Houston Car Accident Lawyer

Houston Car Accident Lawyer

Hire a Houston car accident lawyer that goes above and beyond to provide a personalized experience. We understand that when you've been injured in a crash, every situation is unique, and we are here to recover maximum compensation for our clients.

Schedule a free consultation with a car accident lawyer in Houston at ULG today.

Fight for Your Future With a Car Accident Attorney On Your Side

Do You Need a Houston Car Accident Lawyer?

Our experienced attorneys fight for your best interests every step of the way.

The roads in Houston, TX, are notorious for how deadly and dangerous they are. As fellow Houstonians, we’ve seen the danger firsthand. If you were injured in a Texas car wreck that wasn’t your fault, our attorneys are ready to fight for the future you deserve. 

When someone else causes your car crash, a car accident lawyer in Houston at our firm can help you understand your rights. Moreover, we can protect them. 

We understand how stressful your situation is. That’s why our Houston car accident attorneys dedicate themselves to your case. When you work with our firm, we take the weight of your legal burden off your shoulders. 

As accident injury attorneys with decades of experience, Universal Law Group is the firm you need on your side. From seemingly simple cases to catastrophic pile-ups, we handle every type of car wreck claim. 

You deserve to have the best Houston car accident lawyer at your side in times of stress. We offer FREE consultations for motor vehicle accident claims, so don’t hesitate to learn more about your options. Contact our firm now to connect with a car accident lawyer near you.

Schedule Your FREE Consultation Today

At Universal Law Group, we handle a broad range of car accident cases. From product liability and care fires to multiple vehicle accidents, work with an experienced car crashes lawyer.

Fill out the form or call us at 832-767-0339.

    Testimonials

    “Katlin is the attorney who helped us with our traffic accident. She is very professional AND sweet. Got us fully covered with a very satisfied result. Thanks for the hard work.”
    – Bob J.

    “They were so helpful after my accident and got everything settled quickly and efficiently. I highly recommend contacting them for any law needs. If I could give more than 5 stars I would”
    – Sigourney L.

    houston car accident lawyer

    Why Work With Our Houston Car Accident Lawyers?

    Houston Car Accident Attorneys are not all equally qualified to handle your case. Please speak to one of our experienced auto accident attorneys at a free case evaluation today.

    A car collision in Houston is a complex situation for anyone and everyone involved. Suppose you fall victim to the negligence of another driver. Their insurance company should cover you, right? 

    Unfortunately, the insurance company is not on your side in this distressing time. As a company, its goal is to pay you the lowest settlement possible. That’s why you need an experienced auto accident attorney on your side. 

    When you or a loved one sustains injuries in a Texas car accident, you need to focus on healing. However, healing is an expensive process, and those bills quickly become a mountain of stress. From X-rays and MRIs to physical therapy, these medical expenses pile up. 

    But, if you didn’t cause the crash, why should you pay for someone else’s mistake? You might not know your rights, but that’s what our Houston car accident lawyer is here for! Let us help you understand your rights and maximize your settlement from the insurance companies.

    $140,000

    for a client rear-ended by a truck

    $190,000

    premises liability case involving a child

    $250,000

    commercial truck accident

    What to Do After a Car Accident

    If you are in a car crash, do your best to stay calm. Often, crashes are overwhelming experiences, but it’s important to remain calm and follow the steps below to the best of your ability. 

    In Texas, it is your legal responsibility to remain at the scene of an accident. If someone sustained an injury and needs emergency medical attention, call 911 and request an ambulance. Otherwise, tell the dispatcher that you were in an accident and wait for an investigating officer to arrive. 

    If you are in a hit-and-run accident, which is common with uninsured drivers, do not attempt to chase them. Instead, call the police immediately to provide a description of the individual, their vehicle, and the direction they went to the best of your ability.

    For drivers, write down their name, address, phone number, license plate number, and insurance information. Do not argue with the driver about who is at fault, and never make a statement that suggests you are fine or at fault. 

    If anyone witnessed the accident, get their contact information as well. This will help your Houston car accident lawyer gather evidence for your claim and build a foundation for your case.

    Take as many pictures and videos of the scene as you can. Include everything, from the damage to your vehicle and others to visible injuries. If there is any property damage, document that as well. 

    Memory fades over time. Before you lose track of the details, be sure to write down a detailed account of the accident. Include the time, location, road hazards, weather conditions, construction in the area, and any relevant information. 

    Even small details can help your car accident attorney better understand your situation.

    Even if you feel fine at first, it’s important to seek medical attention within 24 hours of the accident. With an evaluation by a licensed medical professional, you gain documentation of your condition and can identify injuries resulting from the accident. 

    In some cases, people don’t notice any symptoms or pain after an accident. Injuries, such as whiplash, concussions, and traumatic brain injuries, often have a delay in symptoms. Your doctor can help you better understand your condition. 

    Be sure to follow your doctor’s treatment plan and attend any follow-up appointments. If you wait too long to see a doctor or miss appointments, insurance companies see it as a red flag. Follow your doctor’s advice and let your Houston car accident lawyer handle the rest.

    Specifically, notify your insurance company that you were in a car accident. However, do not provide too much detail off the bat. Stick to the basic facts of the claim and let them know that they can contact your lawyer moving forward. 

    Schedule a consultation with an accident lawyer to review the details of your claim. Explain what happened in the collision, and your attorney will help you understand what legal options are available to you. 

    At Universal Law Group, our Houston car accident lawyers offer FREE consultations to victims. 

    After an accident, it’s common for the other driver’s insurance company to contact you. If they request a statement, politely decline. Simply refer them to your attorney, and our legal team will handle all communication and negotiation. 

    Never get into a discussion about fault or injuries with an insurance company’s investigator. Their goal is to find a statement that they can twist into a way to challenge, reduce, or deny your claim.

    When Should I Hire a Houston Car Accident Attorney?

    Even when you follow all the right steps after an auto accident in Houston, it’s normal to have questions. Some of these concerns need immediate answers. However, other questions may not occur to you for days or weeks. 

    So, when should you hire a car accident attorney in Houston? Here are a few things to consider as you evaluate your situation.

    If you or a loved one suffered injuries in a wreck, seek immediate medical attention. If you received care or someone did not survive the crash, contact our law firm as soon as you are able to. We can help you take a comprehensive look at the impact of your losses.

    Auto accidents can be messy, causing major damage to a vehicle. In some cases, it can total a vehicle. Houston is a commuter city, and you rely on your vehicle to get to work and school and to help your family and friends. Don’t suffer the cost of repairs or a new vehicle when someone else is at fault. 

    Additionally, you may have lost a phone, computer, or other belongings in the accident. You deserve full compensation from the insurance company of the party responsible. Our firm is here to help you. 

    Even relatively minor medical costs or out-of-pocket expenses are open to recovery from a car accident claim. Your health insurance company might not cover these expenses because they expect the other driver’s insurance policy to cover it. 

    We all know that medical bills range from a few hundred dollars to millions of dollars. It all depends on the level of care you need and the impact of your injuries on your future. In any case, you should call on a trusted Houston car accident lawyer to help you understand your rights.

    When another driver’s negligence causes an accident, you can file an insurance claim. Ideally, your settlement covers every cost that results from the accident. The total depends on a broad range of factors, including those below. 

    • Whether you are able to return to work
    • How much work you missed and the amount of income lost
    • Whether you require ongoing medical care, physical therapy, assistance, etc
    • The pain and suffering you experienced in the accident and as a result
    • Whether you have lasting disfigurement, disabilities, or impairments
    • The total cost of your medical expenses 
    • The severity of your injuries

    Schedule Your FREE Consultation

      How Much Does a Car Accident Lawyer Charge?

      One of the core reasons victims of car accidents never contact a personal injury lawyer in Houston is the cost. Unfortunately, they believe they cannot afford an experienced Houston car accident lawyer. However, that is simply not true. 

      In movies and TV shows, people see these executive attorneys who charge high hourly fees. At Universal Law Group, our personal injury team does not work that way. We believe that car accident victims deserve to receive money, not pay it out. 

      So, we handle every auto accident case on a contingency fee basis. That means that when you hire our Houston car accident attorneys, they don’t get paid until they WIN. 

      When we secure your settlement or verdict, you pay us a percentage of the money we win for you. No matter what your financial situation is, you deserve to fight for justice and compensation

      Contingency fees change from law firm to law firm, and we are happy to discuss how it works at your FREE consultation and evaluation.

      So, when should you hire a car accident attorney in Houston? Here are a few things to consider as you evaluate your situation.

      What Our Contingency Fee Means For You

      • Your consultation is FREE. 
      • When you hire our team, we cover all the costs of your case upfront. 
      • We charge no fees until we successfully gain compensation for your case. 
      • The payment comes out of the settlement, not from your accounts. 

      After a collision, you never have to have extra funds to hire a Houston car accident lawyer. Everyone can afford to hire the best car accident attorney in Houston to handle their claim.

      car accident attorney in houston

      Car Wreck Insurance Claims We Handle

      Auto injury law requires a specialized set of skills and knowledge, especially in a city like Houston, Texas. The auto accident attorneys at Universal Law Group have the experience necessary to handle a broad range of car accident claims. No matter what type of motor vehicle collision you experience, our Houston car accident lawyer is here to advocate for your best interests.

      Call Our Car Wreck Lawyers in Houston

      Have you or a loved one sustained an injury in a car accident? Worse, have you lost someone due to another’s negligence? The unfortunate truth is that any collision has the potential to alter your life. 

      Even a seemingly minor car accident can result in injury. As the severity rises, so does the risk. A faulty gas tank can result in vehicle fires and burn injuries. When a driver’s insurance coverage doesn’t provide enough, we seek out every negligent party, from auto dealers to parts manufacturers. 

      At Universal Law Group, we are the car accident lawyers Houston victims call to maintain stability in life. As your legal team, we bear the weight of your lawsuit and fight to alleviate the burden. Our goal is to reach the best possible settlement in your case so that you can move forward in life. 

      Too often, insurance companies and their insurance adjusters throw victims a lowball settlement offer. Instead of accepting too little, work with a Houston auto accident attorney who understands the true value of your claim. 

      If someone else’s negligence caused you harm, call our legal team to schedule your FREE consultation. See why we are the compassionate, aggressive representation you need to maximize your settlement.

      If you, a family member, or a loved one were the victim in a car accident in Houston, our personal injury lawyers are ready to fight. Our goal is to help you recover compensation that covers every cost resulting from your crash. With an experienced insurance claims lawyer on your case, you have an advocate to stand up to the insurance companies.

      Work With An Experienced Houston Car Accident Lawyer

      The Dangers of Texas Roadways

      Per the Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT), there were 15,299 injuries from crashes in Texas in 2022. Moreover, 1,030 people died in crashes that involved an intersection. The full death toll was 4,481 for motor vehicle incidents in 2022. 

      Unfortunately, there were zero deathless days.

      As drivers, we put our trust in our fellow Texans to follow the rules of the road. When they break that trust, the consequences are clearly dire. When someone causes your crash, you have rights, and you deserve the best car accident lawyer in Houston, Texas.

