Houston Car Accident Lawyers

A serious car accident can change your life in seconds. Medical bills can pile up, your car may be totaled, and insurance adjusters may call before you feel ready. At Universal Law Group, our Houston car accident lawyers handle the legal process from the first claim through settlement or trial.

What You Can Do Today to Protect Your Claim

• Get medical care and follow your doctor’s plan, even if symptoms feel mild.
• Save evidence such as photos, witness names, and the crash report number.
• Avoid recorded statements and quick settlement offers before you understand your injuries.
• Track costs such as bills, missed work, prescriptions, and mileage to appointments.
• Talk to a lawyer early so deadlines and insurance tactics do not derail your case.

Key Ways a Houston Car Accident Lawyer Helps:

• Investigates your accident and gathers evidence to prove fault
• Handles insurance communication to protect you from low offers
• Calculates full damages, including future medical care and lost earning capacity
• Negotiates for fair compensation or prepares your case for trial
• Works on contingency, so you pay no attorney’s fee unless the firm wins compensation

Our team is led by Attorney Brian Nguyen, a Houston native known for direct communication and focused advocacy. The firm has resolved thousands of injury cases across Texas. We do not charge attorney’s fees unless compensation is recovered. (Clients may still be responsible for certain case costs and expenses.) Contact us for a free consultation or call (832) 767-0339.

Texas uses an at-fault insurance system, which means the driver who caused the crash is responsible for damages. Learn more about insurance requirements under Texas Transportation Code §601.072.

What a Houston Car Accident Lawyer Does for Your Claim

After a crash, most people assume the insurance company will handle everything fairly — but that rarely happens. Adjusters work to protect their company’s bottom line, not your recovery. A skilled attorney makes sure your claim reflects the full cost of your injuries, property loss, and emotional distress.

The Houston car accident lawyers at Universal Law Group manage every step of your case. We gather evidence, review police reports, and work with medical professionals to prove the extent of your damages. Our team also handles all communication with the insurer, helping clients understand the claims process and avoid common insurance pitfalls.

According to the Texas Department of Insurance, drivers often face delays or underpayment when filing claims on their own. Legal representation can help protect a client’s interests during the claims process.

If you’re uncertain whether your situation requires an attorney, start with a free case evaluation. Our team will review your case and explain your options clearly, with no obligation.

 

Meet Brian Nguyen, Houston Car Accident Attorney

Founding attorney Brian Nguyen leads Universal Law Group with a clear purpose — to protect Houston families after life-changing accidents. A native Houstonian and proud advocate for his community, Brian approaches each case with the focus and integrity that injury victims deserve.

He has earned a reputation for straightforward communication, strong negotiation skills, and an unwavering commitment to seeking compensation based on the facts and circumstances of each case. Under his leadership, Universal Law Group has experience handling serious injury and car accident cases across Texas.

Brian’s work extends beyond the courtroom. He mentors younger attorneys and ensures every client receives the personal attention their case demands. You can learn more about his background and the firm’s philosophy on our About Us page or explore the full legal team on our Attorneys page.

Why Houston is a Hotspot for Dangerous Car Accidents

Houston, a sprawling metropolis and a major transportation hub, unfortunately, lives up to its reputation as one of the most dangerous cities in Texas for car accidents. Our dense population, coupled with extensive urban sprawl and a complex network of highways, creates conditions ripe for collisions. The sheer volume of traffic means more opportunities for accidents to occur.

These accidents aren’t evenly distributed across the city. Car wrecks are particularly prevalent around the 610 Loop, I-45, and other segments of what’s known as Houston’s High Injury Network—a small portion of streets responsible for over half of the city’s serious crashes. The economic impact of these motor vehicle crashes in the Houston metropolitan area exceeds $6.5 billion annually, a burden that often falls disproportionately on accident victims. With one reported car crash every 59 seconds in Texas and a fatal collision every two hours and 21 minutes on our roadways, the need for vigilance and legal protection is undeniable.

