Have you been injured in a car accident in Houston, Texas? If the accident wasn’t your fault, you might be entitled to significant financial compensation. Attorney Brian White Personal Injury Lawyers, a leading team of Attorney For Car Accident Near Me in Houston, is here to help you navigate this challenging time and recover the maximum compensation for your medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering.
Our Houston car accident attorneys, led by a Board Certified civil trial specialist, have a reputation for achieving exceptional results for car accident victims and their families. We are committed to standing up against powerful insurance companies and at-fault parties to secure the life-changing compensation our clients deserve. We’ve successfully recovered millions of dollars for individuals injured in car accidents, motorcycle accidents, truck accidents, slip and fall incidents, and wrongful death cases.
Don’t face the aftermath of a car accident alone. Contact our Houston law offices today for a free consultation. With seven convenient locations throughout Houston and a dedicated phone line at (713) 500-5000, getting the legal help you need is within reach.
How a Car Accident Attorney Near You in Houston Can Make a Difference
Alt text: Houston car accident lawyer assisting client, emphasizing legal help after car crash.
Experiencing a car accident in Houston can drastically alter your life. Whether the impact is minor or major, holding the responsible parties accountable is crucial. This is where a dedicated attorney for car accident near me, like Attorney Brian White Personal Injury Lawyers, becomes invaluable. We have been staunch advocates for car accident victims and their families across the Houston metropolitan area for years.
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 proven history of success. Our skilled Houston legal team has secured tens of millions of dollars in settlements and verdicts for our clients. We believe in a personalized and thorough approach to each case, ensuring every client benefits from:
- In-depth investigation into the accident to determine fault and gather crucial evidence.
- Strategic negotiation with insurance companies to maximize your settlement offer.
- Aggressive litigation in court if a fair settlement cannot be reached.
- Compassionate and personalized support throughout the entire legal process.
If you’ve been injured due to someone else’s negligence, don’t hesitate to seek legal help. Let our experienced Houston car accident attorneys fight for your rights and hold those responsible accountable. Contact us today for a free case evaluation and get a team with over 45 years of combined experience on your side.
Why Hiring a Car Accident Attorney in Your Area is Essential
Here are compelling reasons why you should hire a car accident attorney near me:
Leveling the Playing Field with Insurance Companies: Insurance companies are not on your side. Their adjusters are trained to minimize payouts, often making lowball offers hoping you’ll accept. They understand the claims process intimately, while you likely don’t. A local Houston accident lawyer can neutralize their advantage and protect your interests.
Increased Chances of Winning and Higher Compensation: Statistics show that individuals represented by a car accident lawyer are more likely to win their cases and recover significantly more money than those who navigate the claims process alone.
Protection Against Blame-Shifting Tactics: At-fault drivers and their insurers often resort to blaming the victim to avoid or reduce liability. An experienced attorney can anticipate and counter these tactics, safeguarding your claim from unwarranted blame.
Independent Investigation to Uncover the Truth: While insurance companies conduct their own investigations, their focus is on limiting their financial exposure. Hiring your own attorney for car accident near me means benefiting from an independent investigation aimed at building a strong case on your behalf and uncovering all contributing factors to the accident.
Shielding You from Pressure to Settle for Less: Insurance adjusters are under pressure to settle claims quickly and for the lowest possible amount to protect company profits. They may exploit your stress and vulnerability to push you into accepting an inadequate settlement. A dedicated Houston auto accident lawyer will act as your buffer, handling communication with the insurer and ensuring you are not pressured into a premature or unfair settlement.
You deserve full compensation if someone else’s negligence caused your car accident injuries. Hiring a Houston, Texas car accident attorney is a critical step towards making that a reality.
Understanding the Cost of a Car Accident Attorney
Alt text: Contingency fee agreement explained, addressing car accident lawyer costs.
The majority of attorney for car accident near me in Houston operate on a contingency fee basis. This means that attorney fees are contingent on winning your case. Often referred to as “no win, no fee,” this arrangement aligns the lawyer’s interests with yours.
Under a contingency fee agreement, your car accident attorney agrees to represent you in exchange for a percentage of the financial compensation they recover for you. This percentage typically ranges from 33% to 40% of your total recovery, depending on the firm and the complexity of the case.
At Attorney Brian White Personal Injury Lawyers, we are confident in our ability to secure substantial compensation for your Texas car accident injuries and losses. We are so confident that we cover all upfront costs associated with negotiating and litigating your claim. You owe us nothing unless and until we successfully win your case.
This contingency fee structure allows you to access experienced legal representation from a Board Certified civil trial specialist without worrying about upfront legal bills. 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 Houston Car Accident Case
Assessing the value of a car accident case, especially early on, is a complex process. Each Texas car accident is unique, and every victim’s experience is different. However, considering the following factors can provide insight into the potential worth of your case:
- Severity of Your Injuries: How serious are your car accident injuries? 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 accident exacerbate any pre-existing conditions?