      Recovering Compensation After an Accident

      At Universal Law Group, we are a full-service personal injury law firm. We have the expertise and experience to help you recover the compensation you need and deserve. When a car wreck leaves you unable to work, we help you fight for a better future. 

      • Lost wages
      • Loss of companionship
      • Medical expenses 
      • Pain and suffering

      These are just some of the damages that we pursue on your behalf. If you cannot return to work, our firm is ready to help you fight for disability benefits, too. As your Houston auto accident attorney, we are your advocate, fighting for your best interests every step of the way.

      Contact Us

      10350 Richmond Ave. Suite 450 Houston 77042
      (+1) 832-767-0339
      info@ulg.law
      Mon - Fri. Everyday 8:30am - 5:00pm

      What If the Car Accident Wasn’t My Fault?

      Texas is a fault state for car insurance, and that means the person who caused the wreck is liable for paying damages. Simply put, this means that when someone else’s negligence causes your injury, it should entitle you to compensation. 

      Texas law requires that drivers carry car insurance that covers $30,000 for injuries per person, up to a total of $60,000 per accident, and $25,000 for property damage. This law provides you with a few ways to pursue compensation with your Houston car accident lawyer. Those options include the following. 

      • Filing a claim against the liable driver’s insurance company
      • Using your own insurance policy to file a claim
      • Filing a lawsuit against the liable driver

      It is also important to understand how Modified Comparative Fault comes into play in Texas. When drivers share fault, it reduces your compensation by the percentage of fault assigned to you. For instance, if the claim awards you damages of $40,000 but you share 10% of the fault for the car wreck, it reduces your claim by $4,000. 

      Houston car accident attorney

      Additionally, it’s critical to understand that recovering damages in this case requires that your percentage of fault is lower than the defendant’s. Still, fault is not always so straightforward. Our firm also handles claims against manufacturers who produce defective products, such as poorly produced parts or tires. When negligence on the part of manufacturers reduces the safety and reliability of a vehicle, a Houston auto accident attorney can hold them accountable. 

      What Makes a Car Accident Claim Strong?

      Numerous factors impact the strength of your car accident claim in Houston, TX. If you have questions about the validity of your claim, don’t hesitate to contact our firm and schedule a free consultation with a Houston motor vehicle collision attorney. 

      • Liability: When one person is over 50% responsible for an accident, they cannot pursue compensation. Instead, they are liable for any damages that result from the wreck. The clearer the liability, the stronger your claim is. 
      • Medical assessment & treatment: When you receive immediate medical attention, it helps to strengthen your claim. The earlier you seek treatment, the more clearly the assessment ties the injuries to the accident. Delays only allow room for skepticism. 
      • Consistent treatment: It is also crucial for you to follow your doctor’s treatment plan, including appointments and therapy sessions, whether physical or psychological. 
      • Property damage: When there is extensive damage to your vehicle and any belongings, insurers equate it with a severe accident. In turn, this improves your chances to collect maximum compensation. 
      • Permanent or severe injury: If you suffer a permanent or severe injury, it forces the insurance company to take your case seriously. That is why it’s crucial to understand your medical situation and follow a treatment plan. It helps you pursue more compensation before you settle. 
      • Evidence: Often, strong cases have a good foundation built on solid evidence. This includes statements from witnesses, police reports, and toxicology reports. The right evidence helps your Houston car accident lawyer win. 

      How Much Is My Houston Car Crash Claim Worth?

      What Is the Average Settlement for a Car Accident Claim in Houston?

      After an auto accident, people always want to one thing: How much will I get for my settlement? 

      Unfortunately, there’s no straightforward, universal answer to this question. The reality is that it depends on your specific circumstances. There are many questions to ask and factors to consider before you know the value of your claim. 

      Often, people have no idea what their claim is worth until they contact a Houston car accident lawyer for a consultation. So, the best way to understand the value of your claim is to schedule your FREE consultation. 

      auto accident attorneys in Houston, TX

      Medical Expenses After Auto Accidents

      One thing we do know is that U.S. medical care is incredibly expensive. Regardless of the severity of your injuries, the average cost of medical care is astronomical. Below are a handful of average costs for treatments that are common after car accidents.

      • Ambulance transport costs around $1,000. 
      • Emergency room visits cost anywhere from $1,000 to $20,000. 
      • Surgeries cost up to tens of thousands of dollars. 
      • Hospital stays average about $2,750 each night, if not more.  
      • Physical therapy, which can take years, can cost up to $350 per session.

      People who suffer injuries in a car crash may also require additional care, from MRIs and CAT scans, to ICU stays, home care, assisted living, new medical equipment, and more. Every client we represent faces different losses and different expenses. Whether you lose $1,000 or $10 million, you deserve compensation from the at-fault driver. 

      When someone else’s negligence causes your wreck, you need a Houston auto accident attorney ready to hold them accountable. Call us today to schedule a FREE evaluation. See why we are the ones to fight for the compensation you deserve. 

      Common Causes of Auto Accidents in Houston, TX

      Any experienced Houston car accident lawyer knows how many situations can lead to a wreck. The roads in Houston are among the most dangerous in Texas, and thousands of commuters move across the Greater Houston Area on a daily basis. 

      While many causes behind auto accidents amount to user error, it’s important to understand the risks of being on the road. Below, we detail some of the most common causes of car accidents in Houston. 

      One of the most common issues in accidents is speeding. The city posts speed limits to protect drivers, cyclists, and pedestrians alike. When negligent drivers speed, they are more likely to lose control of their vehicle. 

      Additionally, it reduces their response time in the event there’s an object in the road or traffic slows ahead of them. Any Houston car wreck lawyer knows how dangerous these situations are.

      houston auto accident attorneys

      Often, car wreck lawyers city this as a causes of both minor and severe collisions. Usually, distracted driving brings to mind people looking at their phones. However, distractions come in all shapes and sizes. 

      For example, two kids arguing in the backseat are a distraction for an exhausted appearance. Alternatively, someone might look down to change the song or adjust the fans. While momentary, they pull the driver’s attention from the road. 

      While Texas was slow to enact texting and driving laws, those are in place. Since mobile devices became more popular, they have been a major issue for Houston drivers. While a few seconds glancing at a phone might seem like no big deal, the driver’s attention is not where it should be. 

      houston motor vehicle collision lawyers

      When drunk drivers get behind the wheel, they put everyone else on the road in danger. You have rights and options if a negligent driver injures you in a DWI accident. Moreover, when a bar or restaurant overserves an intoxicated individual who causes your accident, you can hold them liable.

      Related Reading: Texas Dram Shop Law

      Both street and prescription drugs can potentially cause devastation in a motor vehicle accident. When a driver consumes anything that compromises their physical or mental capacity, it puts everyone in harm’s way.

      Animals are a part of our everyday lives in Houston. But, between our pets exploring the neighborhood and the critters hiding in the shadows, they also pose a risk to drivers. Moreover, nighttime poses a complex risk for wildlife-related incidents. 

      That’s because it’s harder to see a deer that jumps out from the trees. Auto accidents happen when any animal bounds in front of a vehicle. From cats and dogs to foxes, squirrels, and armadillos, animals don’t really  understand cars. 

      Additionally, when a large animal moves in front of a car, it forces drivers to swerve suddenly, forcing the vehicle off the road. Talk to our Houston car accident attorneys today to learn more about your legal options.

      houston tx car accident lawyers

      Houston is no stranger to inclement weather. From citywide freezes to rainstorms and hurricanes, rough weather conditions results in more auto accidents. When you hire a Houston car accident lawyer from our firm, you have an advocate who understands how a moment of low visibility can change your life. 

      Practicing common sense and safety is part of the duty of care we all owe each other on the road. When the roads are rough, we need to take extra caution.

      When a driver neglects to maintain their vehicle, it results in preventable accidents. Whether there’s transmission issue or a problem with the brakes, it impacts a driver’s ability to control their vehicle. When poor vehicle maintenance causes an accident that injures you or a loved one, you deserve to work with the best car accident lawyers in Houston.

      Houston Car Accident Lawyer FAQ

      After a car crash, it’s common to have questions. In this overwhelming situation, you need an advocate in an experienced car accident attorney. Below, we take a look at several common questions from victims. 

      If you suffered from someone else’s negligence and want to know your options, book a free consultation with our Houston car accident lawyer today. 

      If you work with a Houston car accident lawyer, they can help you understand the claim process. Part of that is understanding the police report for your accident. Unfortunately, it’s not always an easy document to navigate. 

      If you don’t have an auto accident attorney to break it down for you, we cover each page of the document below. When you want to purchase a copy of the Texas Peace Officer’s Crash Report (CR-3), it’s easy to do online. Purchase your crash report here

      Page 1: Details

      The first page of the accident report lays out the details of the collision. 

      • Date
      • Time
      • Location – county, city, street
      • Type of area – freeway, intersection, construction zone, etc. 

      Additionally, the page provides information about each driver and vehicle involved in the accident. This information is essential to your claim because it offers a foundation for fault. Lastly, this page has an injury code box, which offers a brief analysis of injuries sustained in the wreck. 

      Your Houston auto accident attorney uses this information to start the investigation of the collision. 

      Page 2: Charges and Crash Narrative

      On the second page, the responding officer details any charges filed against those involved. Then, they provide a crash narrative that details what happened, according to both parties and witnesses, and a diagram of the accident scene. 

      The narrative includes the order of events leading up to the crash. It also provides information about where people received medical care, from an ambulance that provides initial care to the hospital they go to. If anyone dies in the accident, or within 30 days, the officer lists their date and time of death as well. 

      At the end of the crash narrative, the officer provides an opinion on the cause of the accident. 

      Page 3: Commercial Vehicles 

      Page three details information on any commercial involved in the accident. For example, if you are hit by a box truck, they list the company’s information, including the name, address, and contact information. 

      Additionally, it provides detailed information about the cargo, weight of the vehicle, and the driver. 

      Page 4: Codes and Terms

      The final page of the accident report explains any codes and terms used. This is helpful in case there’s any aspect of the report you aren’t familiar with or a term used by the officer that is unfamiliar. 

      When you work with a Houston car accident lawyer from Universal Law Group, you have someone to explain the details of the report and answer your questions. By analyzing the details of the report from your accident, we assess liability and fault. Then, we start to build your case. 

      It all starts with an evaluation, and you can schedule a FREE case evaluation with our team to learn more about your options.

      No, you should never accept the immediate settlement an insurance company sends you. This is especially true if you haven’t had a chance to evaluate your losses. Here’s why. 

      • They don’t know your expenses now or in the future. 
      • Their main goal is to pay you as little as possible. 
      • You might not know your total damages yet. 
      • In a severe accident, you may require physical therapy, ongoing medical care, or other expenses the settlement should cover. 

      Often, insurance companies send victims a lowball offer because they want to pay out as little as possible. 

      If an insurance adjuster contacts you and offers you a settlement, politely inform them that you are currently seeking counsel and cannot accept the offer at this time. Then, you can contact the Houston car wreck lawyers at Universal Law Group. At your free consultation, we can explain the value of your case and help you understand what compensation you deserve.

