A car accident can turn your life upside down in an instant. One moment you’re driving along, the next you’re facing injuries, medical bills, car repairs, and a maze of insurance claims. The physical pain and emotional stress, coupled with questions about what to do next, can feel like too much to handle. That’s where experienced Texas car accident attorneys step in to guide you through the chaos. At Harrison Davis Morrison Jones, our dedicated legal team is here to fight for you, helping you secure the compensation you need to move forward.
With years of experience representing Texans, we’ve seen firsthand the toll a car accident can take. Whether the crash was caused by a distracted driver, someone under the influence, or simple carelessness, our attorneys dig deep into your case, deal with insurance companies, and work tirelessly to ensure you get the financial recovery you deserve for medical expenses, lost income, and more.
Understanding Texas Car Accident Claims
Navigating a car accident claim in Texas can be complex, especially if you’re unfamiliar with personal injury law. Many victims don’t realize they’re entitled to compensation for their injuries and losses. Here’s what you need to know:
Texas Operates on a “Fault” System
Texas follows a fault-based system for car accidents, meaning the driver who caused the crash is responsible for covering damages. You’ll typically file a claim with the at-fault driver’s insurance company, but don’t expect them to make it easy. Insurance adjusters often try to minimize payouts by downplaying injuries or offering low settlements. Having a skilled attorney ensures your claim is taken seriously and fairly valued.
Texas Minimum Insurance Requirements
Texas law mandates that all drivers carry minimum liability insurance, known as 30/60/25 coverage:
- $30,000 for bodily injury per person
- $60,000 for total bodily injury per accident
- $25,000 for property damage per accident
This coverage protects others if you cause an accident, but it may not be enough to cover serious injuries. If the at-fault driver has higher coverage, your attorney can pursue additional compensation to meet your needs.
Uninsured or Underinsured Drivers
Unfortunately, some Texas drivers lack insurance or carry inadequate coverage. If you have uninsured/underinsured motorist (UM/UIM) coverage, you can file a claim with your own insurer. Without this protection, recovering damages can be challenging, but an experienced attorney can explore all options to secure compensation.
Other Potentially Liable Parties
In some cases, parties beyond the driver may share responsibility:
- Vehicle Manufacturers: Defective parts, like faulty brakes or tires, can contribute to accidents.
- Bars or Restaurants: If a driver was over-served alcohol and caused a crash, the establishment may be liable under Texas dram shop laws.
Common Injuries in Texas Car Accidents
According to the Texas Department of Transportation, an injury crash occurs every two minutes in the state, highlighting how common these incidents are. Injuries range from mild to life-altering, including:
- Whiplash: Sudden jolts can cause neck pain, stiffness, headaches, or dizziness, often requiring physical therapy.
- Back Injuries: Strains, herniated discs, or fractures can limit mobility and cause chronic pain.
- Head Injuries: Concussions or traumatic brain injuries (TBIs) can lead to cognitive issues, memory loss, or long-term disability.
- Internal Injuries: Hidden damage, like organ trauma or internal bleeding, can be life-threatening if not treated promptly.
Even seemingly minor injuries should be evaluated by a doctor to document your condition and strengthen your claim.
Leading Causes of Car Accidents in Texas
Texas roads see heavy traffic, and accidents are all too frequent. The most common causes include:
- Distracted Driving: Texting, phone calls, eating, or adjusting devices caused nearly 90,000 crashes in Texas in 2023, leading to thousands of injuries.
- Speeding: Excessive speed reduces reaction time, contributing to over 138,000 crashes in 2023.
- Driving Under the Influence (DUI): Alcohol-related crashes accounted for over 25% of Texas traffic fatalities in 2023, despite efforts to curb drunk driving.
- Aggressive or Reckless Driving: Tailgating, improper lane changes, or road rage increase crash risks.
- Weather Conditions: Rain, fog, or ice can make roads hazardous, especially for unprepared drivers.
Steps to Take After a Texas Car Accident
The moments after a crash can be overwhelming, but taking the right steps protects your health and legal rights:
- Check for Injuries: Call 911 if anyone is hurt. Even minor injuries should be evaluated by a medical professional.
- Ensure Safety: Move vehicles out of traffic if possible, turn on hazard lights, and set up flares to warn other drivers.
- Document the Scene: Take photos of vehicle damage, skid marks, and road conditions. Collect contact and insurance details from all drivers involved.
- File a Crash Report: Texas law requires a report for crashes involving injuries, fatalities, or property damage over $1,000. Submit it to the Texas Department of Transportation within 90 days.
- Notify Your Insurer: Report the accident promptly, but avoid giving detailed statements until you consult an attorney.
- Contact a Lawyer: An experienced attorney can guide you through the claims process and protect you from insurance tactics.
Texas Statute of Limitations for Car Accident Claims
In Texas, you generally have:
- Two Years to file a personal injury lawsuit against the at-fault driver or their insurer, starting from the date of the accident.
- Six Months to file a notice of claim if a government entity (e.g., a city vehicle) is involved.
Acting quickly is crucial, as evidence can fade and witnesses may become harder to reach. An attorney ensures all deadlines are met and your case is built on solid ground.
How Harrison Davis Morrison Jones Can Help
At Harrison Davis Morrison Jones, our Texas car accident attorneys are committed to easing your burden and securing the compensation you deserve. Here’s how we support you:
- Thorough Investigation: We gather evidence, review police reports, and identify all liable parties.
- Strong Case Building: We document your injuries, losses, and damages to create a compelling case.
- Skilled Negotiations: Our team handles insurance companies, fighting for a fair settlement that covers medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering.
- Courtroom Advocacy: If negotiations fail, we’re prepared to take your case to trial to seek maximum compensation.
Get Started with a Free Consultation
If you’ve been injured in a Texas car accident, you may be entitled to compensation, but navigating the legal process alone can be daunting. At Harrison Davis Morrison Jones, we offer compassionate, expert representation to help you recover. Contact us today for a free consultation to discuss your case, understand your rights, and learn how we can fight for the justice and financial recovery you deserve.