What to Do After a Car Accident in Houston

The moments after a car accident can feel overwhelming. The steps you take right away can affect your safety, medical recovery, and ability to pursue compensation. Use the guidance below to protect your health and your claim.

Ensure Safety and Call 911

Check yourself and any passengers for injuries. Call 911 if anyone is hurt or if vehicles block traffic. Texas law requires reporting crashes that involve injury, death, or apparent property damage over $1,000. See the Texas Transportation Code for details.

Seek Medical Attention as Soon as Possible

Adrenaline can hide symptoms after a crash. Injuries such as whiplash, concussions, or internal trauma may appear hours or days later. Seeing a doctor within 24 hours creates medical records that connect your injuries to the accident.

Document the Crash Scene

If it is safe, take photos or videos of vehicle damage, license plates, road conditions, traffic signs, weather, and visible injuries. This evidence can play a key role in proving fault.

Exchange Driver and Witness Information

Collect names, contact details, insurance information, and driver’s license numbers from everyone involved. Ask witnesses for contact information in case statements are needed later.

Cooperate With Police and Obtain a Crash Report

Provide accurate information when officers arrive. A police report documents the crash and may include an initial fault assessment. Reports are typically available through the Texas Department of Transportation.

Avoid Admitting Fault at the Scene

Do not apologize or make statements that could be taken as accepting blame. Even casual remarks can be used by insurance companies to reduce or deny your claim.

Common Causes of Car Accidents in Houston

Houston’s traffic congestion, fast-moving freeways, and distracted drivers make it one of the most dangerous cities to drive in. According to the Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT), Harris County records more crashes than any other county in the state each year. Most of these accidents are preventable — caused by negligence, recklessness, or poor driving habits.

1. Distracted Driving

Texting, using GPS, or adjusting in-car systems takes a driver’s eyes off the road. Texas law bans texting while driving, yet distracted driving remains one of the top causes of crashes across the state. Even a few seconds of inattention can result in serious collisions.

2. Drunk and Drug-Impaired Driving

Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs slows reaction time and impairs judgment. Harris County consistently leads Texas in alcohol-related crashes, many resulting in catastrophic injuries or fatalities.

3. Speeding and Aggressive Driving

Speeding is a leading factor in fatal collisions on highways like I-45, I-10, and Beltway 8. Aggressive behaviors such as tailgating, weaving through lanes, or running red lights often turn minor mistakes into devastating multi-vehicle crashes.

4. Fatigue and Drowsy Driving

Exhausted drivers are just as impaired as those under the influence. Late-night and early-morning crashes frequently involve drivers who fell asleep at the wheel, especially on Houston’s longer commutes and truck routes.

5. Poor Road and Weather Conditions

Heavy rain, flooding, and debris on the road contribute to many local accidents. When dangerous conditions are made worse by poor maintenance or inadequate signage, government agencies may share liability for resulting damages.

6. Inexperienced or Uninsured Drivers

New or uninsured drivers often underestimate traffic speed or fail to yield. Victims injured by uninsured motorists may still recover compensation through UM/UIM coverage or other legal options.

Each of these factors can establish negligence in a personal injury claim. A detailed investigation by your attorney helps determine fault and strengthens your case for compensation.

Types of Houston Car Accident Cases We Handle

Every crash is different. The injuries, damage, and legal issues depend on how the collision occurred. The Houston auto accident attorneys at Universal Law Group handle all types of motor vehicle accidents, from routine claims to complex litigation involving multiple vehicles or commercial carriers.

Our practice includes:

• Rear-end and T-bone collisions — Often caused by distracted or aggressive drivers. Learn more in our guides to rear-end collisions and T-bone accidents.

• Head-on crashes — Among the deadliest types of wrecks, frequently linked to drunk or wrong-way driving. See our page on head-on collisions.