      As Houston car accident lawyers, we understand how devastating a car wreck can be. Moreover, we understand how many factors inform the severity of injuries. Oftentimes, it depends on the number of vehicles, weather conditions, speed of the vehicles, and more. 

      For lucky victims, they feel better in a matter of days. However, some injuries take time to show their effect. When you experience a motor vehicle collision, it’s essential to seek medical assistance. 

      Whether you visit an emergency care center or your personal physician, it’s the only way to know the extent of your injuries. This is due to the shock people tend to feel after such a traumatic event. 

      After a car accident, the severity of injuries varies. Treatments range from over-the-counter pain medication to surgery, physical therapy, and a period of rest. Moreover, some injuries alter people’s lives. 

      When this happens, victims often live with chronic pain, disability, and other ongoing challenges. If a negligent driver causes you harm, it is imperative that you hold them accountable. At Universal Law Group, our Houston car accident lawyer helps injured Texans seek the justice and compensation they deserve. 

      Head and Brain Trauma

      One of the most severe forms of injury in an auto accident is a head injury. When you experience a sudden change in direction or an unexpected stop, it causes your head to move and jerk around. 

      In more unfortunate cases, it leads to someone’s head slamming against a window or steering wheel. Unfortunately, the more direct the injury is, the more severe it tends to become. One possible injury is a brain hemorrhage, brain bleed. 

      Another, more common, occurrence is a concussion. In both cases, a Houston car accident lawyer at Universal Law Group is ready to help you protect your rights. 

      Whiplash & Neck Injuries

      Oftentimes, the sudden impact of a collision causes your head and neck to move suddenly. This sudden motion leads to whiplash, a sprain in the neck. It also has the potential to cause other neck trauma. 

      Lacerations, Cuts, Scrapes

      Unsecured objects in the car have the potential to cause lacerations or scrapes. This comes from a broad range of objects, including books, phones, and drinks. When the impact is hard, some objects have the potential to break the skin and cause deep cuts. 

      As Houston auto accident attorneys, our legal team has seen a broad spectrum of severity in these injuries. When you travel with dangerous objects in your vehicle or collide with another that does, there’s too much potential for harm. That’s why it’s essential to hold negligent drivers accountable. 

      Chest Injuries

      Generally speaking, chest injuries take the form of a contusion or bruise. However, more severe injuries leave people with broken ribs and internal issues. Too often, drivers experience a chest injury after an airbag fails and their body collides with the steering wheel.

      Arm & Leg Injuries

      Similar to whiplash in the neck, sudden impact and motion has the potential to cause sprains and injuries in the arms and legs. Moreover, there’s the potential for your limbs to collide with the console, door, and other parts of the vehicle. 

      In some cases, victims’ knees hit the dashboard or another object, causing sprains, bruises, and scrapes. No matter the severity of your injury, trust our Houston car accident lawyer to help you. We strive to maximize your settlement to ensure you have what you need to move on in life. 

      Spinal Injuries

      The impact of an auto accident has the potential to cause damage to the spinal cord and vertebra. Compression trauma has lasting complications. In some cases, a severe injury paralyzes the victim. 

      Soft Tissue Injuries

      A soft tissue injury impacts the connective tissue in your body. Overall, this includes tendons, ligaments, and even muscles. 

      Unfortunately, this is the most common form of injury in a car accident. This is because these injuries take many forms. Among them, the most common is whiplash, which we mentioned earlier. 

      However, it extends to strains and damage throughout your body. For some, recovery is quick. But, other injuries are only manageable and continue to impact people’s lives. 

      Broken or Fractured Bones

      With proper medical attention, these injuries heal well. However, they cause a great deal of pain and take time to heal. Moreover, some have a lasting impact on your mobility and strength. 

      When a Houston car accident lawyer works to resolve your personal injury claim, we strive toward compensation that accounts for an array of changes in your life. 

      Traumatic Brain Injuries (TBI)

      The force of impact occasionally includes a blow to the head. In severe cases, objects even penetrate the skull. When you experience a TBI, the effect varies. 

      For some victims, it requires continued management while others suffer long-term cognitive issues. Unfortunately, it also has the potential to cause death. 

      Wrongful Death

      The most severe outcome of a car accident is a wrongful death. At times, this happens upon impact. However, some lose their lives as a result of their injuries. 

      Even with immediate medical attention, some victims succumb to their wounds in the hospital. When a negligent driver causes the death of your loved one, it’s important to remember your rights. Whether you want to hold them accountable or pursue compensation to protect your future, our Houston car accident attorneys have the expertise and experience to help. 

      Houston Auto Accident Lawyers Who Fight

      As car wreck attorneys in Houston TX, we strive to help our clients build a better foundation for their future. After a car wreck, your life may feel upended. Our goal is to attain the compensation you need to find even ground again. 

      Schedule a free case evaluation with our law firm in Houston, TX, today. Share your experience with us. From there, we help you understand your legal options.

      Auto accidents can happen anywhere, so it’s always best to be prepared. If you have been involved in an accident in or around Houston, Texas, our Houston auto accident attorneys are here to help.

      At Universal Law Group, we believe that no one should be punished for the negligence of another driver. Insurance companies will try to pay as little as possible, but our Houston car accident lawyer knows how to win you the compensation you deserve. 

      Don’t allow an insurance company to take advantage of you. Trust Universal Law Group to advocate for your rights. Call 832-767-0339 to schedule a free consultation with our Houston car accident attorneys today.

      Rear-End Collisions

      Read-end collisions are the most common type of auto accident. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, approximately 29% of all crashes are rear-end collisions. 

      This type of accident occurs when the front of one car collides with the back of another. A common cause of this is one car following another too closely and not leaving adequate room between vehicles, a process known as ‘tailgating.’ 

      When the leading car slows down (often due to traffic or a stoplight) the driver of the following car does not have time to react. Collisions of this type occur very frequently and can be dangerous for people in both vehicles.

      Head-On Collisions

      Head-on collisions are widely regarded as the most dangerous type of car wreck. There are two types of head-on collision: those involving other cars and those involving a stationary object. 

      Two cars might hit one another head-on if they are driving in opposite directions on the same street. 

      When one of the cars ignores road signage and enters the wrong lane, they may impact directly with the other car, causing a head-on collision that is highly dangerous to everyone involved. 

      A car might also end up in a head-on collision with a stationary object; for example, swerving off the road and hitting a tree. 

      Both of these types of auto accidents are often caused by drunk or distracted drivers. These crashes are often fatal, especially if the car or cars involved are traveling at high speeds.

      Side Impact or T-Bone Collisions

      Side impact collisions are accidents in which one vehicle crashes into the side of another. This is very dangerous for passengers, as there is little protection on the sides of a vehicle. Passengers on the side of a collision may be badly injured or even killed.

      A common type of side-impact collision is called a T-Bone collision. This is a specific type of crash that usually occurs at stoplights. One car runs a red light, causing them to collide perpendicularly with another vehicle in the middle of the intersection. 

      T-Bone collisions are notable for their high fatality rate; they are the second most deadly type of auto accident after head-on collisions.

      Contact our Houston car accident lawyer to learn more about your legal options.

      Rollover Accidents

      Rollover accidents have many different causes. The most common cause is a driver losing control of their vehicle, either by becoming distracted or by driving carelessly. 

      Drifting off the road, especially onto either a guardrail or a hill, can upset the center of balance and cause a car to roll over. This causes significant damage to both the car and the passengers inside.

      Other causes of rollover collisions include multi-vehicle accidents and sharp turns at high speeds. When an auto accident occurs, one car may hit another and cause it to tip over. 

      If a single car attempts to make sharp turns at unsafe speeds, the friction can cause it to roll over, especially in heavily loaded vehicles such as vans or trucks. Although there is no one cause for rollover accidents and they occur very infrequently, they can be highly dangerous when they do occur.

      Sideswipe Collisions

      Sideswipe collisions occur when two vehicles are traveling in the same direction side-by-side. One vehicle attempts to merge or to switch lanes, often without checking to make sure the other lane is clear. This causes the sides of both vehicles to strike against one another. 

      Although sideswipe collisions are less dangerous than some other types of auto accident and have a very low fatality rate, they can still be harmful to passengers in both vehicles.

      Schedule a Free Consultation with Our Auto Accident Attorneys in Houston, TX

      No matter which type of auto accident you were involved in, our attorneys at Universal Law Group can help. Our Houston car accident lawyers are highly experienced and know how to win you the compensation you deserve. 

      Call 832-767-0339 to schedule a free consultation today. If you are looking for Houston car wreck lawyers, look no further; Universal Law Group is here to help you.

      Even when you take the right steps after a collision, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed. Oftentimes, you have questions, and you want an answer quickly. 

      Some of them feel obvious and occur quickly. However, others take time to arise – days or even weeks after an accident. 

      Whenever you have questions about your crash, trust in a Houston auto accident attorney from Universal Law Group. As experienced Houston car wreck lawyers, we strive to provide transparent, pertinent information. 

      If you aren’t sure whether to work with an attorney, ask yourself the following questions. 

      Is anyone injured? Are there any fatalities?

      When you or someone you love sustains injuries in an auto accident, it’s essential to seek immediate medical care. The health of the victim is the top priority. 

      After you receive medical or if your loved one, unfortunately, did not survive the accident, contact our law firm as soon as possible. With an auto accident attorney on your side, you have an advocate to help you determine the full cost of those injuries.  

      Was there damage to the vehicles?

      Oftentimes, car accidents cause minor damage. However, some collision causes severe damage to your vehicle. Worse yet, serious accidents even total vehicles. 

      When you rely on your vehicle as your main form of transportation, it is essential. This is especially true in a commuter city like Houston, TX. If a negligent driver damages or totals your motor vehicle, you should not bear the financial burden of repairing or replacing that vehicle. 

      You deserve full compensation for this damage, and we can help. The negligent driver’s insurance company can cover those costs. Our car accident attorneys in Houston fight to maximize your settlement. 

      Did the police show up?

      Typically, Houston Police Department officers arrive at the scene of an accident. In many cases, the officer on site identifies whether anyone involved violated the law. One unfortunately common example in Texas is drunk driving. 

      In this instance, the police arrest and charge that person for a DWI. Additionally, they have the power to issue citations for running a red light, speeding, and an array of other traffic violations. 

      When this happens, it helps your Houston car accident lawyer prove who was at fault. This evidence helps our legal team leverage the settlement in your favor. 

      Do you have medical costs to cover?

      When you sustain no financial losses, there’s no compensation to collect from an insurance company. However, even with a relatively minor medical bill that you cover out of pocket, you have the right to recover compensation. 

      Medical bills from car wrecks range from a couple of hundred dollars and up into the millions. In either case, it’s important to work with experienced car accident lawyers in Houston. Our legal team has years of experience and knows how to build an accurate settlement demand. 

      We look to costs that some clients never think to consider. That’s because we want to ensure that you have everything you need to move on with your life and recover successfully. 

      What are my and the other driver’s legal responsibilities?

      When an accident results in injuries or property damage, state law requires that all drivers involved stop and stay at the scene. It’s essential to render the aid people need and exchange information. 

