Have you been hurt in a car crash in Houston, Texas? If someone else’s carelessness caused the accident, you might be entitled to significant financial compensation. The experienced Car Crash Lawyers at Attorney Brian White Personal Injury Lawyers are here to help you recover the money you deserve for your medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering.
Our Houston car crash lawyers are led by a Board Certified civil trial specialist and have a reputation for achieving outstanding results for accident victims and their families. We are committed to standing up to powerful insurance companies and at-fault parties, and we have a proven track record of winning millions of dollars in settlements and verdicts for our clients.
We have successfully recovered tens of millions of dollars for clients injured in various types of accidents, including car crashes, motorcycle accidents, truck accidents, slip and falls, and more. Our results speak for themselves.
Contact our Houston law offices, conveniently located in seven locations across the city, or call us at (713) 500-5000 for a free consultation today.
How a Houston Car Crash Lawyer Can Help You After an Accident
Experiencing a car crash in Houston can drastically alter your life. Whether the impact is minor or major, it’s essential to hold the responsible parties accountable. This is where the dedicated Houston car crash lawyers at Attorney Brian White Personal Injury Lawyers can make a significant difference.
For decades, we have been fierce advocates for car crash victims and their families throughout the Houston metropolitan area.
Founding attorney Brian White is Board Certified in civil trial law, a distinction held by only 3% of attorneys in Texas.
More importantly, our firm has a demonstrated history of success. Our skilled legal team has secured tens of millions of dollars in settlements and verdicts for our clients.
Each client we represent benefits from our comprehensive and personalized approach to their case, which includes:
If you’ve been injured due to someone else’s negligence, let our Houston car crash attorneys fight for your rights and help you get the compensation you deserve. With over 45 years of combined experience, our team is ready to stand by you. Contact us now for a free case evaluation.
Why Hiring a Car Crash Attorney in Houston is Crucial
Here’s why you should consider hiring a car crash attorney:
Insurance Companies Discourage Legal Representation: Insurance adjusters aim to minimize payouts and often try to settle claims for the lowest possible amount. They know that unrepresented individuals are less likely to understand their rights and the true value of their claim. A Houston car crash lawyer levels the playing field and protects you from these tactics.
Increased Chances of Winning and Higher Compensation: Statistics show that individuals who hire car crash attorneys are more likely to win their cases and receive significantly larger settlements than those who handle claims on their own. Legal representation demonstrates seriousness and expertise, often leading to better outcomes.
Protection Against Blame-Shifting: At-fault drivers and their insurance companies often attempt to deflect blame onto the accident victim. A skilled attorney can prevent these tactics from undermining your claim and protect you from unfair accusations.
Independent Investigation to Uncover the Truth: While insurance companies conduct their own investigations, their goal is to limit their financial liability. A car crash attorney will conduct an independent investigation to gather evidence that supports your claim and accurately determine the cause of the crash. This investigation can uncover crucial details that the insurance company might overlook or ignore.
Negotiating Fair Settlements and Avoiding Pressure: Insurance adjusters are trained negotiators whose primary goal is to settle your claim for as little money as possible. They may use pressure tactics, delays, or denials to force you into accepting a low settlement offer. A Houston car crash attorney will handle all communication and negotiation with the insurance company, ensuring your rights are protected and you are not pressured into accepting less than you deserve.
If you were injured in a car crash due to someone else’s fault, you are entitled to compensation. Hiring a Houston, Texas car crash attorney is a critical step in making that right a reality.
The Cost of Hiring Car Accident Lawyers: Understanding Fees
Many Houston car crash lawyers work on a contingency fee basis. This means that the attorney’s fee is contingent upon successfully recovering compensation for you. This arrangement, often referred to as “no win, no fee,” aligns the attorney’s interests with yours.
Under a contingency fee agreement, your car crash attorney agrees to take your case in exchange for a percentage of the financial recovery they obtain for you. This percentage typically ranges from 33% to 40% of your settlement or verdict, although it can vary depending on the firm and the complexity of the case.
At Attorney Brian White Personal Injury Lawyers, we operate on a contingency fee basis because we are confident in our ability to win your case. We are willing to front all the necessary costs of pursuing your claim, including investigation and litigation expenses. You will not pay any attorney fees unless we successfully recover compensation for you.