• Rideshare and commercial vehicle accidents — Cases involving Uber, Lyft, or corporate fleets often require special insurance investigations. Learn about your options after a rideshare accident or commercial vehicle crash.

• Drunk driving accidents — Victims can pursue claims against both the driver and any bar or business that served them under Texas’ dram shop law.

• Multi-vehicle and chain-reaction collisions — Common on Houston’s congested freeways, these cases often require expert reconstruction. See more about multi-vehicle accidents.

• Wrongful death claims — Families may seek justice and financial relief after losing a loved one. Learn more about your rights under Texas law on our wrongful death attorney page.

Whether your accident happened on a major highway or a neighborhood street, our attorneys can investigate fault, handle the insurer, and pursue compensation supported by the facts of your case.

Common Injuries After a Houston Car Accident

Even low-speed collisions can cause injuries that require long-term care. Many accident victims feel fine at first, only to develop symptoms hours or days later. Seeking medical attention right away protects your health and strengthens your claim.

1. Whiplash and Soft Tissue Injuries

Whiplash is one of the most common results of rear-end collisions. Sudden neck movement strains muscles and ligaments, causing stiffness, headaches, and limited motion. Learn more about how these injuries are evaluated on our whiplash injury page.

2. Back and Spinal Cord Damage

The force of impact can compress or fracture the spine, leading to nerve pain, herniated discs, or even paralysis. Our back and spinal injury lawyers help victims document medical evidence to support claims for these complex cases.

3. Traumatic Brain Injuries (TBI)

Concussions and TBIs occur when the head strikes an object or experiences a rapid jolt. Symptoms may include confusion, dizziness, or loss of consciousness. For more information, see our TBI and concussion resources.

4. Broken Bones and Fractures

Fractures often happen in high-impact crashes or when airbags deploy. Victims may suffer broken ribs, arms, or legs that require surgery and rehabilitation. Read how our attorneys pursue compensation for broken bones and fractures.

5. Internal Organ Damage

Internal bleeding and organ injuries can be life-threatening if untreated. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) notes that internal trauma is a leading cause of delayed post-crash fatalities. Our internal organ injury page covers what to watch for and how claims are handled.

6. Psychological and Emotional Injuries

Accident trauma often extends beyond physical harm. Victims may experience anxiety, depression, or PTSD related to the crash. Texas law allows recovery for mental anguish when emotional suffering impacts daily life.

If you suspect any of these injuries after a crash, seek medical evaluation immediately. Early treatment not only helps recovery but also creates essential documentation for your case.

How Much Is a Houston Car Accident Claim Worth?

No two car accident claims are alike. The value of a case depends on injury severity, treatment needs, property loss, and how the crash affects your ability to work and enjoy daily life.

Our attorneys calculate damages by reviewing medical records, financial statements, and expert assessments to ensure every loss is documented and supported. Compensation may include:

• Medical expenses: Emergency treatment, rehabilitation, prescriptions, and long-term care.

• Lost income: Wages missed during recovery or reduced earning capacity due to lasting impairment.

• Property damage: Vehicle repair, replacement, or diminished value.

• Pain and emotional suffering: Anxiety, trauma, or reduced quality of life.

For context, the National Safety Council reports that a disabling car accident can result in economic losses exceeding $100,000, not including ongoing pain or future care needs.

When injuries such as spinal trauma, traumatic brain injuries, or fractures are involved, long-term recovery costs often make claims significantly higher.

Our goal is to pursue compensation that reflects the documented impact of your injuries and losses — not just the short-term costs insurers prefer to pay.

How Much Does a Houston Car Accident Lawyer Cost?

One of the biggest concerns for accident victims is often the cost of legal representation, especially when facing mounting medical bills and lost wages. We believe that everyone deserves access to quality legal help, which is why our Houston car accident lawyers work on a contingency fee basis.