      After the accident, the responsibilities and rights of each driver depend on who is at fault. Any driver who didn’t act with negligence has the right to file an insurance claim against the negligent driver. 

      A driver that causes a crash needs to contact their own insurance company. The insurance provider bears the responsibility of reimbursing victims for their losses. Oftentimes, more than one person bears some level of fault. 

      In Texas, we use a Modified Comparative Fault system. This means that even with fault, you have the right to pursue some level of compensation. However, the percentage of fault can not exceed 51%. 

      When you work with the best car accident lawyer in Houston, they investigate your claim to determine liability. 

      What kind of settlement should I expect?

      When a negligent driver causes your accident, your settlement depends on an array of factors. If you work with a car accident lawyer Houston trusts at Universal Law Group, we help to maximize your settlement. 

      Here are a few of the factors that impact your compensation. 

      • Severity of injuries 
      • Property damage 
      • Total cost of medical expenses
      • The need for ongoing medical care 
      • How much work you miss and income you lose 
      • Whether you have the option to return to work
      • Lasting disfigurement, impairments, or disabilities
      • Pain and suffering 
      • Metal anguish from the accident

      When you want to calculate these costs, it’s not always easy. Too often, people don’t fully understand their rights and what compensation is available. That’s why a skilled car wreck attorney in Houston is so helpful. 

      With our legal team, you have advocates to ensure you demand and receive the compensation you need to move forward in your life.

      Other Questions On Your Mind? Call Our Houston Car Accident Lawyers

      As you start your medical treatment, it’s normal for questions to gather in your mind. Moreover, you probably want to better understand your legal options. At Universal Law Group, our personal injury law firm offers FREE case evaluations. 

      When you have questions, we have answers. If you have a problem, we’re ready to help you solve it. Feel free to contact our legal team with any issue you face. We are more than happy to discuss your claim with no obligation. 

      After a motor vehicle collision, you have rights. With our Houston car accident lawyers, you have advocates to help you fight for a better future. Call now to schedule your free consultation.

      Generally, it is best to leave communication with other parties to your Houston car accident lawyer. This includes even your own car insurance company.

      If you do not anticipate pursuing a personal injury lawsuit within three days of the accident, report the basic details of your claim to the insurance firm. 

      Again, it is essential that you do not accept blame or fault in any type of accident. Oftentimes, your biggest opponent in an auto accident claim is the other driver’s insurance company. Insurance firms typically have their own investigators and insurance adjusters who seek to undermine your claim and your case. Additionally, they may offer you an initial settlement in hopes that you won’t attempt to negotiate. 

      When you work with a Houston car accident lawyer at Universal Law Group, we are your advocates against these companies. We know when a settlement offer is not in your best interests and are ready to fight for the compensation you deserve.

      If you believe that you may be at fault in a car accident in Houston, lawyers can help you understand the situation. When you hire a Houston car accident attorney, they act as your advocate and investigator, gathering all the facts of the case, including factors you may not be aware of.

      Solid legal defense highlights extenuating circumstances and helps mitigate the legal consequences of an accident. Moreover, in Texas, fault can be ascribed to multiple parties based on a percentage of responsibility for the accident.

      This may mean that, even when at fault, you are due compensation for your injuries. After collisions occur, hiring a Houston car accident lawyer to represent you in your case is a vital first step in protecting your rights.

      As Houston auto accident attorneys, we understand the dangers of the road. That’s how we know the unpredictable nature of motor vehicle accidents. What we know for sure, though, is that so long as vehicles are on the road, accidents are sure to happen. 

      With this in mind, government agencies like the NHTSA, FMCSA, and the Texas Department of Transportation continue to gather statistics about collisions. Truly, these numbers are sobering. However, the data is helpful as we determine the major causes of accidents. 

      For example, we now understand how likely distracted driving is to cause an accident in comparison to adverse weather. Additionally, these organizations compile statistics regarding the types of crashes and the severity of the injuries people sustain in these accidents. 

      Unfortunately, there’s no universal formula to determine how much a specific settlement is worth for one victim. However, the figures provide our Houston car accident attorneys with a good deal of information to help our clients calculate a fair settlement. 

      If you sustain an injury in a motor vehicle collision caused by a negligent driver, our experienced Houston car accident lawyers fight to maximize your settlement. As your advocates, we want to help you achieve the compensation you deserve. 

      The Average Car Accident Settlement

      Statistically speaking, the average car accident settlement falls somewhere between $14,000 and $28,000. With this in mind, the median is around $21,000. However, it’s important to remember that this includes relatively minor accidents as well. 

      In minor cases, they might only cover a single doctor visit or repairs to a vehicle. When you include severe accidents, the settlement numbers skew much higher. As your advocates, we factor in as many damages as possible to ensure your needs are met. 

      • Lost wages 
      • Vehicle repairs 
      • Medical expenses 
      • Reduced earning capacity 
      • Pain and suffering 
      • Applicable expenses

      When we represent an injured Texan after an auto accident, we work diligently and thoroughly to calculate a settlement. We strive to ensure our clients have the funds they need to move on with their life. Whether you need extensive therapy or your injury permanently changes your life, we want to help you stay covered. 

      Auto Accident Attorneys and Negotiations

      While a settlement is not set in stone, some insurance companies multiply final medical bills to provide our motor vehicle accident attorneys with a general number. This estimate might sound great at first. However, we want to be thorough to ensure you aren’t left in the lurch. 

      With that said, we understand that pain and suffering are subjective. We use our experience to look beyond the statistics and numbers to examine the emotional toll of the accident. When you meet us at your free consultation, we want to understand the true impact of the accident. 

      There’s no universal account for pain and suffering. As such, we work as your advocates to bring it into reality. We want to help you fight for a better future. 

      When the Settlement Offer Isn’t Enough

      In some cases, the insurance companies simply do not want to offer everything you need. That’s when you truly require Houston car accident lawyers on your side. 

      It’s important for us to calculate your settlement properly. Once you accept an offer, there’s no option to renegotiate. For some people, the initial offer an insurance company makes seems perfect. 

      Unfortunately, they later find the impact of the accident was far more severe than they realized. As Houston car accident lawyers, we guide you through the process. When an insurance company refuses to settle with a sufficient offer, we take them to court. 

      Why Universal Law Group?

      Often, the victims of negligent drivers think a lawyer only helps once they go to court. That simply isn’t true. More than personal injury lawyers, we are your advocates through the claim process. 

      For insurance companies, it’s in their best interest to offer the lowest possible settlement. However, it’s in your best interests to maximize your claim. With the auto accident attorneys at Universal Law Group on your side, you have someone to help you negotiate. 

      If negotiations fail, we are more than happy to take them to court. As your advocates, we fight to protect your rights and your future. Schedule a free consultation today to see how we can fight for you. 

      After a car accident in Houston, you might feel overwhelmed. When a negligent driver’s reckless behavior causes you harm, you have the right to hold them accountable. In personal injury claims, the word “damages” refers to the compensation available to accident victims. 

      As Houston car accident lawyers, our team advocates for injured Texans who need help achieving the compensation they deserve. Here, we take a look at the different types of damages as well as steps to help ensure you maximize your claim. 

      Compensatory Damages

      When we look at Section 41.01 of the Texas Civil Remedies Code, we see the details of the damages available in a motor vehicle collision lawsuit as well as other personal injury claims. As Houston car accident lawyers, we start to build your claim with compensatory damages. 

      As the term implies, these damages compensate you for any loss you suffer as a result of your auto accident. This includes both current and future expenses. 

      Under the umbrella of compensatory damages, there are two types available: economic and non-economic. 

      Economic Damages

      When you have questions about damages available to you, our Houston car accident lawyers are happy to explain what you need to know. 

      Economic damages refer to the actual costs that result from the auto accident. Here are a few examples. 

      • Medical bills: These vary with your condition but include diagnostics, treatment and medications, follow-up visits with your physician, visits to specialists, and physical therapy. Additionally, they include any other medical expenses that you accrue. 
      • Property damage: Whether you repair or replace your vehicle, it counts towards your compensation. This also extends to any other noteworthy items you lose in the accident, such as a crushed laptop. 
      • Lost wages: This is two-fold. It includes wages you lost from time away from work as well as any reduction to your earning capacity. Often, this results from a long-term disability or permanent impairment. 
      Non-Economic Damages

      Non-economic damages cover the less tangible losses you experience in an auto accident. When you hear Houston car accident lawyers talk about “pain and suffering,” those are non-economic damages. 

      Moreover, it includes any mental anguish you suffer as well as loss of enjoyment in your life. For instance, when your motor vehicle collision results in an injury that makes you unable to participate in your favorite hobby, it reduces your quality of life. 

      Non-economic damages also include any compensation owed due to the loss of companionship your family experiences from a wrongful death. 

      For compensatory damages, there are no caps in a Texas car accident claim. The only exception is when the other driver is a government official or an employee of a government entity. In these cases, there’s a cap of $250,000 per person or $500,000 for a single accident. 

      Punitive Damages

      In rare cases, Houston car accident lawyers seek punitive damages. However, this generally requires extreme circumstances in the accident. 

      As an additional form of compensation, punitive damages are a form of punishment. When a liable driver is grossly negligent, reckless, or malicious, a judge might add fees on top of compensatory damages. 

      Gross negligence refers to any behavior that exhibits a willful and/or extreme disregard for the health and safety of others. 

      • Distracted driving
      • Driving under medications that alter someone’s mental or physical functions
      • Driving while intoxicated 
      • Aggressive driving 
      • Excessive speeding 
      • Racing 
      • Purposefully running red lights

      When a judge awards punitive damages, they want to send a message to the at-fault driver as well as others who might ignore their duty of care on the road. Typically, they base the charges on the total amount of losses suffered. 

      In Texas car accident claims, there’s a cap on punitive damages that limits them to the greater of $200,000 or twice the amount of economic damages plus the total of non-economic damages up to $750,000. 

      For instance, when both economic and non-economic damages are $1 million, the maximum for punitive damages is set at $2,750,000. 

      How to Help Us Maximize Your Damages

      The actions you take immediately after a motor vehicle accident impact your claim and compensation. As Houston car accident lawyers, we want to help you maximize your settlement. 

      Here are a few steps to help improve your odds for better compensation. 

      • Report the auto accident to the police immediately. 
      • Gather the contact information of all drivers, passengers, and witnesses involved. 
      • Document the scene with photos and videos, including damage to your vehicle and your injuries.
      • Seek medical attention immediately and be sure to follow your doctor’s treatment plan.
      • Resist the urge to accept an immediate settlement offer from the insurance company. 
      • Contact our Houston car accident lawyers to discuss your legal options. 

      How Our Auto Accident Attorneys Can Help

      When you sustain an injury in a motor vehicle accident in Houston or the surrounding areas, don’t hesitate to contact the team at Universal Law Group. Our auto accident attorneys are available to walk you through the damages available in your claim. 

      Most importantly, we act as your advocates. Our Houston car accident lawyers bear the burden of your claim so that you have time to focus on healing. Whether compensatory or punitive damages, we seek to maximize your settlement offer. 

      Schedule a free consultation with our attorneys today. 