- Time to Maximum Medical Improvement (MMI): How long will it take to reach MMI, indicating the end of your active medical treatment?
- Lost Income: Will you be unable to work temporarily or permanently due to your injuries?
- Future Earning Capacity: Will your injuries impact your ability to earn income in the future?
- Out-of-Pocket Expenses: What are your accident-related out-of-pocket costs, including medical bills, transportation, and other expenses?
- Vehicle Damage: Can your car be repaired, or is it a total loss requiring replacement?
- Emotional Trauma: What is the extent of emotional and psychological trauma you’ve experienced due to the accident?
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 involving “possible” injuries was around $160,000 in 2019, while accidents resulting in “disabling” injuries averaged over $1.2 million.
The Importance of Hiring a Car Accident Attorney Near You Promptly
It is crucial to hire a car accident attorney near you in Houston as soon as possible after your car crash. Here’s why:
- Timely Investigation: The sooner your attorney can begin investigating, the better. Evidence can disappear, and witnesses’ memories fade quickly. Early intervention allows your attorney to gather critical evidence and build a strong case.
- Focus on Recovery: Dealing with insurance claims and legal processes while recovering from injuries is stressful and overwhelming. Hiring an attorney early allows you to focus on your physical and emotional healing while your legal team handles the complexities of your claim.
- No Added Cost for Early Hiring: Car accident attorneys in Texas, working on contingency, are paid based on results, not hourly fees. Engaging an attorney early doesn’t increase your legal costs but significantly enhances your chances of a successful outcome.
Attorney Brian White Personal Injury Lawyers is available 24/7 to assist you. With seven convenient office locations across Houston, we are readily accessible when you need us most. Contact us today to understand your legal rights and options. Your initial consultation is always free.
Contact Our Texas Car Accident Lawyers Near You for a Free Consultation
Attorney Brian White Personal Injury Lawyers has multiple locations throughout Houston, TX to serve you better. Our main office is located at 3120 Southwest Freeway, Suite 350, Houston, TX 77098. Call us at 713-500-5000 or click here to complete our online contact form for a free consultation.
Navigating Insurance Settlement Offers After a Houston Car Accident
Alt text: Reviewing insurance settlement offer with attorney after car accident.
Should you accept an insurance company’s settlement offer after a car accident in Houston? Only after it has been thoroughly reviewed and ideally negotiated by a qualified attorney for car accident near me. Remember, insurance companies prioritize their profits, not your well-being.
Initial settlement offers are often deliberately low, aiming to resolve your claim quickly and cheaply. Adjusters hope you’ll be tempted by immediate cash and agree to a settlement that undervalues your claim. Accepting an offer before understanding the full extent of your damages and future needs is risky. Once you settle, you waive your right to pursue further compensation, even if you later discover significant long-term medical needs or lost earning capacity.
Having your Houston car accident lawyer handle settlement negotiations ensures that the insurer cannot take advantage of you. Your attorney will conduct a comprehensive investigation, prepare a compelling demand letter supported by evidence and legal arguments, and aggressively advocate for a settlement that accurately reflects the full value of your case.
Essential Steps to Take After a Car Accident in Houston
Your actions immediately following a car accident are critical and can significantly impact your health and financial recovery. Even minor mistakes can jeopardize your well-being and your ability to obtain fair compensation. Here are important steps to take (and avoid) after a car crash:
- Stay at the Scene: Remain at or near the accident scene. If necessary for safety, move your vehicle to the shoulder of the road or a nearby safe location.
- Report the Accident to the Police: 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 accept responsibility for the accident, even seemingly harmless statements can be used against you later.
- Exchange Information: Exchange essential information with all involved parties, including names, contact information, license plate numbers, and insurance details.
- Gather Evidence at the Scene: If possible and safe, take photos and videos of the accident scene, vehicle damage, and road conditions. Note down details, witness information, and anything relevant to the accident.
- Seek Immediate Medical Attention: Prioritize your health and seek medical evaluation as soon as possible, even if you don’t feel immediate pain. This ensures prompt diagnosis and treatment and creates a crucial record of your injuries.
- Decline Recorded Statements to Insurers: Politely decline to provide a recorded statement to any insurance company without consulting your attorney. Insurers may use recorded statements to twist your words and undermine your claim. Provide basic information only and direct further inquiries to your lawyer.
Finally, contact an experienced attorney for car accident near me in Houston as soon as possible. The more experience your attorney has with car accident cases, the better equipped they are to protect your rights and maximize your compensation.
