Houston Car Accident Lawyers Fighting for the Compensation You Deserve

Injured in a Crash? Our Houston Car Accident Attorneys Can Help

When a car accident leaves you facing medical bills, lost wages, and daily stress, the last thing you need is pressure from an insurance company offering a quick, low settlement. At Universal Law Group, our Houston car accident lawyers stand between you and that pressure—focused on securing full compensation and protecting your future.

We’ve handled thousands of cases and resolved hundreds of car accident claims throughout Harris County. Your consultation is free, and you pay no legal fees unless we win. Our goal is to take on the legal burden so you can focus on healing—not paperwork.

Led by Attorney Brian Nguyen, our personal injury team brings more than 40 years of combined experience in Texas car accident law. Every case we handle reflects our commitment to results and justice for injured drivers.

Why Hire a Car Accident Lawyer After a Crash in Houston?

After a crash, insurance companies act fast—often to your disadvantage. Their goal is to minimize what they pay. They may request a recorded statement, offer a quick settlement, or find ways to undervalue your claim. These early offers rarely cover the full cost of your injuries, especially if symptoms appear later or require long-term care.

Hiring a Houston car accident lawyer changes the outcome. We protect your rights, handle all communication with insurers, and build a strong case for the compensation you need. Research shows that injury victims with legal representation recover more than those who go it alone.

At Universal Law Group, our team provides complete legal support designed to increase the value of your claim:

We conduct a thorough crash investigation and assess all damages.
We secure vital evidence—such as dashcam or surveillance footage—before it’s lost.
We work with medical and financial experts to document treatment needs, lost income, and future costs.
We negotiate directly with insurers and reject lowball offers.
If needed, we represent you in court to pursue full compensation.
We manage every step of your claim, offering clear guidance throughout.
We assist with medical bills and liens, connecting you with providers and working to reduce what’s owed.

Our Houston car accident legal team, including Case Manager Kaylin Wang, is here to protect your best interests from day one.

What to Do After a Car Accident in Houston

What you do after a crash can affect your safety, your recovery, and your legal claim. Taking the right steps early helps protect your health and strengthens your case.

Immediate Steps to Take:

Stay Safe and Call 911: If you can, move your vehicle out of traffic and turn on hazard lights. Stay at the scene and report the crash to police. Ask for the crash report number—this official record supports your insurance and legal claims.
Get Medical Attention: Always see a doctor, even if you feel fine. Injuries like whiplash, concussions, or internal bleeding may not show symptoms right away. A prompt medical exam protects your health and documents your injuries. Delaying care may hurt both your recovery and your claim.
Exchange Information: Collect the other driver’s name, contact information, license number, and insurance details. If there are witnesses, ask for their names and phone numbers. Their statements can support your version of events.
Document the Scene: Take photos and videos of all vehicles, damage, injuries, traffic signals, road hazards, skid marks, and weather conditions. Record any construction or obstacles that may have contributed to the crash.
Contact a Houston Car Accident Lawyer:
A lawyer helps protect your rights, gathers key evidence, and handles communication with insurance companies. Speaking with an attorney early improves your chances of recovering full compensation.

What Not to Do After a Crash

Avoiding certain actions immediately following an accident is as important as taking the right ones, as missteps can significantly jeopardize your potential claim.

Do Not Leave the Scene Before Speaking with Police. Even in minor crashes, leaving without a formal police report could harm your claim or lead to legal trouble.
Do Not Admit Fault or Apologize. Stick strictly to the facts when speaking with the other driver or the police. Even a simple apology can be misinterpreted and used against you later by insurance companies.
Do Not Delay Medical Care. As mentioned, some severe injuries have delayed symptoms. Waiting to see a doctor can worsen your condition and provide insurance companies with grounds to dispute the direct link between the accident and your injuries.
Do Not Speak to the Insurance Company Before Getting Legal Advice. Insurance adjusters are trained to minimize payouts. They may pressure you into giving a recorded statement or accepting a lowball offer that does not cover your full costs. Always consult with a Houston car accident lawyer first.

Houston Car Accident Statistics: A Critical Overview

Houston ranks among the busiest and most dangerous cities for drivers in Texas. The city’s dense traffic, large highway system, and fast-paced growth create serious road safety risks.

