Progreso Personal Injury Lawyer — Hidalgo County, Texas

You should seek medical attention as soon as possible after an injury, even if symptoms seem minor. Prompt treatment documents your injuries and supports both your health and any future claim. Keep all medical records, bills, and notes about symptoms and treatment. These records form the basis of your damages claim and help your attorney calculate the compensation you may be owed.

In most personal injury cases in Texas, you must file a lawsuit within two years from the date of the injury. Missing this deadline can bar your ability to pursue compensation in court. There are exceptions that may extend or shorten the deadline depending on the circumstances, such as claims involving governmental entities. Discuss your case promptly so important time limits are preserved.

Many claims are resolved through negotiation and settlement without a trial, but some cases require filing a lawsuit and presenting the dispute to a judge or jury. The decision to litigate depends on factors like liability disputes and settlement offers. Your attorney will advise when litigation is likely necessary and will prepare the case thoroughly if court is required, while seeking settlement opportunities when appropriate.

Pain and suffering damages compensate non-economic harms such as physical pain, emotional distress, and loss of enjoyment of life. These damages are subjective and assessed based on medical evidence, injury severity, and how the injury affects daily life. Attorneys use comparisons to similar cases, medical records, and testimony to support a reasonable valuation. Documenting your symptoms, limitations, and emotional effects strengthens these claims.

If the at-fault driver lacks sufficient insurance, your own uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage may provide compensation. Review your policy and consult an attorney to determine available options. In some situations, other responsible parties or assets may be pursued. An attorney can investigate all possible sources of recovery to maximize your compensation.

Most personal injury cases are handled on a contingency fee basis, meaning fees are collected as a percentage of any recovery and there are no upfront attorney fees. This allows injured people to obtain representation regardless of immediate financial resources. You may still be responsible for certain case costs such as expert fees or filing fees, but those are typically advanced by the firm and reimbursed from any settlement or judgment. Confirm fee arrangements during your initial consultation.

Photographs of the scene, vehicle damage, visible injuries, and hazardous conditions are valuable evidence. Police reports, witness statements, and medical records also play a central role in establishing what happened and who is at fault. Preserve receipts, repair estimates, and documentation of lost wages. Timely preservation of evidence makes it easier for your attorney to present a clear and persuasive case.

Texas follows a modified comparative fault rule, which reduces recovery by your percentage of fault but may still allow recovery if you are less than 51% responsible. Your damages award is multiplied by the percentage of fault attributed to the other party or parties. An attorney will analyze the evidence to minimize your assigned fault and pursue the maximum possible recovery based on the facts of your case.

Resolution time varies depending on injury severity, treatment timelines, complexity of liability, and willingness of insurers to settle. Some claims resolve within months while others may take a year or longer if litigation becomes necessary. Your attorney will seek timely resolution but will also ensure any settlement fairly compensates for future medical needs and long-term losses before agreeing to close the case.

Bring any medical records, bills, accident reports, photos, insurance information, and notes about the incident. Even incomplete documents help the attorney understand your situation and recommend next steps. If you lack documentation, provide names of witnesses and dates of treatment. The initial consultation will focus on gathering facts and outlining practical options for moving forward.