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Auto accidents are unfortunate, but happen all the time. Thousands of cases are reported every year in Texas, many of which often result in fatalities. If you have sustained serious injuries in such an accident and believe that the other party is at fault, you may consider filing a personal injury lawsuit. No matter the seriousness of your injuries, you should contact an experienced Houston car accident attorney to know what your claim is worth. The compensation, when granted, will come in handy in covering up your medical bills, loss of wages, and other losses. Here are some things worth knowing about car accident laws in Texas.
Statute of limitations
As in every state, Texas also has a statute of limitations. You have period of two years to file a personal injury lawsuit against the party at fault. However, this doesn’t apply for car accident claims filed to the insurance company. You should inform the insurance company of the at-fault party as soon as possible. Two years may seem like a lot of time, but acting early will help in gathering evidence and information, which will further strengthen your case.
Do you need an attorney?
Texas has a comparative-fault rule, where when both parties are at fault, the compensation is decided accordingly. Hiring an attorney is a must in certain circumstances. Consult a lawyer if –
- You have a part fault in the accident
- There is no clarity about fault
- The insurance company has denied your claim
- You have been offered a small amount
- You believe that the other party may file a case against you
One of the key reasons why you need an attorney is to protect your rights and interests. Keep in mind that insurance adjusters would want to reduce the financial liability of the company they work for, so even if they make an early offer, it would be way less than what you deserve. Your car accident attorney will come in handy for reviewing liability and establishing fault, and their expertise can guide you through the claims process.
Final word
Hiring an attorney is your personal call, but consider meeting one in person. The first consultation is for free, and you can ask all questions related to the case. Most car accident attorneys in Texas work on a contingency basis, so you only pay them when they win a settlement for you. If negotiation with the insurance company doesn’t go through, your lawyer will take things to court.