In 2023, Harris County recorded over 114,000 crashes—an average of nearly 185 accidents per day. These incidents caused 1,366 serious injuries and 435 fatalities. Across Texas, a crash is reported every 59 seconds, with one person injured every two minutes and four seconds.

High-Risk Roads in Houston

The most collision-prone areas include:

I-10, I-45, US-59, and the 610 Loop
Westheimer, FM 1960, and Main Street
Beltway 8 and surrounding feeder roads

These corridors often suffer from poor visibility, inconsistent signage, and aggressive driving behavior.

Economic and Legal Impact

Motor vehicle crashes in the Houston metro area cost over $6.5 billion annually. This figure includes:

Medical expenses
Property damage
Lost productivity
Insurance-related costs

Common causes of these crashes include distracted driving, driving under the influence, and speeding.

An experienced Houston car accident attorney can help victims navigate this high-risk environment, protect their rights, and seek fair compensation.

Common Causes of Car Accidents in Houston

Houston’s roadways are filled with hazards. Many crashes result from preventable actions or unsafe driving behaviors. Identifying the most common causes helps explain why serious injuries happen so often on local roads.

Distracted Driving

This is one of the top causes of crashes in Houston. It includes texting, using mobile devices, eating, or adjusting in-car systems. Texting while driving increases crash risk by up to 23 times, according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA).

Drunk Driving

Harris County reports high numbers of alcohol-related accidents every year. Alcohol slows reaction time, impairs judgment, and increases the chance of fatal injuries.

Speeding

Speeding is especially common on major roads like Beltway 8, I-10, and Westheimer. Driving above the speed limit reduces stopping distance and control, making crashes more severe. Texas leads the nation in speeding-related deaths.

Aggressive Driving

Behaviors such as tailgating, running red lights, and sudden lane changes are common in Houston’s heavy traffic. These aggressive actions raise the risk of multi-vehicle collisions.

Inexperienced Drivers

Teen drivers and those new to driving often misjudge speed, ignore blind spots, or fail to yield. These mistakes are frequent near schools, intersections, and residential areas.

Poor Weather Conditions

Rain, fog, and flooding reduce visibility and traction. Wet roads increase braking distance and contribute to rear-end crashes and highway pileups, especially during storms.

Vehicle or Road Defects

Some accidents result from external conditions—potholes, broken signals, poor lighting, or faulty road design. If a city or agency like TxDOT had prior notice of a road hazard, they may share liability.

Fatigue and Drug Impairment

Driving while drowsy or under the influence of drugs, including prescriptions, reduces alertness and control. These crashes often happen during late-night or early-morning hours.

Our Houston car accident lawyers use traffic data, dashcam footage, black box records, and police reports to investigate fault. This evidence is essential when building strong personal injury claims.

Types of Car Accident Cases We Handle in Houston

Car accidents vary in severity and cause. Our Houston car accident lawyers handle a wide range of cases, from minor impacts to fatal collisions. Below are the main types of accidents we regularly investigate and litigate:

Rear-End Collisions:

These crashes often occur in traffic on major roads like I-10 or I-45. They usually involve a trailing driver hitting the back of another car due to distraction, tailgating, or sudden stops. Even at low speeds, rear-end crashes can cause whiplash or spinal injuries.

Head-On Collisions:

These are among the most severe accidents, typically happening on undivided roads when a driver drifts into oncoming traffic. High speeds often lead to serious or fatal injuries, including internal damage and brain trauma.

T-Bone Accidents (Side Impact):

These occur at intersections when one driver strikes the side of another vehicle—often due to red light violations or failure to yield. Side impacts frequently injure passengers seated on the struck side.

Sideswipes:

These happen when two cars brush sides while traveling in the same direction, often during lane changes. While often low-impact, sideswipes can lead to secondary crashes or loss of vehicle control.

Multi-Vehicle Pileups:

Chain-reaction crashes involve three or more vehicles and usually occur in traffic or poor weather. Determining fault in these cases is complex, involving multiple insurance companies.

Rollovers:

Vehicles like SUVs and pickups are prone to rollovers after sharp turns or overcorrections. These crashes can lead to severe injuries or ejection from the vehicle.

Hit-and-Run Accidents:

When a driver flees the scene, victims may rely on uninsured motorist coverage. We investigate and help identify liable parties where possible.