• Contingency Fee Basis: We work on a contingency fee basis, which means you pay no attorney’s fees unless we win your case. Our fee is a percentage of the compensation we recover for you.
• No Upfront Costs: You will not have to pay any out-of-pocket costs to get started. We advance all case expenses, such as filing fees and expert witness costs. These are reimbursed from the settlement or award at the end of the case. This model ensures everyone has access to justice, regardless of their financial situation.

Key Texas Car Accident Laws

Understanding Texas car accident laws is essential for protecting your rights and knowing what compensation you may be entitled to. Several legal rules determine who pays for damages, how long you have to file, and how fault is assigned after a crash.

Texas Is an At-Fault State

Texas follows an at-fault insurance system. This means the driver responsible for the accident must pay for the resulting damages. In most cases, the at-fault driver’s insurance covers medical expenses, vehicle repairs, and other losses. If their coverage is insufficient, you may seek additional recovery through your own policy or by filing a lawsuit. You can learn more about claim types in our guide to Texas car accident liability.

Modified Comparative Fault

Under Texas Civil Practice & Remedies Code §33.001, you can still recover compensation if you were partly at fault—as long as your share of responsibility is 50% or less. Your total award will be reduced by your percentage of fault. For example, if you’re found 20% responsible for the crash, your compensation will be reduced by 20%.

Statute of Limitations

In Texas, you generally have two years from the date of the accident to file a personal injury or property damage claim. Missing this deadline usually means losing your right to seek compensation, so it’s important to act quickly after a crash.

Minimum Insurance Requirements

Texas law requires all drivers to maintain a minimum amount of liability coverage:

• $30,000 for bodily injury per person

• $60,000 for bodily injury per accident

• $25,000 for property damage

Drivers are encouraged to carry uninsured and underinsured motorist coverage to protect themselves if the at-fault driver has no insurance or too little coverage.

Reporting an Accident

If an accident causes injury, death, or property damage exceeding $1,000, Texas law requires you to report it to local law enforcement. The Houston Police Department accident report process explains how to obtain an official report, which can serve as crucial evidence in your claim.

When Government Liability Applies

If a crash involves a city, county, or state vehicle, different rules apply under the Texas Tort Claims Act. These cases have stricter notice deadlines and limits on recoverable damages.

How Long Does a Houston Car Accident Case Take?

The timeline for a car accident claim varies based on the injuries, the clarity of fault, and how long recovery takes. Some cases settle in a few months, while others take a year or more if a lawsuit is necessary.

Insurance companies often delay fair payments by disputing medical bills or liability. A skilled Houston car accident lawyer can manage these challenges and keep your claim on track.

If a settlement isn’t reached, your attorney may file a lawsuit. Under Texas Civil Practice & Remedies Code §16.003, you generally have two years from the crash date to file a personal injury claim. Once in court, the process can extend due to discovery, depositions, and trial scheduling.

At Universal Law Group, the goal is always efficiency without compromising results. The team uses clear communication and negotiation strategies informed by case facts and applicable law to help clients move their case forward while focusing on recovery.

What Can Delay a Case?

Several factors can extend the timeline of a car accident claim. Disputes over who caused the crash, ongoing medical treatment, or complex insurance investigations can all slow progress. Severe injuries often require months of recovery before the full extent of damages is known, which affects settlement discussions.

Cases involving multiple drivers, commercial vehicles, or government entities may also take longer due to added legal steps. If the insurance company acts in bad faith by delaying or denying valid claims, your attorney can take legal action under Texas Insurance Code Chapter 541.

Universal Law Group focuses on resolving these issues efficiently through proactive communication and firm negotiation, keeping clients informed while protecting their right to fair compensation.