      Experienced Houston Car Accident Lawyers Committed to Injured Texans

      When you sustain an injury in a car accident in Houston, TX, it’s hard to know what to do next. If a negligent driver causes a car wreck that leaves you hurt, you deserve financial compensation. However, how do you start that process? 

      At Universal Law Group, our team of Houston car accident lawyers guides people through this process. Every step of the way, you have an advocate to maximize your settlement and pursue your best interests. 

      How to Determine Settlement Demands

      Oftentimes, one of the first things people want to know is this. 

      How much is my car accident worth?

      There are several factors that impact the value of a personal injury claim. This includes the type of injury you sustain. It also depends on the severity of your injuries. Moreover, we have to consider the limits of the negligent driver’s insurance policy. 

      As you can see, it becomes complex quickly. Still, while it’s difficult to come up with an exact number, our firm helps you maximize your settlement in your particular situation. With personalized legal representation, we explore every avenue to pursue. 

      Economic Damages

      Certain losses you suffer in a motor vehicle collision have a specific dollar value. This provides a foundation for your settlement demands. Here are a few examples. 

      Medical Expenses

      This includes all of your current and future medical bills. These expenses cover a broad spectrum of treatments so long as they relate to the injuries sustained in the car accident. 

      • Diagnostic testing 
      • Emergency services 
      • Hospitalization
      • Surgery
      • Follow-up appointments 
      • Home health aides
      • Physical therapy
      Lost Wages

      As Houston car accident lawyers, we understand how much a collision changes your life. In many cases, serious injuries prevent people from working. When they miss work, it impacts every other aspect of their lives. 

      Including lost wages in your settlement helps you recover financially from a significant burden. If a negligent driver keeps you from work, it’s crucial to pursue compensation.

      Reduced Earning Capacity

      Lost earning capacity refers to your ability to earn income in the future. Oftentimes, this results from a permanent disability that results from the auto accident. With a car accident lawyer, Houston victims have a stronger opportunity to recover what they deserve.

      When an accident changes the way you live, it is essential to hold the liable parties accountable for their actions. 

      Property Damage

      When it comes to auto accidents, this often refers to the repair or replacement of your vehicle. However, it’s possible to include a range of other relevant items. 

      • Did you lose a laptop in the wreck? 
      • Is your smartphone busted? 
      • Do you have to spend money on rideshare services to get around?

      With our Houston car accident lawyers on your side, you have someone to uncover and recover the full spectrum of economic damages. 

      Noneconomic Damages

      Noneconomic damages are a little more difficult to pin down. How do you put a dollar value on your suffering? Can we truly measure the extent of your trauma? 

      While it’s not easy, our auto accident attorneys strive to attain the compensation necessary to help you move forward. These damages include the following. 

      • Disfigurement 
      • Loss of companionship 
      • Physical impairment 
      • Mental anguish and emotional pain 
      • Pain and suffering 
      • Loss of enjoyment in life

      With our Houston car accident lawyers, you have an advocate to calculate damages. When you need additional treatment or miss additional work, the amount rises over time. From there, our personal injury attorneys demand compensation. 

      Car Accident Lawyers Houston Drivers Trust

      At our Houston personal injury firm, we understand how to build a strong claim. We prove the extent of your injuries and tie them back to the negligence of another. As your advocates, we review accident reports and medical records. 

      Furthermore, we investigate your claim and interview witnesses from the scene. When necessary, we work with experts and specialists to help our team better understand your accident. 

      Oftentimes, insurance companies use an array of tactics to limit your payout. Far too often, this results in people gaining less than what they deserve. When insurance companies challenge the severity of your injuries, they only care about their own profits. 

      In some cases, they even attempt to shift the blame to the victim of an auto accident. All these tactics help them save money at your expense. That’s why you need an advocate to protect your future. 

      With our Houston car accident lawyers, the insurance company sees that you are ready to fight. When they see the potential to go to court, they are more willing to negotiate an appropriate settlement. 

      If you sustained an injury from a car wreck in Houston, TX, contact our team today. At your free case evaluation, we help you understand your options. 

      As Houston car accident lawyers, we know what it takes to win your case. Whether we settle from negotiations or win in court, it takes solid evidence. In some cases, there’s clear evidence for an open and shut claim. 

      For example, say that a driver posts an update to Instagram right before they rear-end your vehicle. Alternatively, perhaps they stumble out of their car reeking of alcohol. In both of these cases, our Houston car accident lawyers have a pretty easy job ahead of them. 

      However, not every case is so simple. Oftentimes, it’s more difficult to identify the cause of an auto accident. Attorneys then act as investigators to explore and determine liability. 

      As we gather evidence, we work to prove the negligence of the other driver as well as the severity of your injuries. Typically, the sooner we start, the better opportunity we have to protect your future. 

      Here are some examples of the evidence we explore in your car accident claim. 

      The Scene of the Accident

      In many personal injury claims, our lawyers don’t make it to the accident itself. Oftentimes, in the aftermath of a crash, calling our Houston car accident lawyers is not a high priority – rightfully so. 

      However, we still examine the scene of the accident. Moreover, we look over any photos from you or any witnesses of the collision. Often, this shows us some tell-tale signs of liability that aren’t always clear to other investigators. 

      • Damage to the vehicles 
      • Angle of the collision 
      • Tire marks 
      • Road conditions 
      • Weather conditions

      All of this helps us identify the cause of the auto accident. 

      Video – Surveillance, Social Media, and More

      Today, there are cameras just about everywhere. They sit outside of businesses, at apartment complexes, in parking lots, and even on some streetlights. 

      Additionally, witnesses often capture video evidence when they suspect something bad is about to happen. When you work with our team of Houston car accident lawyers, we seek out video footage. 

      If we find any recording, we carefully review the video to gather evidence that proves liability. 

      Digital Records

      There are other forms of digital evidence that help us prove negligence as well. This is especially true in DWI accidents or distracted driving accidents. For instance, perhaps the other driver posted on social media just before the accident. 

      Alternatively, their credit card statement may show a large bill from a bar or restaurant shortly before they get behind the wheel. In both cases, this is often highly persuasive evidence. 

      Witness Testimony

      When someone witnessed your auto accident, our Houston car accident lawyers may interview them. Often, witnesses provide an additional perspective on an accident. This offers new insight into the cause of the collision. 

      For instance, when you suddenly feel a crash happen, it’s hard to know what happened. However, a driver in another lane or another part of an intersection may know exactly what occurred. 

      Citations & Convictions

      When law enforcement responds to an auto accident, they attempt to determine whether someone broke the law. This includes an array of illegal activities. 

      • Aggressive driving
      • Distracted driving 
      • Drunk driving 
      • Running red lights 
      • Speeding 
      • Tailgating 
      • Other violations

      In these cases, police may issue a citation at the scene or even arrest the driver. When there’s a conviction, we use that as evidence of negligence. 

      Expert Analysis

      When our Houston car accident lawyers suspect a defective part of road hazard caused a collision, we work with experts to evaluate your case. For instance, an auto parts expert may determine whether a manufacturer sold someone a defective vehicle or part. 

      Additionally, road design experts may testify whether the road itself posed an unreasonable danger to Houston drivers. These experts help us prove liability for your claim. 

      Moreover, they help our auto accident attorneys explore additional avenues for compensation.

      When you want to calculate damages from a car accident, you need to work with experienced Houston car accident lawyers. With a car wreck attorney on your side, you have someone to review a range of documents. These include repair bills, pay stubs, and more. 

      However, Texas law also allows victims of negligent drivers to recover funds for pain and suffering. This refers to how much you suffer as a result of your injuries. But, how do you put a number on something so intangible?

      Uncovering Pain and Suffering

      When we talk about pain and suffering in personal injury claims, we mean the physical pain you feel as well as any mental trauma the accident caused. If you have to deal with a severe injury, it takes work. There’s a great deal of emotional labor involved in recovery. 

      You deserve to recover for both the physical and mental pain you experience. Unfortunately, people don’t always know how to calculate pain and suffering. That’s where a Houston car accident lawyer from Universal Law Group helps. 

      How We Help You Calculate Pain & Suffering as Houston Car Accident Lawyers

      First, start with how many days you have to deal with your injury. For instance, how long did it take you to heal? If it took around 60 days, and you feel your suffering has a certain amount per day, you might total that and request that level of compensation. 

      Alternatively, you might look at the total of your economic damages and compare it to the amount requested for pain and suffering. If your economic damages total $200,000, it’s possible to build an argument for pain and suffering based on those damages. 

      Unfortunately, there’s no universal formula or amount for car accident settlements. That’s why it’s a good idea to work with our Houston car accident lawyers. There are many variables to consider and a great deal of variation based on numerous critical factors. 

      For example, it’s important to consider the “jury pool.” If your case goes to trial, the average among verdicts for similar cases tends to vary from county to county. That means the settlement value of your accident may be worth more or less in a different county. 

      Still, there’s no way for our team to calculate pain and suffering damages without knowing about your case. Schedule a FREE case evaluation with our team. Share your story with a Houston car accident lawyer at Universal Law Group. 

      From there, we have the ability to discuss your legal options and help you maximize your settlement. 

      Pain and Suffering from an Insurance Provider’s Perspective

      After a car accident, the insurance company of a negligent driver acts quickly. They want to reach out to you to get you talking. Why do they do this? 

      They hope that you unintentionally make a comment that helps them limit your settlement. For instance, a response to “How are you?” as simple as “I’m fine” is enough to hurt your claim. To you, it’s a simple matter of being polite. 

      However, they hear “I don’t have any pain, and my injuries aren’t too serious.” Truly, people respond “fine” regardless of whether they struggle. It happens all the time. 

      Schedule a FREE Consultation: No Fees Until We Win

      In order to protect your rights, it’s crucial to seek representation from a trusted Houston personal injury law firm. At Universal Law Group, we are your advocates throughout the process. 

      From filing your claim to the final resolution, our Houston car accident lawyers have your back. Moreover, we work on a contingency fee basis. That means you pay nothing unless and until we win your case.

      Call our firm to talk to a Houston car accident lawyer today. Share your experience and let us help you explore your options.

      As Houston car accident lawyers, we are all too familiar with the frequency of auto collisions in Texas. Across the Lone Star State, a reportable auto accident occurs about once per minute. When this happens, it is essential for victims to establish legal fault. 

      In doing so, they have a better chance to receive the compensation they deserve. Still, this process is complex even when limited to two vehicles.

      Auto accident attorneys have to consider the weather conditions, hazards on the road, the speed of each vehicle, and more to uncover who is at fault. 

      When you need to establish fault in car wrecks that involve more than two vehicles, it makes the process yet more challenging. Below, we discuss some of the most relevant factors to determine fault in a three-car accident. 

      Remember, when you work with a Houston car accident lawyer, you have an advocate on your side. As you recover, our auto accident attorneys work to investigate your claim and maximize your settlement. 

      What is a chain-reaction collision?

      When a collision involves three vehicles, it tends to be a chain reaction crash. This name refers to the most common way in which these accidents happen. Initially, two cars collide. 