Intersection Accidents:

Common causes include running red lights, improper turns, or failing to yield. These often result in T-bone or head-on collisions.

Accidents in Work Zones:

Construction zones involve lane changes, signage confusion, or reduced speed zones. Liability may involve drivers, contractors, or government agencies.

Rideshare Accidents (Uber, Lyft):

Liability depends on the driver’s app status. We handle cases involving Uber or Lyft insurance policies, which range from limited to $1 million in coverage depending on whether a passenger was present.

Our Houston car accident lawyers specialize in these complex claims, protecting your rights against attempts by rideshare companies to shift blame or limit payouts.

Fatal Car Accidents (Wrongful Death):

Surviving family members may pursue compensation for medical bills, funeral costs, lost income, and emotional loss after a fatal crash. We handle these claims with care and urgency.

Accidents While Working:

If injured while driving for work, you may have a workers’ comp claim and possibly a third-party claim against another driver. We assess all legal options to maximize compensation.

Undocumented Victims:

Immigration status does not affect your right to compensation in Texas. We file motions to exclude immigration questions and use interpreters to support your case.

Suing the City of Houston:

You may sue the city if poor road conditions or public vehicles caused the crash. Under the Texas Tort Claims Act, a claim must be filed within 6 months. Compensation is capped at:

$250,000 per person
$500,000 per incident for bodily injury
$100,000 for property damage

Vehicle Defect-Related Accidents:

Crashes caused by tire blowouts, brake failures, or steering issues may result in a product liability case. We pursue claims against manufacturers when faulty components cause injury.

Uninsured & Underinsured Motorist Accidents:

If the at-fault driver has insufficient coverage, we help clients file claims through their UM/UIM policies to recover damages.

Common Injuries After a Car Accident

Car accidents can cause serious harm beyond vehicle damage. Some injuries may not show symptoms immediately, so always get a medical evaluation to protect your health and document your condition.

Houston car accident lawyers often handle cases involving these common injuries:

Soft Tissue & Whiplash Injuries:

Common in rear-end crashes, whiplash results from sudden head movement causing neck pain and stiffness. Symptoms may appear later and lead to long-term discomfort.

Head & Brain Injuries:

Impact with a window, steering wheel, or airbag can cause concussions or traumatic brain injuries (TBI). Signs include confusion, memory loss, headaches, and vision changes. Children may show vomiting or fussiness. These injuries may require long-term care.

Spinal Injuries:

Damage to vertebrae, spinal cord, or nerves can cause numbness, pain, tingling, or paralysis. Treatment might include surgery or rehabilitation. Universal Law Group secured $250,000 for a client with a herniated cervical disc.

Broken Bones:

High-speed or side-impact crashes often cause fractures in arms, legs, ribs, or collarbones. Injuries range from simple breaks to compound fractures needing surgery. These cases often lead to substantial compensation.

Pregnancy-Related Injuries:

Even minor crashes can harm mother and fetus. Risks include placental abruption, uterine trauma, preterm labor, and seatbelt injuries. Texas law allows claims for medical care, emotional distress, future complications, and wrongful death.

Penetrating Injuries:

Cuts or punctures from debris or glass risk infection, nerve damage, and blood loss.

Internal Injuries:

These hidden injuries affect organs like the liver, spleen, lungs, or bowels. Warning signs include abdominal pain and dizziness. Immediate emergency care is critical.

Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD):

Accident trauma can cause anxiety, depression, or PTSD. Compensation claims for emotional distress require proof the condition stems directly from the crash and impacts daily life. Universal Law Group has recovered damages for clients with PTSD.

According to TxDOT, Houston saw over 169,000 crash-related injuries in 2023, with nearly 185 crashes daily. High-risk areas include the 610 Loop and I-45, part of Houston’s High Injury Network.

How Much Is My Car Accident Claim Worth?

No two car accident claims are identical. Your claim’s value depends on your injuries, treatment costs, lost wages, and how the crash affects your life long-term.

Factors Affecting Claim Value:

Key considerations include:

How severe are your injuries? Serious or long-term injuries increase claim value.
Will you fully recover, or suffer permanent effects like chronic pain or disability?
Did the crash worsen a pre-existing condition?
Can you return to work soon, or face extended income loss?
What out-of-pocket expenses have you incurred?
Will you need future treatment, such as surgery or rehabilitation?
How has the accident impacted your daily life and enjoyment?