Our car accident attorneys at Attorney Brian White Personal Injury Lawyers have extensive experience handling hundreds of car accident claims and lawsuits in Houston. We have a deep understanding of insurance company tactics and proven strategies to win financial compensation for our clients. Contact us for a free initial consultation to discuss your case.
Common Causes of Car Accidents in Houston
Car accidents are unfortunately frequent in Houston, Texas. Understanding the leading causes can highlight the importance of safe driving practices and the potential for negligence in accident cases. Some of the primary causes include:
Distracted Driving: Texting and More
Texting while driving is an extremely dangerous form of distracted driving, diverting your attention from the road and significantly increasing accident risk. Studies have shown that texting drivers are significantly more likely to be involved in an accident than drunk drivers.
Other forms of distracted driving include:
- Eating and drinking while driving
- Talking to passengers
- Dealing with children in the backseat
- Reaching for objects inside the vehicle
- Daydreaming or mental distraction
Any activity that takes your hands off the wheel, your eyes off the road, or your mind off driving constitutes distracted driving and increases the risk of accidents.
Drunk Driving
Drunk driving remains a major cause of car accidents. In Houston, hundreds of alcohol-related crashes occur annually, resulting in serious injuries and fatalities. These accidents are entirely preventable and highlight the devastating consequences of impaired driving.
Speeding
Houston’s notorious traffic congestion can lead to driver frustration and speeding in an attempt to make up for lost time. However, speeding significantly increases the risk of accidents and the severity of injuries. Speeding reduces reaction time and increases the force of impact in a crash.
Other common causes of car accidents in Houston include:
- Failure to yield the right of way
- Aggressive driving and road rage
- Inexperienced drivers
- Driving under adverse weather conditions or limited visibility
- Dangerous road conditions and poor road maintenance
- Vehicle defects and equipment malfunctions
- Tire blowouts
A thorough investigation by a skilled attorney for car accident near me is essential to determine all contributing factors to your Houston car accident and establish liability.
Texas: An At-Fault State for Car Accidents
Alt text: Texas at-fault car accident state explanation graphic.
Texas operates as an “at-fault” car accident state. This means that the insurance company of the driver determined to be at fault is responsible for covering the damages resulting from the accident. In contrast to “no-fault” states, Texas allows you to pursue a claim against the responsible driver’s insurance to recover compensation for your losses. This system allows victims to hold negligent drivers accountable for their actions.
If your damages exceed the at-fault driver’s insurance policy limits, you have the right to file a lawsuit against the driver and any other liable parties to seek full compensation.
Partial Fault in a Houston Car Accident: Modified Comparative Fault
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 follows a modified comparative fault system with a 51% bar to recovery.
However, your financial recovery will be reduced proportionally to your percentage of fault. For example, if you are found to be 20% at fault for the accident, your total damages will be reduced by 20%. If your fault exceeds 50%, you are barred from recovering any compensation from the other parties involved.
Proving Negligence in a Houston Car Accident Lawsuit
Alt text: Legal concept of negligence in car accident cases explained.
In most car accident lawsuits in Houston, you will need to prove negligence to recover compensation. Negligence, in legal terms, means that another party acted carelessly or unreasonably, and that carelessness directly caused your injuries and damages.
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 negligent actions (e.g., speeding, distracted driving, drunk driving).
- Causation: The at-fault party’s breach of duty directly caused your car accident and subsequent injuries.
- Damages: You suffered actual damages as a result of the accident, such as 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 negligence occurred. An experienced attorney for car accident near me can help you gather evidence and build a compelling case to prove negligence and maximize your recovery.
Statute of Limitations for Car Accident Lawsuits in Houston
The statute of limitations in Texas sets a time limit for filing a lawsuit after a car accident. For most car accident cases in Texas, the statute of limitations is two years from the date of the accident. This means you have two years from the date of your car crash to file a lawsuit to pursue compensation for your injuries and damages.
Failing to file a lawsuit within this two-year period will likely result in losing your right to recover compensation. While there are limited exceptions that may extend or “toll” the statute of limitations in specific circumstances, it’s crucial to consult with an attorney promptly to ensure you don’t miss the deadline.
Types of Damages Recoverable in a Houston Car Accident
If you are injured in a Houston car accident due to someone else’s negligence, you may be entitled to recover compensatory damages. These damages are designed to compensate you for your losses and can be categorized into economic and non-economic damages.
Economic Damages: Quantifiable Financial Losses
Alt text: Examples of economic damages in a car accident case.
Economic damages are intended to cover the direct financial costs associated with your car accident injuries. These are tangible losses that can be documented and quantified, such as:
- Medical Expenses: Past and future medical bills, including hospital stays, surgeries, doctor visits, medications, physical therapy, and medical equipment.
