Port Lavaca Personal Injury Attorney Serving Clients in Texas

How long do I have to file a personal injury lawsuit in Texas? In most situations, the deadline to file a personal injury lawsuit in Texas is two years from the date of the injury. Missing this deadline can bar your right to pursue a claim, so it is important to act promptly. Certain exceptions may extend or shorten the deadline depending on the circumstances of the case. Consulting with legal counsel early helps ensure deadlines are identified and preserved.

Prioritize your safety and seek medical attention as needed. Report the accident to local authorities if required and document the scene with photos when possible. Exchange contact and insurance information with other involved parties and collect contact details for witnesses. Keep records of medical visits, bills, and any lost-time from work, and limit communications with insurers until you understand your rights and options.

Many personal injury claims resolve through negotiated settlements with insurers, but some matters require litigation when liability is disputed or offers do not fairly compensate injuries. Preparing a case as if it will go to trial helps strengthen negotiation leverage and ensures you are ready if the matter must be litigated for a just result.

Fault is determined by evaluating evidence such as police reports, witness statements, photos, surveillance footage, and expert opinions when necessary. Texas applies comparative responsibility rules that can reduce recovery when the injured person shares fault. A careful investigation identifies responsible parties and quantifies how fault impacts potential recovery.

Yes, a personal injury claim can include anticipated future medical costs when supported by medical records and professional opinions regarding ongoing care. Documenting treatment plans and rehabilitation needs helps establish a reasonable estimate of future expenses that should be considered in any settlement or jury award.

Pain and suffering are non-economic damages intended to compensate for physical discomfort and emotional distress. Calculations vary based on injury severity, recovery duration, treatment intensity, and how the injury affects daily life. A well-documented case that shows the real impact of injuries tends to support appropriate valuation of these damages.

If you have health insurance, it may cover immediate medical care; uninsured or underinsured individuals may face out-of-pocket costs initially. In some cases, medical providers may agree to liens or deferred payments pending settlement. Discussing options early can help manage medical expenses while the claim progresses.

If the at-fault party is uninsured or underinsured, your own insurance policy may provide coverage through uninsured/underinsured motorist benefits. Reviewing your policy and insurance options helps determine available recovery routes and whether additional legal steps are warranted.

Resolution timelines vary widely depending on injury severity, case complexity, and insurer responsiveness. Some claims settle within months, while others take a year or longer when litigation is necessary. Ongoing communication and realistic expectations help manage the process while focusing on recovery.

Personal injury representation is often provided on a contingency fee basis, meaning legal fees are paid as a percentage of any recovery rather than upfront. Discussing the fee arrangement and potential costs during an initial consultation provides clarity about what to expect and ensures transparency throughout the case.