Other factors include:

The strength of evidence supporting your claim.
Whether you share any fault in the accident.
The amount of insurance coverage available.
How the accident happened.
Whether a person or company caused the crash.
The skill and reputation of your Houston car accident lawyer. Experienced firms known for taking cases to trial often recover higher settlements.

Why Documentation Matters:

Clear records maximize your recovery. Keep all medical bills, pay stubs, receipts, and treatment notes. These prove your losses and justify your compensation request. Your lawyer will also gather accident reports, photos, witness statements, videos, and repair estimates as evidence.

Types of Damages You Can Recover:

Texas uses a fault-based system. The at-fault driver pays damages. If you are partially at fault, your compensation reduces by your percentage of fault—if it’s under 50%.

Damages fall into three categories:

Economic Damages:
Medical bills (past and future), lost wages, property damage, out-of-pocket costs, in-home care, and replacement services.
Non-Economic Damages:
Pain and suffering, mental anguish (including PTSD), permanent injury, loss of enjoyment, and disability.
Punitive Damages:
Awarded only in cases of extreme negligence or intentional harm, like drunk driving, to punish the wrongdoer.

Average Case Values

The National Safety Council reports:

Cases with “possible injury” average $160,000.
Cases with “disabling injury” average over $1.2 million.
Fatal crash cases may allow wrongful death claims for families.

How Much Does a Houston Car Accident Lawyer Cost?

Hiring a Houston car accident lawyer should not add financial stress. Our attorneys work on a contingency fee basis, meaning you pay no legal fees unless we win your case—no win, no pay.

There are no upfront costs. We cover all case expenses, including investigations, expert consultations, and court filings. This lets you focus on treatment and recovery while we handle your claim.

We value transparency. During your free consultation, we clearly explain all fees and the payment structure, so you understand what to expect and can make informed decisions throughout the process.

Key Car Accident Laws in Texas

Understanding Texas car accident laws is vital to protect your rights and secure fair compensation. Here are the main rules that affect your case:

Statute of Limitations:

You have two years from the crash date to file a lawsuit. Missing this deadline usually means losing your right to sue, even with strong evidence. Claims against government entities often have shorter deadlines. Act promptly to preserve evidence and protect your claim.

Texas Is an At-Fault State:

The driver responsible for causing the accident must pay for the damages.

Modified Comparative Fault:

You can recover damages even if partly at fault, as long as your fault is 50% or less. Compensation reduces by your share of fault. For example, 30% fault means you recover 70% of damages.

Proving Negligence:

To win a claim, you must prove:

The other driver had a duty to drive safely.
They breached that duty (e.g., speeding, texting).
Their breach caused your crash and injuries.
You suffered actual damages (medical bills, lost wages).

Proof requires a “preponderance of the evidence,” meaning it’s more likely than not they caused your injuries.

Duty of Care: The other driver had a legal duty to drive safely.
Breach of Duty: They failed to meet that duty (e.g., by texting, speeding, or running a red light).
Causation: Their actions directly caused your crash and injuries.
Damages: You suffered actual losses as a result of the accident, such as medical bills or lost income. Negligence must be proven by a “preponderance of the evidence,” meaning it’s more likely than not that the other party caused your injuries.

Required Minimum Coverage in Texas:

Drivers must carry at least:

$30,000 per injured person.
$60,000 per accident for bodily injury.
$25,000 for property damage.

Recommendation for Additional Coverage:

Minimum insurance may not cover severe accidents. Consider:

Personal Injury Protection (PIP).
Uninsured/Underinsured Motorist (UM/UIM) coverage.
Collision coverage.
MedPay and comprehensive coverage.

How Long Will a Car Accident Case Take in Houston?

The timeline for a car accident case varies based on the case details. Some settle quickly; others take longer.

Factors Influencing Case Duration:

Medical Treatment Length: Serious injuries require longer treatment. Your Houston car accident lawyer will wait until you reach Maximum Medical Improvement (MMI) before negotiating, to include future medical costs.
Disputed Liability: If fault is contested, the case becomes more complex and takes more time.
Insurance Cooperation: Some insurers delay or offer low settlements, especially without an attorney advocating for you.
Case Complexity and Injury Severity: Severe injuries needing expert opinions or long-term care extend the process.
Litigation Needs: If a fair settlement is not reached, filing a lawsuit can add months or years.