- Lost Income: Lost wages, salary, and benefits due to time off work for recovery, as well as diminished future earning capacity if your injuries prevent you from returning to your previous job or earning potential.
- Property Damage: Costs to repair or replace your damaged vehicle and other personal property damaged in the accident.
- Other Out-of-Pocket Expenses: Transportation costs to medical appointments, assistive care, home modifications necessary due to your injuries, and other accident-related expenses.
- Funeral and Burial Expenses: In cases of wrongful death, surviving family members can recover funeral and burial costs.
Non-Economic Damages: Intangible Losses
Non-economic damages address the subjective, non-monetary losses resulting from your car accident injuries. These damages are more challenging to quantify but are equally real and significant. They include:
- Pain and Suffering: Compensation for physical pain, discomfort, and emotional distress caused by your injuries.
- Mental Anguish and Emotional Distress: Damages for psychological trauma, anxiety, depression, PTSD, and other emotional consequences of the accident.
- Loss of Enjoyment of Life: Compensation for the diminished ability to participate in hobbies, activities, and everyday life pleasures due to your injuries.
- Disfigurement and Scarring: Damages for permanent scarring or disfigurement resulting from the accident.
- Loss of Consortium: In some cases, spouses can recover damages for the loss of companionship, intimacy, and household services due to their partner’s injuries.
Valuing Pain and Suffering Damages in Texas
Alt text: Methods for calculating pain and suffering damages in Texas courts.
Valuing pain and suffering damages is subjective and complex. Texas courts and insurance companies typically use two primary methods:
- Multiplier Method: This method involves multiplying your total economic damages by a factor (typically between 1 and 5) based on the severity of your injuries and suffering. More severe and long-lasting injuries warrant a higher multiplier.
- Per Diem Method: This method assigns a daily dollar amount for your pain and suffering and multiplies it by the number of days you experience pain and suffering, often until you reach maximum medical improvement. This method is less commonly used than the multiplier method.
Punitive Damages: Punishment for Egregious Conduct
Punitive damages are rarely awarded in car accident cases and are intended to punish the at-fault party for particularly reckless, malicious, or intentional misconduct. In Texas, punitive damages may be considered in cases involving drunk driving accidents, hit-and-run accidents, or intentional acts that caused the accident and injuries.
How the Type of Car Accident Impacts Your Case
Alt text: Different types of car accidents and their legal implications.
The specific type of car accident you were involved in can significantly impact your case. Different accident types present unique challenges in terms of investigation, liability determination, and injury patterns. For example:
- Rollover Accidents: Often involve vehicle defects or driver negligence and can result in severe injuries.
- Rear-End Collisions: Commonly caused by distracted driving or following too closely, often leading to whiplash and soft tissue injuries.
- Fatal Car Accidents: Require wrongful death claims and involve complex legal and emotional considerations for surviving family members.
- Head-On Collisions: Typically result in the most severe injuries and are often caused by impaired driving or wrong-way driving.
- Whiplash Injury Accidents: While often perceived as minor, whiplash injuries can cause chronic pain and long-term disability.
- Single-Vehicle Accidents: May involve road defects, vehicle malfunctions, or driver error, requiring a thorough investigation to determine all contributing factors.
- Car Accidents Due to Road Defects: Involve liability claims against government entities responsible for road maintenance.
Having an attorney for car accident near me with extensive experience handling various types of car accident cases is crucial to effectively navigate the complexities of your specific situation and build a strong case for maximum compensation.
Attorney Brian White Personal Injury Lawyers has a proven track record of representing clients injured in all types of car accidents in Houston. We have the knowledge, resources, and experience to handle the unique challenges of your case and fight for the justice and compensation you deserve.
Houston Car Accident Lawyers You Can Trust
Choosing the right attorney for car accident near me is a critical decision that can significantly impact the outcome of your personal injury case. You need an attorney with a proven track record of success, extensive experience in car accident law, and a genuine commitment to your well-being.
Attorney Brian White Personal Injury Lawyers is dedicated to providing compassionate and effective legal representation to car accident victims in Houston. We understand the challenges you face after a car accident and are committed to guiding you through the legal process with care and expertise.
We offer 24/7 availability and flexible consultation options to accommodate your needs. We can meet you at our office, your home, workplace, or even the hospital. Contact us today for a free, no-obligation consultation to discuss your case and explore your legal options. We work on a contingency fee basis, so you pay no attorney fees unless we win your case.
What Our Clients Are Saying About Us
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Clint was my trial attorney. Before the trial and throughout the process he was attentive and communicated with detail all I needed to do and expect throughout the process. My settlement was more than expected. I would most definitely recommend this law firm to my family and friends! They will take great care of you!
I’m grateful for them!!
Krys S. – February 2022
Read more of our Google Reviews.
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.