      Then, the force of the collision leads to further crashes with other motor vehicles. This creates a chain reaction that damages and/or injures multiple parties. 

      Here, our focus is on three-car crashes. However, a chain reaction collision has the potential to include any number of vehicles. Oftentimes, news coverage refers to these events as pileups. 

      This is an especially common term when the accident involves a large number of vehicles or occurs on a high-traffic roadway. 

      No matter the circumstances of your collision, when someone else causes you harm, you have legal rights. Contact our Houston car accident lawyers today to learn more about your options. 

      How to Determine Liability in Three-Car Accidents

      Due to the complexity of the scene of the accident and the dynamics at play leading up to the collision, it’s no easy feat to establish fault in a multiple-car accident. In some cases, the legal and financial liability falls upon a single driver who acted with negligence. 

      However, it’s possible for multiple drivers to share responsibility. 

      Proving Negligence in a Pileup

      Generally speaking, a successful car accident claim relies on the victim’s ability to establish the negligence of another driver. In order to establish negligence, it is essential to prove the following. 

      • The driver at fault owed a duty of care to others on the road. Generally, this duty requires the safe and lawful operation of their vehicle and applies to everyone on the road.
      • The negligent driver breached their duty of care. For instance, they drove at excessive speed or followed another car too closely. 
      • When the driver breached their duty, the negligence caused the collision as well as subsequent injuries and damage. 
      Example Scenarios

      When you want to determine fault in a three-car collision, it depends on an array of circumstances. Our Houston car accident lawyers are available to help you understand the particulars of your claim. 

      With a car accident lawyer, Houston victims have an advocate on their side to investigate their case. Here are a few common scenarios that occur on Texas roads. 

      • Example One – Vehicles A and B wait at an intersection. Vehicle C approaches B but fails to stop, causing a collision. This causes B to lurch forward, crashing into vehicle A. Here, the driver of Vehicle C is the liable party. 
      • Example Two – Vehicle A suddenly halts to avoid a hazard in the road. Prior to this, Vehicle B followed A too closely. The sudden stop causes a rear-end collision. Additionally, Vehicle C was tailgating B, causing another collision. Here, B is liable for the first collision while C is liable for the second. 
      • Example Three – Vehicle A cuts off Vehicle B on the freeway. Here, Vehicle B is a commercial truck. The truck driver (B) is unable to slow down in time, causing the truck to collide with A. The force of the collision causes Vehicle A to drift into another lane where it hits Vehicle C. Vehicle A carries the liability for the entirety of the crash because they failed to change lanes properly. 

      Unfortunately, there are far too many scenarios that lead to multi-car pileups. While these are some of the most common situations, it’s crucial to work with our Houston car accident lawyers to fully explore your claim. 

      Why Work with Our Houston Auto Accident Attorneys?

      When you work with the Houston car accident lawyers at Universal Law Group, we act as your advocates. That means we investigate your claim and work to maximize your settlement. We bear the burden of your claim so that you have the time and space you need to heal. 

      When Multiple Parties Are Liable for an Auto Accident

      As we showed above, it’s possible for multiple parties to share liability in a car accident. When this happens, everyone who plays a role shares fault for the collision. 

      This falls under the Modified Comparative Fault System in Texas, which has a 51% bar on recovery. 

      What does this mean for you? Let our Houston car accident lawyers explain. 

      • The state apportions fault based on how your action or inaction contributes to a collision. The higher percentage you contribute to the accident, the larger your share of the fault becomes. 
      • Additionally, so long as someone else shares a larger portion of the blame, you have the potential to recover compensation. However, once your share exceeds 50%, you have no legal recourse to seek damages. 
      Sample Scenario

      Vehicles A, B, and C experience an accident on a highway in Houston. As our Houston car accident lawyers investigate, we determine the fault breaks down as follows. 

      • A carries 10% of the fault 
      • B carries 35% 
      • C is 55% at fault 

      What does this mean under the rules of contributory negligence? 

      • A is able to recover 90% of their damages but bears 10% liability for the damages of B and C. 
      • B has the option to recover 65% of their damages and is liable for 35% of the damages of A and C. 
      • C has no option to recover damages and bears 55% of the liability for damages sustained by A and B. 

      Now, let’s make an adjustment. A has 0% of the liability for a collision. On the other hand, B and C share an equal level of fault. What does this mean for them? 

      • A has the option to recover 100% of their damages with no financial liability for anyone else’s damages. 
      • B and C both have the potential to recover 50% of the value of the damages. However, they are also responsible for 50% of the damages sustained by the others. 

      As you can see, multi-vehicle accidents require a precise determination in levels of fault. When you share some fault in an accident, our Houston car accident lawyers are available to help you recover compensation. 

      What Causes Chain Reaction Accidents?

      As Houston car accident lawyers, we know all too well that there are many causes behind collisions. Like most motor vehicle collisions, three-car accidents tend to result from human error. However, different environmental factors cause them as well. 

      Here are some of the most common causes of multi-car pileups. 

      • Speeding – When someone drives too fast, it reduces the amount of time they have to react or stop. Moreover, it decreases a driver’s ability to control their vehicle. Unfortunately, this means many chain-reaction collisions result from excessive speeding. 
      • Failure to Signal – Your turn signal communicates your intent to move. If you fail to signal before you change lanes or turn, the odds of a collision increase. 
      • Following too Closely – Occasionally, multi-car accidents occur because one driver tailgates another driver. When multiple cars travel at high speeds too closely, a sudden stop can cause a chain reaction of collisions. 
      • Distracted Driving – Distracted driving is all too common a problem our Houston car accident lawyers see. From eating to talking on the phone, distractions have the potential to lead to a multi-car pileup. Oftentimes, it also pairs with other types of negligence as well. 
      • Driving While Intoxicated – Unfortunately, drunk driving is a leading cause in car accidents. When someone drives while intoxicated in a high-traffic area, it increases the chances of a chain-reaction collision. 
      • Weather – Fog and heavy rain are all too common in Houston. Moreover, random freezes cause spots of unfamiliar terrain to crop up across the city. These adverse conditions make it harder for drivers to stop in time. 

      Personalized Representation from our Houston Car Accident Attorneys

      These are just a few of the potential factors that cause three-car accidents and pileups. As Houston car accident lawyers, we understand that accidents occur for many reasons. One of the most common features of these collisions is traffic. 

      When cars crowd a roadway, it increases the odds of a wreck involving three or more vehicles. If you experience a three-car accident, call on the expertise of our Houston car accident lawyers. As problem solvers, we help Houstonians recover the compensation necessary to move on in life. 

      Schedule a free case evaluation today. 

      In a city like Houston, we rely on our vehicles to get us everywhere we need to go on a daily basis. From commutes to and from work to dropping our kids off at school or heading out to meet friends, our cars take us there.

      Oftentimes, we don’t think about vehicular problems until something happens. Typically, there are warning signs to let us know something is wrong, too. However, as Houston car accident lawyers, we know all too well that some defects don’t offer a warning.

      Unfortunately, this has the potential to cause deadly motor vehicle collisions. Below, we look at some of the more common vehicle defects that cause car wrecks.

      In many of these cases, there’s potential to file a personal injury claim against the manufacturer.

      To learn more about your car accident claim, schedule a free case evaluation with our auto accident attorneys.

      Tire Blowouts

      The faster you move, the more pressure your car puts on the tires. Moreover, if you overfill your tires, it increases the pressure even more. When the wall of a tire has a weak point from manufacturing problems, it’s possible for a tire to blow.

      This sends your vehicle spinning out of control. In severe cases, this causes multi-car accidents with severe damage and injuries.

      When you need to hold a manufacturer accountable for their negligence, our Houston car accident lawyers are the advocates you need.

      Brake Failure

      Brakes are one of the most crucial components of a vehicle. They make all the difference between safety on the road and severe car accidents.

      When brakes fail, it often results in devastating car wrecks. Every year, manufacturers recall thousands of vehicles for some type of brake issue. If your brakes fail and cause an accident, you might be eligible for compensation.

      Overheating Engine

      Engines heat up. That’s entirely normal. Moreover, it’s why there’s a temperature gauge on your dashboard.

      Additionally, that’s why cars have radiators and cooling systems. However, when a manufacturer fails to properly construct an engine, there’s nothing to keep it cool. Then, it overheats.

      When an engine overheats, it has the potential to cause a catastrophic system failure. As Houston car accident lawyers, we help injured drivers hold negligent manufacturers accountable.

      Misfiring Airbags

      Airbags protect us from accidents when they deploy properly. These devices help to protect our upper bodies and heads from injuries. However, if your airbag fails to deploy or misfires, it leaves you vulnerable to severe injuries.

      If this is the result of a manufacturing defect, you might be eligible to file a personal injury claim. Contact our Houston car accident lawyers for a thorough review of your case.

      Gas Tanks Catching Fire

      As you already know, gas is quite flammable. Your engine burns gas to create the power that moves your vehicle. When your gas tank system has a defect, this has the potential to cause sparks or misfires.

      The potential there is deadly. When this happens, it can ignite the gas and cause a fire to break out in the vehicle. If this happens, it leaves you and others on the road vulnerable to severe burn injuries and car wrecks.

      Sticking Gears

      Whether you drive an automatic car or a manual, shifting gears is just part of how you drive. If a gear sticks or slips, it causes the vehicle to become unsteady and uncontrollable.

      Often, this results in an accident with potentially severe injuries. While human error happens, the root cause here is often a manufacturer defect in the gear mechanisms.

      As Houston car accident lawyers, we investigate your car wreck to find the true cause. Once we know what caused your accident, we hold the liable accountable.

      Breaking Axles

      The axle of your vehicle is kind of like the spine of your body. It keeps the wheels aligned and straight. Moreover, it is what offers you better control over the vehicle as you drive.

      When an axle suddenly breaks, it can cause the tires to come off the car. Additionally, it has the potential to cause the vehicle to careen out of control. Unfortunately, this often results in severe collisions out on the road.

      How Our Houston Car Accident Lawyers Can Help

      When you experience a car accident, it’s a difficult situation. If a defect causes your accident, it is essential that you hold the manufacturer accountable for their negligence.

      As Houston car accident lawyers, we are your advocates in your time of need. With extensive experience in auto accident claims, we help you understand your options. When you have a claim, we work to maximize your settlement.

      Moreover, you pay us nothing until we win your case. To schedule a free consultation with a car accident lawyer Houston trusts, call our personal injury firm today.

      As Houston car accident lawyers, we know how tragic a collision can be. In the worst cases, some car accident victims don’t survive a collision. For others, the extent of their injuries becomes too much for their bodies. 

      Unfortunately, these individuals don’t have the opportunity to hold the liable accountable or pursue a car accident claim. However, that does not mean that a negligent driver gets off the hook. It’s still possible for someone to hold them liable for the devastating loss that results from their negligence. 

      With our car accident lawyers, Houston families have the opportunity to file a wrongful death claim. This form of personal injury claim helps them recover from the severe financial strain that loss causes. While we understand no amount of money fills the void of a lost loved one, we work to maximize your settlement to ease your family’s financial burden. 

      Moreover, we strive to bring you a sense of justice. 