This fee structure allows you to access top-tier legal representation from a Board Certified civil trial specialist without worrying about upfront costs. Contact our Houston, Texas law offices today to learn more about our contingency-based legal services and schedule your free consultation.
Determining the Value of Your Car Crash Case in Houston
Determining the exact value of a car crash case, especially early in the process, can be complex. Each car crash in Texas is unique, and every victim’s circumstances are different.
However, considering the following factors can provide insight into the potential value of your case:
- Severity of Injuries: How serious are your injuries from the car crash? More severe injuries typically lead to higher case values.
- Recovery Prognosis: Will you make a full recovery, or will you have long-term or permanent impairments?
- Pre-existing Conditions: Did the car crash aggravate any pre-existing medical conditions?
- Time to Maximum Medical Improvement (MMI): How long will it take for you to reach MMI, meaning your condition has stabilized as much as medically possible?
- Lost Income: Have you lost wages due to the accident? Will your injuries impact your future earning capacity?
- Out-of-Pocket Expenses: What are your accident-related expenses, such as medical bills, ambulance costs, and property damage?
- Vehicle Damage: Can your car be repaired, or is it a total loss?
- Emotional Trauma: What is the extent of the emotional and psychological trauma you have suffered due to the car crash?
Generally, the more serious the injuries and the greater the impact on your life, the higher the potential value of your injury case.
According to the National Safety Council, the average value of a car accident resulting in “possible” injuries was approximately $160,000 in 2019. For crashes causing “disabling” injuries, the average value exceeded $1.2 million.
The Optimal Time to Hire a Car Crash Lawyer After an Accident
It is generally advisable to hire a Houston car crash lawyer as soon as possible after your car crash.
Here’s why early legal intervention is beneficial:
- Prompt Investigation: The sooner your attorney can begin investigating the accident, the better. Evidence can degrade or disappear over time, and witnesses’ memories may fade. Early investigation allows for the collection of crucial evidence and witness statements while they are still fresh and readily available.
- Focus on Recovery: Dealing with insurance claims and legal processes can be overwhelming and stressful, especially while you are recovering from injuries. Hiring a car crash lawyer early allows you to focus on your medical treatment and emotional well-being, while your attorney handles the legal complexities of your claim.
- No Additional Cost for Early Hiring: Texas car crash attorneys who work on contingency fees are paid based on results, not hourly rates. Therefore, hiring an attorney early does not typically increase your legal costs and provides significant benefits.
The attorneys at Attorney Brian White Personal Injury Lawyers are available 24/7 to assist you. We have multiple office locations throughout Houston for your convenience. Contact us today to understand your legal rights. Your initial consultation is always free.
Contact Our Texas Car Crash Lawyers for a Free Consultation
Attorney Brian White Personal Injury Lawyers has seven convenient locations across Houston, TX, to serve you. Our main office is located at 3120 Southwest Freeway, Suite 350, Houston, TX 77098. You can reach us at 713-500-5000 or through our online contact form.
Should You Accept an Insurance Settlement Offer After a Car Crash?
Generally, you should only accept a settlement offer from an insurance company after it has been reviewed and negotiated by a qualified car crash attorney. Insurance companies are businesses focused on profits, not your best interests.
Initial settlement offers are often significantly lower than the true value of your claim. Insurance adjusters hope you will accept these offers to quickly resolve the claim and minimize their payout.
Accepting a settlement offer prematurely can be detrimental. Once you settle, you waive your right to pursue further compensation, even if you later discover your injuries are more severe or long-lasting than initially anticipated. This could leave you responsible for future medical expenses and lost income.
Having a Houston car crash lawyer handle settlement negotiations ensures that the insurance company cannot take advantage of you. Your attorney will thoroughly investigate your case, prepare a demand letter supported by evidence and legal arguments, and aggressively negotiate for a settlement that fairly reflects the full value of your claim.
Essential Steps to Take After a Car Crash in Houston
Your actions immediately following a car crash are crucial. Mistakes can jeopardize your health and your ability to recover financial compensation.
Here are important steps to take (and avoid) after a car crash to protect your safety and your claim:
- Stay at the Scene: Remain at or near the accident scene, moving to a safer location if necessary and possible.
- Report the Accident: Call and report the accident to the Houston Police Department. Texas law requires reporting accidents involving injury, death, or property damage exceeding $1,000.
- Avoid Admitting Fault: Do not apologize or admit fault for the accident, even if you are unsure of the cause. Any statements you make can be used against you later.
