Granbury Personal Injury Lawyer in Texas

How long do I have to file a personal injury claim in Texas? In most cases, Texas law requires lawsuits to be filed within two years of the injury date. Exceptions can apply, so it’s important to seek advice early to protect your rights. How soon should I seek representation? Contacting a lawyer promptly helps preserve evidence and meet important deadlines. Even if you’re unsure about hiring representation, an early consultation can clarify your options.

Insurance companies often make early offers that may not cover future medical costs or other losses. Before accepting any payment, review the offer with legal counsel to ensure it fairly compensates you. Accepting a settlement typically ends your right to pursue further compensation, so consider long-term care and recovery needs before agreeing to any settlement.

Many personal injury claims resolve through negotiation and settlement without going to trial. However, if a fair settlement cannot be reached, preparing for court protects your ability to seek full recovery. A lawyer can advise when settlement is appropriate and when litigation is necessary to pursue your best interests.

Fault is established through evidence such as police reports, witness statements, photographs, and expert analysis. Texas follows comparative fault rules that can affect recovery if you share some responsibility. Documentation of the crash scene and prompt medical records are important to support your version of events and damages.

A full valuation considers both current medical bills and reasonable projected future treatment costs. Medical opinions and cost estimates play a key role in calculating future damages. Settlements should account for ongoing care needs, rehabilitation, and potential changes in health or employment caused by the injury.

Most personal injury firms work on a contingency fee basis, meaning fees are paid from the recovery. This arrangement aligns the lawyer’s interests with obtaining fair compensation for the client. Discuss fee details and any potential case expenses during your initial consultation so you understand the financial arrangement up front.

You can pursue a claim on your own, but handling insurance negotiations, medical liens, and legal filings can be complex and time-consuming. Legal guidance helps ensure damages are fully documented and pursued. For serious injuries or disputed liability, professional representation reduces the risk of leaving compensation on the table.

Helpful evidence includes medical records, photos of injuries and the scene, police reports, witness contact information, and documentation of lost wages or property damage. Timely evidence collection and preservation strengthen your claim and support accurate damage calculations during negotiations.

Case timelines vary based on injury severity, the need for ongoing treatment, and whether the matter settles or proceeds to trial. Many cases resolve within months, while more complex matters can take longer. Your lawyer should provide periodic updates and a realistic timeline based on the specifics of your case.

Get medical care right away, document the scene, collect witness information, and report the incident to relevant authorities or employers as appropriate. Avoid giving recorded statements to insurers without legal guidance. Contact a Granbury personal injury lawyer to discuss the incident and next steps for preserving evidence and pursuing compensation.