      At Universal Law Group, our personal injury attorneys hand wrongful death claims that stem from auto accidents. 

      How Wrongful Death Claims Work

      When you call on our Houston car accident lawyers to handle your claim, we become advocates for you and your family. Our goal is to bear the weight of your claim so that you can find some peace. Whether you need to heal physically or grieve, we strive to make the claims process as smooth as possible and ease your burden. 

      With a car wreck lawyer, Houston families have someone to explain the process. Here, we cover some of the basic requirements. If you want to learn more about your legal options, schedule a free case evaluation

      The first requirement of a wrongful death claim is the same as any personal injury claim. Someone else’s negligence caused the accident and the death. Then, a qualifying individual has the opportunity to file a wrongful death claim in Texas. 

      • Surviving children – including both adopted children and adult children
      • The surviving spouse
      • Surviving parents – including adoptive parents

      These relatives all have the option to file a claim individually. Alternatively, they have the option to file a collective claim. When none of the above family members file the wrongful death claim within three months of the person’s date of death, the executor of their estate or personal representative gains the power to file a claim. 

      However, they lose this power when a surviving family member requests that they do not file the claim. 

      Wrongful Death & Criminal Charges

      When a driver faces criminal charges for someone’s death, it’s important to understand that this does not result in damages. As experienced Houston car accident lawyers, we recommend that families take the initiative and file a claim in civil court. This is a completely separate process and matter. 

      Generally speaking, a criminal conviction imposes fines, jail time, and other punitive measures. While this offers a sense of justice, it does not help to protect your family’s future. However, a successful car accident claim results in compensation for surviving family. 

      As car wreck lawyers, we work to maximize your settlement to ensure your wrongful death claim helps to establish a foundation for your family to move forward. Criminal and civil cases can happen at the same time or one after the other. 

      Moreover, you still have the potential to prevail in your wrongful death claim even when the negligent driver receives no criminal conviction. 

      Wrongful Death Damages and Houston Car Accident Lawyers

      In any personal injury case, it is difficult to calculate appropriate damages. However, our Houston car accident lawyers understand how to uncover every potential damage and leverage evidence to maximize your claim. 

      For a wrongful death case, damages compensate your family and estate for the financial and emotional loss that stems from an untimely death. In Texas, these are the damages available in a wrongful death case. 

      • Loss of care, maintenance, support, services, advice, and counsel the lost loved one would provide to the family
      • Lost earnings and other financial contributions the deceased made for your family
      • The loss of love, comfort, and companionship
      • The mental and emotional anguish as well as pain and suffering of the surviving family members
      • Lost inheritance, which includes the potential savings left to the family had your loved one reached retirement

      When you work with our Houston car accident lawyers, we help you explore every avenue for damages and compensation. In some wrongful death claims, the surviving family has the option to seek exemplary damages. At times, we also refer to these as punitive damages. 

      If your car accident claim involves a wrongful death that results from a willful act or omission or due to gross negligence, you have the potential to recover exemplary damages. 

      The purpose of punitive damages is not specifically to compensate your family. Instead, the purpose is to punish wrongdoing and send a message to others. While our Houston car accident lawyers have less control over these damages, we help judges recognize instances of gross negligence. 

      What Happens to the Settlement

      When the court awards damages to a group, family members split damages. This goes according to the proportion of the injury suffered due to the loss. Typically, the court determines how to divide the settlement. 

      Statute of Limitations on Wrongful Death Car Accident Claims

      When you work with car accident lawyers Houston trusts, you have the guidance you need to protect your future. With a wrongful death claim after a car wreck, you have an opportunity to move forward. However, it’s important to understand the time constraints. 

      Moreover, it’s essential that you act quickly. As mentioned above, you have three months from the date of your loved one’s death to file a wrongful death claim. That’s why it is essential to contact our Houston car accident lawyers as soon as possible. 

      In Texas, there is also a statute of limitations that covers all personal injury claims. Generally, you have two years from the date of the accident to file your claim. While there are exceptions to this it’s important to act quickly. 

      As Houston car accident lawyers and advocates for families, we recognize the importance of the grieving process. In the months following a fatal collision, it’s difficult to know what to do. However, we urge you not to hesitate. 

      When you work with our Houston car accident lawyers, we offer the compassion and empathy your family needs. However, we couple that with the aggressive representation necessary to maximize your claim. 

      If you have lost a loved one to a car wreck, schedule a free case evaluation with our legal team today. Let us advise you on your rights and options. Then, let us be your advocates through every step of the legal process.

      Under federal law, each state in the U.S. has its own set of laws. As citizens of Texas, we abide by the laws set forth by the state. When you experience a car accident in Texas, it’s good to have a general understanding of the laws in place. 

      With a better understanding, you know how these laws determine the outcome of personal injury and insurance claims. As Houston car accident lawyers, our attorneys help auto accident victims navigate these laws. 

      Below, we cover a few basic laws. However, when you want to understand your situation, hire a car accident lawyer Houston trusts. Ideally, your attorney is your advocate, fighting for your best interests. 

      The Statute of Limitations on Personal Injury Claims in Texas

      Per Sec. 16.003 of the Texas statute of limitations on personal injury and negligence, you have two years following the date of your accident to file a claim or lawsuit for a car accident. The time begins with the date of the accident. 

      This applies to injuries related to any type of accident, ranging from pedestrian accidents to motorcycle collisions and bicycle accidents. Moreover, it applies to accidents wherein no one sustains an injury. 

      One major exception to this rule is when the accident involves a minor. 

      Additionally, this statute of limitation covers other personal injury claims. This includes slip and fall accidents and dog bites to rear-end collisions and truck crashes. In our experience as Houston car accident lawyers, the state is quite strict with these deadlines. 

      While certain exceptions are possible, it’s better not to rely on them. That’s why our legal team recommends reaching out to a car accident lawyer soon after the incident occurs. In fact, the sooner you reach out the better. 

      When you fail to meet the deadline and try to file a claim after two years, the defense tends to argue that it bars your claim. They cite the statute and say that you waited too long. Moreover, they have the option to motion for the dismissal of the case. 

      One important note is when the accident involves an uninsured or underinsured driver. In this instance, you have 4 years to file your claim. This is because it technically falls under a breach of contract. 

      Still, no matter the details, it’s always better to act quickly. If you experienced a car accident due to someone else’s negligence, contact our Houston car accident lawyers as soon as possible. 

      Insurance Requirements in Texas

      As far as it concerns car accidents, the statute of limitations applies to civil lawsuits alone. When you need to contact your own insurance company, it does not necessarily apply. In fact, these deadlines are entirely separate. 

      When you file a claim with your own insurance provider, many companies require that you do so as quickly as possible. However, the details vary and lie within your insurance agreement. If you need help examining the details of the timeline and process in your contract, our Houston car accident lawyers are available to help you review it. 

      Moreover, we are happy to help you file a claim with your own insurance provider to ensure you cover your needs fully. 

      Accidents Involving a Death or Personal Injury

      Per Texas Transportation Code Sec. 550.021., there are certain requirements to how we respond to an accident. For instance, any person involved in an accident likely to result in an injury or a death must immediately stop the vehicle at or near the scene of the accident. 

      If they do not stop at the scene, they must return to it. Once they arrive at the accident, they should determine where anyone involved requires medical attention. Moreover, it’s essential to remain at the scene of the accident. 

      Additionally, when someone stops their vehicle, they need to be careful not to obstruct traffic any more than is necessary. A person commits an offense when they do not comply with these requirements.

      In fact, it is a second-degree felony when it involves death and a third-degree felony when it involves a serious injury. This is punishable by fines, jail time, or both. More than Houston car accident lawyers, our team consists of criminal lawyers. 

      As such, we understand how seriously the state takes auto accidents. That’s why it is essential to respond to an accident appropriately. 

      Immediately Reporting an Accident

      According to Texas Transportation Code Sec. 550.026., it is critical to communicate that an accident occurred to local law enforcement. While there are specifics as to whether you contact the police or sheriff’s department, the simplest solution is to call 911. 

      This is especially true when someone involved requires medical attention. Moreover, it applies whether the accident involves an injury, property damage, or death. 

      If you have questions about the laws surrounding accidents, contact our Houston car accident lawyers today. We are your advocates in the worst of times, and our goal is to ensure you receive the care and compensation you deserve. 

      To gain a better understanding of your claim, schedule a free consultation with our Houston car accident lawyers as soon as possible.

      As Houston car accident lawyers, we understand that dealing with an insurance company feels like a chore. However, it’s something that many people have to do at some point. Oftentimes, one of the first questions we hear after an auto accident is how to get in touch with the right person at an insurance company. 

      Is the process different when you’re not at fault? Do I need to tell my insurance company, the other person’s company, or both?

      When someone else’s negligence causes your motor vehicle collision, you generally report it to their insurance company. While it’s a good idea to let your insurance company know, you don’t pursue compensation from them in this case. However, there are certain exceptions, such as when the other driver is uninsured. 

      At Universal Law Group, our Houston car accident lawyers know how quickly this process overwhelms the average person. When you partner with our firm, we handle all communication with the insurance companies on your behalf. As such, it’s a good idea to schedule a free case evaluation as soon as possible. 

      How important is insurance after a car accident?

      Every state in the US requires minimum liability insurance for all drivers from car insurance. Even when your policy doesn’t cover your own damages, you have to carry one that covers the injuries of other drivers in the event you cause a collision. When you fail to do so, you face major fines and have to cover the costs out of pocket. 

      On the other hand, when a driver hits you and doesn’t have insurance, it’s important to have options to pursue compensation from your own insurance provider. When you know the accident is not your fault, it’s important to work with Houston car accident lawyers to take the proper legal steps.

      Should I contact the other driver’s insurance company?

      This is important. Do not contact the negligent driver’s insurance company on your own – even when you just want to report the incident. When you have to file a claim against a negligent driver’s insurance policy, your best bet is to work with an auto accident attorney who communicates on your behalf. 

      Oftentimes, insurance providers try to avoid lengthy negotiations and trials by getting people to settle early for less than they deserve. Too often, people contact the other driver’s provider only to receive a lowball offer. Generally, they want you to settle and disappear without draining their profit. 

      Our Houston car accident lawyers ensure that doesn’t happen. 

      Unfortunately, insurance providers rarely prioritize the interests of victims in an accident. Instead, they focus on their policyholders, profits, and shareholders. As such, it is often in your best interest not to accept their initial settlement offer. 

      If the negligent driver’s insurance company calls you with questions, direct them to your attorney. Even when they ask how you are, a simple, polite “I’m okay” gets twisted into an accusation that you’re lying about your injuries. 

      Everything you say to an insurance company matters. That’s why it is crucial to partner with a team of Houston car accident lawyers who advocate for your best interests. 

      Why You Should Partner with an Attorney

      When you partner with an auto accident attorney, you have an advocate on your side. Our legal team represents you in all communication with the other person and their insurance provider. 

      After a car accident, your priority is your health and your future. It’s important not to let a short-term problem overshadow your future. In other words, we handle the insurance so that you can focus on healing. 

