When someone gets involved in an accident due to another person’s negligence, their first instinct is to call a personal injury lawyer in Houston to pursue the compensation they deserve.
While this is the recommended approach, it doesn’t take away from the fact that you must have a basic understanding of personal injury law and your rights.
The more knowledge you have, the better you’ll be able to make informed decisions with the help of your lawyer.
What Is Personal Injury Law?
This legal framework protects the rights of individuals who have suffered bodily harm due to the negligence or wrongdoing of another person. The victims can seek settlement for their losses, including medical expenses, lost wages, physical injuries, and emotional suffering.
Personal injury law also applies to property damages, but most cases involve physical injuries. These cases can arise from car crashes, slip-and-falls, workplace incidents, medical malpractice, and product defects.
Understanding Your Rights in Houston, TX
In Houston, TX, individuals have the right to seek financial compensation from the party deemed responsible for causing their injuries or disfigurement, given they have sufficient evidence to prove the at-fault party’s liability for the injuries.
Here’s what you should know:
Types of Damages
Personal injury victims in Houston, TX, may be entitled to different types of damages, including economic damages (medical expenses, lost wages, loss of earning capacity, and property damage) plus non-economic damages (bodily pain, physical impairment, emotional distress, psychological trauma, and compromised quality of life).
Some cases also involve punitive damages to punish grossly negligent parties or those proven to have shown intentional misconduct.
1. Statute of Limitations
In Texas, victims can file a personal injury claim to initiate legal action against the defendant within two years of the accident. Those who miss this deadline may lose their right to compensation.
2. Comparative Negligence
Texas follows a modified comparative negligence rule. If you are even partially responsible for an accident, the compensation you receive may be reduced proportionally to your level of fault.
However, you may not recover any damages if your fault is more than 50%.
3. No-Fault Insurance
Since Texas is not a no-fault insurance state, the insurance company of the party at fault generally compensates the injured party.
Please note that Texas law requires drivers to carry minimum liability insurance coverage of $30,000 for injuries per person.
Let a Personal Injury Lawyer in Houston Help Protect Your Rights
A personal injury lawyer in Houston will assess the details of your case, gather evidence, and determine the strength of your claim. They will advise you on the best course of action accordingly.
Representing you at every step, they will deal with insurance companies, other attorneys, and other parties involved in the case to ensure you don’t fall victim to unfair tactics. As a result, you’ll be able to achieve a settlement for your losses.
In cases where a settlement cannot be reached outside of court, your lawyer may take your case to trial and advocate for you in front of a judge and jury so you have the best chance of obtaining a favorable verdict.
If you’re looking for the best personal injury lawyer in Houston to begin the claims process immediately, call WestLoop Law at (346) 215-0788.