Typical Timeframes:

Minor crashes with clear fault: 1 to 3 months.
Soft tissue injuries or ongoing treatment: 3 to 6 months.
Severe injuries requiring surgery or causing disability: 6 to 12+ months.
Lawsuits due to disputes or low offers: 12 to 24 months or more, depending on court delays and case complexity.

Notable Car Accident Settlements & Client Testimonials

Our Houston car accident lawyers have a track record of securing favorable outcomes for our clients. We have successfully settled thousands of cases and recovered millions for injured Texans. We believe in demonstrating our effectiveness through concrete results and the positive experiences of those we’ve helped.

$875,000

Recovered after a rear-end collision with a commercial truck

Injury: Lower back injury requiring spinal injections
Attorney: Brian Nguyen
Strategy: Our client was rear-ended on I-10 by a box truck traveling at high speed. The trucking company initially denied fault. We secured traffic camera footage, subpoenaed driver logs, and used a biomechanical expert to connect crash force to spinal trauma.

“I didn’t even know where to start after the crash. Brian walked me through every step. The settlement helped me get my life back.” – M.A., Houston

$190,000

Recovered in a car accident claim involving a child

Injury: Broken leg and emotional trauma (minor child)
Case Manager: Kaylin Wang
Strategy: A distracted driver ran a stop sign in Westbury and struck our client’s vehicle. The child passenger required emergency surgery. We worked closely with pediatric specialists and mental health professionals to document long-term effects. Structured settlement was arranged for future care.

“Kaylin treated our family with so much respect. She never let us feel like just another case.” – Parent of minor client

$250,000

Recovered after a driver was rear-ended by a commercial vehicle

Injury: Herniated cervical disc and PTSD
Case Manager: Kaylin Wang
Strategy: This I-69 accident involved a delivery van that rear-ended our client during rush hour. The defense disputed injury severity. We used medical imaging, treatment records, and expert testimony from a psychiatrist to prove both physical and emotional damage. Case settled just before trial.

“Kaylin fought for everything—he even helped me find a therapist after the crash. I felt heard.” – J.S., Houston

Why Choose Universal Law Group?

Choosing the right legal team after a car accident affects your recovery and compensation. Universal Law Group offers experience, accessibility, and client-focused service to support you fully.

Proven Injury Law Experience:

Over 40 years of combined Texas personal injury law experience.
Hundreds of successful car accident claims in Harris County.
Millions recovered for Houston drivers, passengers, and pedestrians.

Exceptional Accessibility:

Available 24/7 for calls after a crash.
Bilingual staff to assist Spanish-speaking clients and ensure clear communication.

Recognized Legal Excellence:

Founding attorney Anissah Nguyen named to Texas Super Lawyers® Rising Stars List (2021–2025), an honor for less than 2.5% of Texas lawyers.
Fellow of the Texas Bar Foundation, awarded to only one-third of 1% of Texas attorneys annually.
Licensed in all Texas state courts and federal courts in Southern and Western Districts of Texas.
Active member of the Texas Trial Lawyers Association.

Dedicated Team Expertise:

Led by Attorney Brian Nguyen with decades of trial experience.
Senior Case Manager Kaylin Wang ensures clear, urgent, and caring case management.
Trial-tested litigators ready to take cases to court if needed.
Local Houston knowledge of roads, insurers, and courts benefits your claim.

Client-Centric Philosophy:

Focused on achieving the outcome you need.
Handle every case with care, urgency, and respect during difficult times.
Motto: “We Handle the Work, You Focus on Healing,” relieving your legal stress so you can recover.

Choosing Universal Law Group means gaining a committed Houston car accident lawyer team ready to protect your rights and secure the best results for your future.

Car Accident FAQs

This section addresses common concerns following a car accident, offering clear answers to help you navigate the process.

What if I was injured as a passenger?

If you were injured as a passenger in a crash, you should seek medical attention immediately. Even if symptoms are delayed, medical records help link your injuries directly to the accident. Under Texas law, passengers can file injury claims against the at-fault party’s insurance, which could be the driver of the car you were in, another driver involved in the crash, or both drivers if they share responsibility.