- Exchange Information: Exchange contact and insurance information with all other involved parties, including drivers and witnesses.
- Gather Evidence: If possible, take photos and videos of the accident scene, vehicle damage, and your injuries. Write down details about the crash, road conditions, and witness information.
- Seek Medical Attention: Seek medical attention as soon as possible, even if you do not feel immediately injured. Some injuries may not be apparent right away. Medical documentation is crucial for your claim.
- Decline Recorded Statements: Do not provide a recorded statement to any insurance company without consulting with your attorney first. Insurers may use these statements to minimize or deny your claim.
Finally, contact an experienced Houston car crash lawyer as soon as possible. The more experience your attorney has with car crash cases, the better equipped they will be to protect your rights and maximize your compensation.
Our car crash attorneys have extensive experience handling car accident claims and lawsuits in Houston, Texas. We are familiar with insurance company tactics and have developed effective strategies to secure favorable outcomes for our clients.
Contact a Houston car crash lawyer at our firm for a free case review. We are here to help you navigate the aftermath of a car crash and fight for the compensation you deserve.
Common Causes of Car Accidents in Houston
Car accidents are unfortunately frequent in Houston, Texas. Understanding the common causes can help drivers be more aware and potentially prevent accidents. Here are some leading causes:
Distracted Driving: Texting and More
Texting while driving is a particularly dangerous form of distracted driving. It diverts your visual, manual, and cognitive attention away from driving.
Studies have shown that texting while driving is even more dangerous than drunk driving in terms of accident risk.
Other forms of distracted driving include:
- Eating and drinking
- Talking to passengers
- Dealing with children in the backseat
- Reaching for objects
- Daydreaming
Any activity that takes your attention away from the primary task of driving is considered distracted driving.
Drunk Driving
Drunk driving remains a significant problem in Houston. In 2022, there were thousands of reported drunk driving car accidents in Houston, averaging multiple DUI accidents every day. These accidents often result in serious injuries and fatalities.
Speeding
Houston’s heavy traffic congestion can lead to drivers speeding in an attempt to make up for lost time. However, speeding significantly increases the risk of accidents and the severity of injuries. Speeding was a factor in a large number of motor vehicle accidents in Houston and Harris County in 2022.
Other common causes of car accidents in Houston include:
- Failure to yield the right of way
- Aggressive driving
- Inexperienced drivers
- Driving under the influence of drugs
- Drowsy driving
- Poor weather conditions
- Night driving and reduced visibility
- Hazardous road conditions
- Vehicle defects
A thorough investigation by a car crash lawyer can help determine all contributing factors to your accident and establish liability.
Texas: An At-Fault State for Car Accidents
Texas is an at-fault state for car accidents. This means that the driver who is determined to be at fault for the accident is responsible for paying for the resulting damages.
In at-fault states, accident victims can pursue compensation from the at-fault driver’s insurance company. This system allows victims to recover damages from the responsible party, rather than relying solely on their own insurance, as in no-fault states.
If your damages exceed the at-fault driver’s insurance policy limits, you can file a personal injury lawsuit against the driver and any other liable parties.
Partial Fault in a Houston Car Crash: Comparative Negligence
In Texas, you can still recover compensation even if you are partially at fault for a car accident, as long as your percentage of fault is not greater than 50%. Texas uses a modified comparative fault system with a 51% bar to recovery.
If you are found to be partially at fault, your compensation will be reduced proportionally to your degree of fault. For example, if you are found to be 20% at fault, your total damages will be reduced by 20%.
However, if you are determined to be 51% or more at fault for the accident, you are barred from recovering any compensation from the other parties involved.
Proving Negligence in a Houston Car Accident Lawsuit
In most Houston car accident lawsuits, you will need to prove negligence to recover compensation. Negligence, in a legal context, means that someone acted carelessly and that carelessness caused your injuries.
To establish negligence, you must prove four key elements:
- Duty of Care: The at-fault party owed you a duty of care to act reasonably and safely (e.g., all drivers have a duty to obey traffic laws and drive safely).
- Breach of Duty: The at-fault party breached their duty of care through careless or reckless actions (e.g., speeding, distracted driving, drunk driving).
- Causation: The at-fault party’s breach of duty directly caused the car accident.
- Damages: You suffered actual damages as a result of the accident, such as injuries, medical expenses, lost income, and pain and suffering.
