potential of multiple liable parties, among others.
Whether you believe you have a viable case or aren’t sure, we encourage you to consult a personal injury lawyer for a free case evaluation.
What Is Legal Liability in Auto Accident Claims?
Legal Liability means that someone is legally liable to pay a debt. In the case of a car accident, it means that the at-fault driver has a legal liability to pay for the other driver’s damages. These damages include medical bills, damage to the vehicle, etc.
In motor vehicle accident cases, negligence plays a key role in determining liability for a crash. The basic definition of negligence shows someone’s failure to meet the level of care an ordinary individual would exercise in the same situation. Failing here may occur through someone’s actions or lack thereof.
Out on Texas roads, drivers owe each other a duty of care. Simply put, they should drive in a way that does not endanger others. This includes following the law, signals, and signs, refraining from distractions like texting, and not driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs. Additionally, governmental entities must design and maintain safe roads to minimize the risks faced by drivers. Any poor design choices or defects may cause an increase in motor vehicle collisions.
Automakers and parts suppliers must test their products for safety. If a defective part or faulty airbag causes harm, they may be held financially responsible. Failing to meet this duty leaves the party legally responsible for accidents and resulting injuries. Based on the details of the accident, one or multiple parties may be responsible for damages.
What Happens If You’re Injured as a Passenger in a Car Accident?
Get medical attention right away. Even if the injury seems minor, some symptoms take hours or days to appear. Medical records help prove your injury came from the crash, not another cause.
Passengers injured in Texas car accidents may file claims against the at-fault driver’s insurance, but determining who was at fault is not always immediate. Texas allows passengers to recover damages, but insurers often dispute claims or shift blame, which can delay or reduce your compensation.. Insurers may delay, deny, or blame others to avoid paying.
Who Pays for Their Injuries?
In most cases, the at-fault driver’s insurance is responsible for your injury. That could be the driver of the car you were in, the other driver, or both. If more than one driver caused the crash, you may be able to file multiple claims. An injury lawyer can review the crash report, witness statements, and insurance policies to identify who caused the accident.
Texas follows a fault-based system. That means whoever caused the accident pays. As a passenger, you’re rarely blamed. Unless you grabbed the wheel or interfered with the driver, you likely bear no responsibility.
Here’s who may be liable for your injuries:
- The driver of your vehicle if they caused or contributed to the crash.
- The driver of another vehicle if they were at fault.
- A third party, such as a road construction company or auto manufacturer, if they played a role in the accident.
In some situations, your own auto policy may help. If you carry personal injury protection (PIP), MedPay, or uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage (UM/UIM), these may cover your medical bills and other losses. A skilled car wreck attorney can review your policy to see what applies.
Compensation
Getting compensation as an injured riders often means dealing with multiple policies, claim adjusters, and deadlines. Accident claims involve deadlines, paperwork, and insurance negotiations—missing one step can hurt your case. Injury lawyers manage the investigation, gather your records, and deal with insurers so you can focus on healing.
The legal process starts with identifying fault. From there, your legal team will gather evidence, handle paperwork, negotiate with insurers, and if needed, take the case to court. Your lawyer will pursue full compensation for your medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering, and any future care needs.
- Medical bills
- Lost time at work
- Pain and suffering
- Future medical care
- Emotional distress
As a passenger, you had no control over the crash. You have the right to hold the responsible party financially accountable. An experienced Houston car accident attorney can prepare a strong claim, backed by evidence, to seek maximum compensation.
Frequently Asked Questions
Should I Talk to the Insurance Company?
Generally, it is best to leave communication with other parties to your Houston car accident lawyer. This includes even your own insurance company.
It is essential that you do not accept blame or fault in any type of accident. The other driver’s insurer may use recorded statements or technicalities to reduce or deny your payout. Insurance firms typically have their own investigators and insurance adjusters who seek to undermine your claim and your case. Insurance companies often make early offers before you know the full cost of your injury.
When you work with a car accident lawyer in Houston, TX, you have an advocate against these companies. Our auto accident attorneys review each offer against your actual losses to see if it covers your current and future payments.
What If I Was Working or On-the-Clock When the Accident Happened?
You may qualify for both workers’ compensation and a third-party injury claim if you were driving for work or on a job site. We can explain whether you qualify for workers’ comp, a personal injury claim, or both, based on the cause of the accident.
What Are Common Mistakes People Make After an Accident?
Some of the most common mistakes people make after an accident include:
- Fleeing the scene, which is illegal in Texas
- Failing to call the police to report the accident. A police report is an important part of your claim.
- Waiting to see a doctor. Adrenaline can mask injuries for a time, so we recommend you seek medical attention as soon as possible.
- Forgetting to take pictures. Photos and video help your attorney reconstruct the scene of the accident.
- Not consulting an attorney before they accept a settlement. An experienced accident attorney can help you get a better settlement offer.
You can protect your case by calling police, getting medical care, and speaking to a lawyer before talking to insurers. Contacting a car accident lawyer near you soon after the crash helps preserve evidence and meet legal deadlines. A strong claim includes crash reports, medical records, witness statements, and clear evidence of damages.
I’m Undocumented. Can You Still Take My Case?
Yes, you have the right to file a car wreck lawsuit and recover damages. In Texas, immigration status does not affect your right to file a personal injury lawsuit.. However, your Houston auto accident attorney can issue a privacy objection to stop any line of questioning that may elicit this information.
Generally, English is the language used in the courtroom. However, it is common for non-English speakers to use a licensed interpreter. We work with licensed interpreters to help you clearly explain what happened and how the injury affected your life.
Speak With a Houston Car Accident Lawyer Near You
Our Houston, Texas car accident lawyers have handled hundreds of injury claims involving rear-end crashes, truck accidents, and uninsured drivers. We build each case with detailed evidence and expert input to help clients recover fair compensation after a crash.
If you or a loved one sustained injuries in an accident, call our office in Houston today at 832-767-0339. We provide confidential, free consultations with experienced car accident attorneys and serve Houstonians throughout Harris County and surrounding areas.