      Oftentimes, severe injuries leave people laid up for weeks or months. Dealing with an insurance company only adds unnecessary stress to your life. Still, it’s hard not to worry about the future. 

      As medical bills pile up, you start to feel overwhelmed and wonder what to do. For our Houston car accident lawyers, the goal is to alleviate this concern. We strive to maximize your settlement to protect your future. 

      With an experienced Houston car accident attorney on your side, you have someone who knows the ins and outs of the process. While you stay on track for recovery, they focus on recovering compensation for you. This saves you the hassle of communicating and negotiating with a team of insurance adjusters. 

      How to Negotiate with Insurance Providers

      When you partner with our Houston car accident lawyers, we contact the insurance company and file your claim with a demand letter. This letter states the amount of money we want for your compensation. However, the company rarely pays this amount outright. 

      Oftentimes, insurance providers use an array of tactics to deny or reduce your settlement. For instance, they might downplay the severity of your injuries. Alternatively, they may claim that you exaggerated the total of your expenses. 

      However, you know the truth. The fault lies with the negligent party, and your injuries are as severe as they feel. Furthermore, some injuries change your life and continue to require medical attention. 

      Still, the insurance providers attempt to push back on our demands. Eventually, we enter negotiations with the company, and this process length varies. 

      It’s important to be patient, though. This often involves collecting and highlighting evidence to prove fault and the extent of your injuries. 

      Throughout the process, we keep you informed of new offers. While we advise you at every step, the decision is ultimately yours. You choose when to accept or reject their offer. 

      When you partner with our Houston car accident lawyers, you have the power. Our job is to offer advice and fight on your behalf. Moreover, we cannot accept any offer without your approval. 

      In some cases, rejecting a settlement means we take your case to litigation and into court. At Universal Law Group, our Houston car accident lawyers are practiced trial attorneys who are never afraid to fight for what’s right.

      It’s a scenario our Houston car accident lawyers are all too familiar with. As you head to work or drop the kids off at school, traffic seems to move pretty smoothly. Everything is fine until you look down at the console to check your gas tank. 

      As you bring your eyes back to the road, a small car shoots out of a side street. You try to react, but the other driver doesn’t notice you at all. Your tires screech along the pavement as you try to slow and evade a collision. 

      However, the next thing you hear is the crunch of the impact. When the airbag goes off, you feel the force of it across your face and chest. Then, you faintly hear the sound of shattering glass. 

      You were just in a car accident with a driver that pulled out in front of you. It’s normal, in this situation, to replay the scenario in your head. Moreover, many people wonder who is at fault in this situation. 

      Maybe the police see it one way, not favoring you, but they weren’t present. The other driver came out of nowhere, and you know you had the right of way. If someone tries to reroute the liability to you, you need a team of Houston car accident lawyers on your side to advocate for you.

      Find Out Who Is At Fault

      As Houston car accident lawyers, we understand how confusing these situations can be. Often, people feel vulnerable and lost because the fault is clear to them. However, an opportunistic individual might try to convince the police of a different story. 

      When the police arrive at the scene, they interview and observe. Then, they come to their own conclusion and put it in a police report. In some cases, they even issue a citation to one or more of the drivers. 

      However, citations and police reports are not the final word on fault in an auto accident. Lawyers often investigate on their own and build evidence to prove true liability in collisions. 

      It’s not always easy to prove fault in an accident where someone pulls out in front of you. Still, our legal team works to investigate claims and analyze the evidence. Even when blame seems obvious, a thorough investigation might uncover evidence to point the fault at the true cause of the accident.

      In many collisions, the authorities jump to conclusions and make snap judgments without taking every aspect of the story into account. As Houston car accident lawyers, we encourage you to avoid phrasing statements in a way that suggests you might have caused the incident. 

      Schedule a free case evaluation with an attorney to protect your rights and your future. 

      Working to Determine Fault

      Our Houston car accident lawyers understand how to find fault in an accident. However, we also know how insurance companies think. Oftentimes, our legal team has to fight to prove even simple claims. 

      When someone pulls out in front of you, one overly simple way to determine fault is to treat it as a rear-end collision. 

      In this instance, the driver who strikes the other vehicle is typically at fault. However, that driver (in this scenario) might have had the right-of-way. The difference here is that in a rear-end collision, the rear driver has the responsibility to maintain a safe distance from the vehicle ahead of them. 

      By contrast, when someone pulls out in front of another driver, they might have no notice of the other vehicle. To our Houston car accident lawyers, this shows that the driver pulling out is ignoring the right-of-way and acting in negligence. 

      As such, a thorough investigation may connect their liability to your damages and injuries. 

      Piecing Together the Puzzle

      With a Houston auto accident attorney on your side, you have someone to investigate your claim. As we put together the details of the incident, we work to determine fault. There are many crucial details to examine. 

      • Physical evidence of the accident 
      • Speed calculations based on any skid marks
      • Eyewitness accounts of the incident 
      • Roadside sobriety tests

      All of this information is essential to your case. Moreover, people interpret it in different ways. Oftentimes, one of the most valuable pieces of evidence in an accident is the damage done to each vehicle. 

      For instance, damage to the front of a car indicates who struck who and at what angle. Still, it takes far more evidence to determine liability in the case. For example, if someone runs a stop sign and is hit on the side, there’s a good chance the other driver had no opportunity to take evasive action. 

      When you work with our Houston car accident lawyers, we work to investigate your claim. That means we gather as much detail as possible and piece together the puzzle for you.

      As Houston car accident lawyers, we know the statistics. It’s more likely that someone experiences an auto accident in their life than not. When a negligent driver causes the collision, it’s important for their insurance company to cover the cost of your damages. 

      • Medical costs 
      • Vehicle repairs
      • Compensation for your suffering

      Unfortunately, even with a valid claim, the other driver’s insurance company might refuse to pay. When this happens, you need a car accident lawyer Houston trusts on your side. Your auto accident attorney is your advocate, someone to fight for your future. 

      Oftentimes, insurance companies are slow to pay but settle the claim eventually. In other cases, they flat out deny your claim and refuse to cover your costs. Here are a few ways our Houston car accident attorneys motivate them to resolve your claim. 

      Present them with Evidence

      Many insurance companies are quick to support their policyholder. You might hear a few different things from their representatives. For example, they refuse to examine your car until they hear the other driver’s story. 

      If this happens, our car accident attorney contacts them to provide clear evidence that proves negligence. Part of this process is a deconstruction of the other driver’s explanation of the incident. As our legal team presents evidence, we pick apart the other story and link the other driver’s negligence to your injuries.

      Aggressive Demands

      Oftentimes, insurance companies prioritize profits over people. When the company refuses to pay, it requires aggressive action on the part of our Houston car accident lawyers. As your advocate, our auto accident attorney sets a firm deadline for the settlement. 

      In many cases, a firm, clear demand letter from our legal team is enough motivation. This urges them to process the claim quickly and return with a settlement offer. However, when this offer does not meet your needs, your Houston car accident lawyer starts the negotiation process. 

      Use Your Insurance Policy

      In rare cases, you might turn to your own car insurance policy to receive compensation. Typically, this is not a necessary step unless the other driver has no insurance policy of their own. 

      Mediation & Small Claims Court

      For smaller claims, our Houston car accident attorney can take the case to small claims court to seek out a resolution. However, we tend to opt for mediation and negotiation instead in order to ensure you receive the level of compensation that you deserve. 

      Take them to Court

      When negotiations don’t result in an appropriate settlement offer or they continually refuse to pay, our team can file a lawsuit on your behalf. In Texas, you have 2 years from the date of your accident to file a lawsuit. 

      As this firm deadline approaches, your auto accident attorney prepares the paperwork. At Universal Law Group, our legal team has a great deal of experience in courts throughout Houston and Harris County. We understand what it takes to build a strong case, maximize your settlement, and fight for the compensation you deserve. 

      While other Houston car wreck lawyers prefer to settle out of court, we use our strategic abilities to pursue your best interests. 

      When we think about distracted driving, the statistics about texting while driving are enough to stagger anyone. Across the country, at any given time of the day, roughly 660,000 drivers try to use their phones behind the wheel. 

      While there have always been things to distract drivers, from food and makeup to tapes and CDs, smartphones allow us to connect to the world immediately. Any Houston car accident lawyer can tell you about the dangers of this constant connection. 

      Truly, it imposes serious safety risks for the driver and everyone around them. Moreover, they allow for a broad range of activities to distract drivers. 

      • Checking texts, DMs, and emails
      • Talking on the phone or video calls 
      • Scrolling through social media
      • Trying to search for music or a podcast

      Our Houston car accident lawyer knows all too well that distraction rates from phones are far too high. Additionally, we know the risk they pose to other drivers. 

      When you sustain an injury in a collision caused by a distracted driver, you may be eligible for compensation. Call on a car accident attorney from Universal Law Group to discuss your legal options. 

      Phone Statistics

      • The National Safety Council reports that phone use behind the wheel leads to around 1.6 million collisions every year. 
      • Texting while driving leads to accidents that cause almost 400,000 injuries each year. 
      • 1 out of 4 auto accidents in the country is the result of texting and driving. 
      • Texting while driving has 6x the potential to cause an accident over drunk driving. 
      • Responding to a message takes your focus off the road for about 5 seconds. On highways, that’s enough time to move the length of a football field. 
      • Texting while driving results in a 400% increase in the amount of time you spend with your eyes off the road. 
      • Texting is the most dangerous phone-related activity by far. 
      • You are 20 times more likely to cause a car crash texting while driving than not. 

      Texting and Driving: The Consequences

      When you are the victim of an accident caused by a distracted driver, it’s likely that the responding officer will issue a citation. Luckily, our Houston car accident attorneys are able to use this information to your advantage. 

      Texting while driving is a moving violation. The citation counts as evidence in your auto accident claim. Your car accident attorney uses this information to create a firm link between the other driver’s negligent behavior and your damages. 

      Additionally, that driver faces financial penalties as well as other possible consequences. 

      • Points on their driving record
      • License suspension 
      • Revocation of license 
      • Mandatory safety classes

      Additionally, when texting while driving leads to an injury, the negligent driver faces the potential of time in jail or prison. While these standards and penalties vary, commercial drivers face even stricter consequences. 

      When you partner a Houston car accident attorney at Universal Law Group, we fight to protect your future. Our goal is to build a strong case for your car accident claim. Then, we fight to maximize your settlement. 

      With your best interests in mind, we pursue the best possible outcome of your case. If you sustained an injury in an accident, schedule a free case evaluation with our Houston auto accident attorneys today.

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      Do You Need a Houston Car Accident Lawyer?

      Your Advocate in a Time of Need

      No matter what the details are in your case, an aggressive Houston car accident attorney is your strongest ally. As your legal counsel, we build a defense in order to protect your rights and minimize your risk. Our ultimate goal is to provide you with everything you need to move forward after an accident.

      Don’t settle for less than you deserve. Car accident claims are complex. When you need to file a lawsuit, our personal injury attorneys can help ensure all negligent parties are held liable.

      Call on a compassionate and knowledgeable Houston car accident lawyer at Universal Law Group today. At your free consultation, we can show you why we are the legal team drivers depend on.