In Texas, you must prove these elements by a preponderance of the evidence, meaning it is more likely than not that each element is true. Your car crash lawyer will gather evidence and build a strong case to demonstrate negligence.
Statute of Limitations for Car Accident Lawsuits in Houston
The statute of limitations for most car accident lawsuits in Texas is two years from the date of the accident. This means you generally have two years from the date of the crash to file a lawsuit seeking compensation for your injuries and damages.
Failing to file a lawsuit within this two-year period typically means losing your right to pursue legal action and recover compensation.
Certain exceptions may apply, such as cases involving government entities, which may have shorter deadlines, or situations where the statute of limitations may be tolled (paused). It is crucial to consult with a car crash lawyer promptly to ensure you do not miss any deadlines and preserve your legal rights.
Types of Damages You Can Recover After a Houston Car Crash
If you are injured in a Houston car crash due to someone else’s negligence, you may be entitled to recover compensatory damages. These damages are intended to compensate you for your losses and can be categorized into economic and non-economic damages.
Economic Damages: Quantifiable Financial Losses
Economic damages are intended to cover your direct financial losses resulting from the car crash. These damages are typically quantifiable and can be documented with bills, receipts, and other financial records.
Examples of economic damages in car accident cases include:
- Medical Expenses: Past and future medical bills, including hospital stays, doctor visits, surgeries, medications, physical therapy, and medical equipment.
- Lost Income: Lost wages from time missed from work due to injuries, as well as lost future earning capacity if your injuries prevent you from returning to your previous job or earning capacity.
- Property Damage: Costs to repair or replace your damaged vehicle and other personal property damaged in the accident.
- Other Out-of-Pocket Expenses: Other accident-related expenses, such as transportation costs to medical appointments, assistive devices, and home modifications needed due to your injuries.
In cases of fatal car accidents, economic damages can also include funeral and burial expenses and loss of financial support for surviving family members.
Non-Economic Damages: Addressing Intangible Losses
Non-economic damages address the intangible, non-financial losses you experience due to the car crash. These damages are more subjective and harder to quantify but are equally important to your overall recovery.
Examples of non-economic damages include:
- Pain and Suffering: Physical pain and discomfort you have experienced and will continue to experience due to your injuries.
- Emotional Distress: Mental anguish, anxiety, depression, PTSD, and other emotional and psychological trauma resulting from the accident.
- Loss of Enjoyment of Life: The diminished ability to participate in hobbies, activities, and aspects of life you enjoyed before the accident.
- Disfigurement and Scarring: Compensation for permanent scarring or disfigurement caused by your injuries.
- Loss of Consortium: In some cases, spouses may be able to recover damages for the loss of companionship, intimacy, and household services due to their spouse’s injuries.
Non-economic damages are a critical component of car crash claims as they recognize the significant impact that injuries can have on your overall well-being and quality of life.
Valuing Pain and Suffering Damages in Texas Courts
Valuing pain and suffering damages can be challenging as they are subjective and vary from person to person. Texas courts and insurance companies often use two primary methods to calculate these damages:
- Multiplier Method: This method involves multiplying your total economic damages by a multiplier, typically ranging from 1 to 5. The multiplier is determined based on the severity of your injuries, the duration of your recovery, and the overall impact of the accident on your life. More severe and long-lasting injuries warrant a higher multiplier.
- Per Diem Method: This method assigns a daily dollar amount to your pain and suffering and then multiplies that amount by the number of days you have experienced pain and suffering, often until you reach maximum medical improvement. This method is less commonly used than the multiplier method.
Your car crash lawyer will assess the specific details of your case and employ the most appropriate method to calculate and advocate for fair pain and suffering damages.
Punitive Damages: When Punishment is Warranted
Punitive damages are rarely awarded in car accident cases. Unlike compensatory damages, which aim to compensate the victim, punitive damages are intended to punish the defendant for egregious misconduct and deter similar behavior in the future.
In Texas, punitive damages may be awarded in cases involving drunk driving accidents, hit-and-run accidents, intentional acts of harm, or other instances of gross negligence or malice. The standard for awarding punitive damages is high, requiring clear and convincing evidence of egregious wrongdoing.
How Different Types of Car Crashes Affect Your Case
The specific type of car crash you were involved in can influence the complexities and challenges of your case. Different types of accidents often require specific investigative techniques, expert witnesses, and legal strategies.