In Texas’s fault-based system, passengers are rarely blamed unless they directly caused the crash. Insurers may try to delay or deny your claim, but a Houston car accident lawyer can help prove who was responsible. You may also use your own insurance if needed, with policies like Personal Injury Protection (PIP), MedPay, or Uninsured/Underinsured Motorist (UM/UIM) potentially covering medical bills or lost wages while your claim is processed.

Compensation for passengers may include medical expenses, lost wages or job time, pain and suffering, future medical care, and emotional distress. A lawyer can handle the investigation, gather evidence, manage paperwork, and negotiate with insurers, or take your case to court if necessary.

What if I needed emergency care but don’t have health insurance?

You can still receive medical treatment and pursue a claim even if you do not have health insurance. Texas law allows injured drivers to recover the cost of necessary care from the at-fault party. Your Houston car accident lawyer can help connect you with providers who accept delayed payment through a letter of protection, enabling you to focus on recovery without upfront costs.

What happens if my car is totaled in the crash?

If your vehicle is declared a total loss, the at-fault driver’s insurance company must pay you the car’s actual cash value before the crash. This value reflects the market price based on the car’s age, mileage, and condition. Legal teams can help clients challenge lowball offers and seek full payment for their losses, including rental costs and towing fees.

Can I still file a claim if the at-fault driver has no insurance?

Yes, you may still have options if the at-fault driver is uninsured or underinsured. You may file a claim through your own uninsured/underinsured motorist (UM/UIM) coverage if you carry it. You can also explore other recovery options, including filing a personal injury lawsuit against the driver. A lawyer can review your policy and identify every path to compensation.

What’s the difference between a minor and serious injury under Texas law?

A minor injury might involve soft tissue damage or bruising. In contrast, a serious injury typically includes broken bones, spinal trauma, brain injury, or any condition that results in long-term impairment or disfigurement. Serious injuries affect case value and may justify higher compensation for medical care, lost wages, and pain.

Should I accept the first insurance offer?

No, you should not accept an insurance offer before speaking with an attorney. Insurance companies often make low offers soon after a crash, hoping to settle quickly and cheaply. These early offers rarely cover all your costs, especially if you are still undergoing treatment. Insurers are trained to deny claims or offer the least amount of money possible, using tactics to reduce your claim.

Instead, let an experienced Houston car accident lawyer handle the claim. Your attorney can assess the full value of your injuries, losses, and long-term needs, then negotiate a fair settlement—or take the case to court if needed. Even talking to the insurance company without an attorney can potentially damage your case.

What documents should I keep to prove my damages?

To prove your damages and support your demand for full compensation, it is crucial to keep clear records and save all relevant documents. These include:

Medical bills and treatment notes.
Health and auto insurance records.
Pay stubs (to prove lost wages).
Photos of injuries and car damage.
Receipts for out-of-pocket expenses.

What if someone crashed my car and they’re not on my insurance?

Most insurance policies cover drivers you give permission to use your car, even if they are not specifically listed on your policy. However, this depends on your specific policy. If the unlisted driver was at fault, your insurance may still pay, but you will likely face a deductible and possibly higher rates.

What injuries are considered “serious” after a crash?

Common serious injuries after a crash include:

Broken bones.
Spinal damage (e.g., herniated discs, spinal cord injuries).
Internal bleeding or internal organ damage.
Brain injuries (e.g., concussions, traumatic brain injuries (TBI)).
Burns or disfigurement.
Paralysis.
Amputations.
Fatal injuries.

Contact Us Today for a Free Case Review

If you’ve been injured in a car crash, you don’t have to navigate the aftermath alone. The Houston car accident lawyers at Universal Law Group are ready to handle every step of the process, from filing your claim and dealing with insurers to fighting for full compensation.

We offer a free consultation to review your case, explain your rights, and answer your questions. There is no obligation, and you pay no fee unless we win your case. This means you don’t have to worry about upfront costs or legal fees. Our team only gets paid when we successfully recover compensation for you.

To get started, you can call us directly at (832) 767-0339 or request your free case review online today. Our physical office is located in Houston’s Westchase District at 10350 Richmond Ave., Suite 450.

Universal Law Group is trusted by accident victims across Houston, providing legal assistance whether you are recovering from serious injuries or dealing with an insurance dispute.