The Challenges of Dealing with Insurance Companies

Perhaps one of the most frustrating aspects of recovering from a car accident is dealing with insurance companies. It’s easy to forget that these are for-profit businesses, and their primary concern is their bottom line, not your well-being. This creates significant challenges for accident victims:

• Lowball Settlement Offers: Insurers often make quick, low offers, hoping you’ll accept before you know the full value of your claim.
• Requesting Recorded Statements: Adjusters may ask for a recorded statement to use your words against you later. It’s best to decline until you’ve spoken with an attorney.
• Disputing Injury Severity: They may argue your injuries aren’t as severe as you claim or were pre-existing to reduce their payout.
• Delay Tactics: By dragging out the process, insurance companies hope you’ll become frustrated and accept a lower settlement.
• Blame Shifting: They will often try to shift blame onto you to reduce their liability under Texas’s comparative fault rule.

These tactics highlight why having an experienced Houston car accident lawyer on your side is not just beneficial, but often essential to protect your rights and secure fair compensation.

Frequently Asked Questions

How much does it cost to hire a Houston car accident lawyer?

Universal Law Group works on a contingency fee basis. You do not pay attorney’s fees unless compensation is recovered.
Clients may still be responsible for certain case costs and expenses.
Learn more on our contingency fee page.

Should I speak to the other driver’s insurance company?

Avoid giving a recorded statement or signing documents before you speak with a lawyer.
Insurers can use your words to reduce or deny your claim.
Your attorney can handle communication with the insurance company.

What happens if my car is totaled in the crash?

If the insurance company declares your car a total loss, it should pay the vehicle’s actual cash value from before the crash.
That value depends on the vehicle’s age, mileage, condition, and local market pricing.
A lawyer can challenge a low valuation and seek payment for related losses, such as towing and rental costs.

Can I file a claim if I was partly at fault?

Yes. Texas uses a modified comparative fault rule.
You can recover compensation if you are 50% or less responsible.
Your recovery drops by your percentage of fault.

Should I accept the first insurance offer?

You should not accept an offer until you understand the full cost of your injuries and recovery.
Early offers often miss future medical care, time off work, and pain and suffering.
A lawyer can review the offer, calculate damages, and negotiate for a fair amount.

What documents should I keep to support my claim?

• Medical bills, discharge papers, and treatment notes
• Health and auto insurance policy documents and claim letters
• Pay stubs or other proof of missed work and lost income
• Photos of injuries, vehicle damage, and the crash scene
• Receipts for out-of-pocket costs, including prescriptions and travel

What if the driver who caused the crash was not insured or did not have enough coverage?

You may still have options through uninsured or underinsured motorist coverage on your own policy.
You may also have other paths to recovery depending on who owned the vehicle and how the crash happened.
A lawyer can review coverage, deadlines, and claim strategy.

What injuries count as serious after a crash?

• Broken bones
• Spinal injuries, including herniated discs or spinal cord damage
• Internal bleeding or organ damage
• Brain injuries, including concussions and traumatic brain injuries
• Burns or scarring
• Paralysis
• Amputations
• Fatal injuries

Why Choose Universal Law Group?

When you’ve been injured in a car accident, your focus should be on healing. Our role at Universal Law Group is to handle the legal heavy lifting, ensuring you receive the maximum possible recovery. Our personalized, efficient, and responsive service, leveraging former prosecutor experience, means we’re prepared to fight relentlessly for you.

Experience handling personal injury cases under Texas law

With more than 40 years of combined experience in Texas personal injury law, the firm has handled a wide range of personal injury matters for drivers, passengers, and pedestrians across Harris County. Our attorneys handle a full range of collision cases — from truck accidents to rideshare crashes — with a record of handling cases in both settlement negotiations and trial settings.

Availability to assist clients throughout the claims process

The team is available 24/7 to assist you immediately after a crash. Universal Law Group also offers bilingual support for Spanish-speaking clients, ensuring clear and compassionate communication throughout every stage of the claim.