Attorney Brian White Personal Injury Lawyers has extensive experience handling various types of car accident cases, including:
Rollover Accidents
Rollover accidents, particularly involving SUVs, can result in severe injuries. Investigating these accidents often involves examining vehicle stability, road conditions, and driver actions. A Houston car crash lawyer experienced in rollover accidents can effectively handle these complex cases.
Rear-End Collisions
Rear-end collisions are common, and while some are minor, others can cause significant injuries, especially whiplash. Determining fault in rear-end accidents is often straightforward, but complexities can arise in multi-vehicle pile-ups or when fault is disputed. A Houston car crash lawyer can ensure your rights are protected in rear-end collision cases.
Fatal Car Accidents
Fatal car accidents are tragic and require compassionate and skilled legal representation for grieving families. These cases involve wrongful death claims, seeking compensation for surviving family members for their losses. A Houston car crash lawyer experienced in fatal accidents can guide families through the legal process and pursue justice for their loved ones.
Head-On Collisions
Head-on collisions are often catastrophic, resulting in severe injuries or fatalities. These accidents frequently involve high speeds and require thorough investigation to determine the cause, which may involve factors like distracted driving, drunk driving, or wrong-way driving. A Houston car crash lawyer can handle the complexities of head-on collision cases to maximize compensation.
Whiplash Injuries
Whiplash is a common injury in car accidents, particularly rear-end collisions. While often considered less severe, whiplash can cause chronic pain and long-term disability for some individuals. A Houston car crash lawyer can help ensure that whiplash injuries are properly documented and compensated.
Single-Vehicle Accidents
Even in single-vehicle accidents, you may be entitled to compensation if the crash was caused by factors beyond your control, such as road defects, vehicle malfunctions, or the negligence of another party (even if not another driver directly involved). A Houston car crash lawyer can investigate single-vehicle accidents to identify all potential sources of liability.
Accidents Caused by Road Defects
Dangerous road conditions, such as potholes, inadequate signage, or improper road design, can cause car accidents. Pursuing claims against government entities responsible for road maintenance requires specific legal expertise and understanding of governmental immunity laws. A Houston car crash lawyer with experience in road defect cases can navigate these complex claims.
Since 2007, Attorney Brian White Personal Injury Lawyers has been dedicated to helping car crash victims in Houston. We have the experience and resources to handle all types of car accident cases and fight for the compensation our clients deserve.
Choose Houston Car Crash Lawyers You Can Rely On
Selecting the right attorney after a car accident is a critical decision. You need a lawyer with proven experience, a track record of success, and a genuine commitment to your well-being and achieving the best possible outcome in your case.
Attorney Brian White Personal Injury Lawyers is a trusted choice for car crash victims in Houston. Our car crash attorneys understand the challenges you face after an accident and are dedicated to providing compassionate support and aggressive legal representation.
We offer 24/7 availability and free consultations at your convenience. We can meet you at our office, your home, or even the hospital. Contact us today to discuss your case and learn how we can help you get back on your feet. Your first consultation is free, and we work on a contingency fee basis, so you pay nothing unless we win.
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Areas We Serve in Houston, TX
Northside, Independence Heights, Central Northwest, Greater Fifth Ward, East Downtown, Central Business District, South Central Houston, Greater OST/South Union, Southwest Houston, Spring Branch East, The Memorial Villages, Briarforest, Chinatown, Mission Bend, Energy Corridor, Northwest Houston, Acres Homes, Aldine, East Aldine, East Houston, Jacinto City, Galeana Park, Deer Park, Southeast Houston, South Park, Greater Hobby Area, Hyde Park, Fourth Ward, Rice Military, Bellaire, South Main, Second Ward, Magnolia Park, Pearland, Friendswood, League City, Dickinson, La Marque, Texas City, Humble, Shady Acres, Jersey Village, Pasadena.
Local Auto Repair Shops
- Dent Dogs Inc – 3900 Southwest Fwy, Houston, TX 77056
- JJ Auto Body – 340 Erin St, Houston, TX 77009
- Brookston Body Shop – 1330 N Durham Dr, Houston, TX 77008
- Dent Sharks – 5090 Richmond Ave Ste 179, Houston, TX 77056
- Ryan Automotive Glass & Collision Center – 716 Fairview St – Houston, TX 77006
*Disclaimer – we do not endorse these companies or profit from having them listed on our website.
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