Professional recognition and bar-approved distinctions

Managing Partner Anissah Nguyen has been named to the Texas Super Lawyers® Rising Stars list (2021–2025), an honor given to fewer than 2.5% of attorneys statewide. She is also a Fellow of the Texas Bar Foundation, awarded to only one-third of 1% of Texas lawyers each year. The firm’s attorneys are licensed in all Texas state courts and in the U.S. District Courts for the Southern and Western Districts of Texas.

Dedicated Team Expertise

Attorney Brian Nguyen leads the car accident division, backed by senior case manager Kaylin Wang and a team of trial-tested litigators. Our local knowledge of Houston roads, insurers, and courts helps clients understand the legal process from day one.

Client-Centered Representation

Universal Law Group’s motto — “When Results Matter” — reflects our mission to relieve stress and protect clients’ rights.* We treat every case with care, urgency, and respect, ensuring clients receive clear guidance and consistent legal representation.

Choosing Universal Law Group means working with an experienced Houston car accident lawyer team dedicated to advocating for compensation supported by the facts of each case.

*This phrase reflects the firm’s commitment to client service and does not guarantee any specific outcome

Areas We Serve

Our car accident lawyers serve clients across the Greater Houston area and nearby communities from our office in the Westchase District. We regularly represent injured drivers, passengers, and families in Briarforest, Chinatown, Energy Corridor, Memorial, Gulfton, Sharpstown, Alief, Mid-West Houston, Spring Branch, Uptown / Galleria, Bellaire, West University Place, River Oaks, Downtown, Midtown, Montrose, The Heights, Northside, EaDo, Independence Heights, Acres Homes, Northwest Houston, Aldine, Greenspoint, East Houston, Kashmere Gardens, Fifth Ward, Greater Eastwood, Magnolia Park, Second Ward, South Park, Greater Hobby Area, Sunnyside, Southwest Houston, and South Acres / Crestmont Park.

ZIP codes served include 77042, 77063, 77057, 77056, 77036, 77072, 77077, 77079, 77082, 77083, 77099, 77084, 77094, 77024, 77025, 77027, 77046, 77054, 77074, 77081, 77096, 77098, 77019, 77007, 77008, 77009, 77018, 77055, 77092, 77040, 77064, 77065, 77091, 77093, 77016, 77020, 77021, 77033, 77045, 77047, 77048, 77051, 77061, 77075, and 77087.

If you were injured in a crash anywhere in Houston or Harris County, call (832) 767-0339 or request a free case review with a Houston car accident lawyer today.

Representative Case Results & Client Experiences

Past results do not guarantee future outcomes. Every case is different, and results depend on the specific facts, injuries, and legal issues involved.

Our Houston car accident lawyers have experience handling a wide range of injury claims for our clients. The firm has handled a large number of personal injury cases across Texas, with outcomes based on the individual facts of each matter. 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

Contact Us Today for a Free Case Review

Being involved in a car accident in Houston can turn your life upside down. You’re left to contend with physical pain, emotional distress, mounting medical bills, and lost income, all while trying to steer a complex legal and insurance system.

You don’t have to face these challenges alone. Our Houston car accident lawyers at Universal Law Group are dedicated to leveling the playing field and fighting for the justice you deserve. We bring personalized, efficient, and responsive service, leveraging our former prosecutor experience to maximize your settlement. We understand the local landscape, the legal intricacies, and how to effectively counter the strategies used to deny or minimize your rightful compensation.

Acting quickly is crucial. The two-year statute of limitations in Texas means time is of the essence. Let us protect your rights, handle the complexities, and fight to secure your future.

Call (832) 767-0339 anytime, day or night, to speak directly with a member of the team. You can also schedule your free consultation online through the contact page.

Universal Law Group’s office is located at 10350 Richmond Ave., Suite 450, Houston, TX 77042

All consultations are free and confidential. Whether you’re seeking help after a crash, a loved one’s injury, or an insurance dispute, the firm’s attorneys are here to handle the work — so you can focus on healing.