Keene Personal Injury Lawyer — Johnson County, Texas

Many injury cases are handled on a contingency fee basis, meaning payment is due only if there is a recovery. This structure allows injured people to pursue claims without up-front legal fees. Contingency arrangements typically include a percentage of recovered funds to cover legal fees and may also list case expenses. We discuss fee terms during the initial review and provide a clear agreement before taking action.

In most Texas personal injury cases, the statute of limitations is two years from the date of the injury, but exceptions can apply depending on the circumstances. It’s important to act promptly to preserve evidence and avoid missing a filing deadline. Certain claims, such as those against government entities, have shorter notice periods and special procedures. Contacting a law firm early helps identify applicable deadlines and necessary steps to protect your rights.

Insurance companies often make early offers that are lower than the full value of a claim. Accepting a quick offer without fully understanding future medical needs and damages can leave you undercompensated. Before accepting any offer, review medical records and recovery prospects. Having a representative negotiate on your behalf helps ensure offers account for all present and future losses.

Recoverable damages may include past and future medical expenses, lost wages and earning capacity, property damage, and non-economic losses such as pain and suffering. In some cases, punitive damages may be available where conduct was particularly harmful. Valuing damages requires careful documentation of medical treatment, employment records, and expert assessments of long-term needs. Accurate valuation strengthens settlement negotiations and trial presentations.

Most personal injury cases resolve through settlement rather than trial, as settlements provide a quicker and more certain outcome. However, litigation remains an important option when insurers refuse fair compensation. Preparing a case for trial enhances negotiating leverage and ensures you are ready to proceed if a fair settlement cannot be reached. We prepare each case with both settlement and trial in mind.

Case duration varies widely depending on injury severity, treatment timeline, liability disputes, and insurer cooperation. Some cases settle within months, while complex matters may take a year or longer. Prompt investigation and clear documentation can help move a claim forward. We provide timelines based on the specifics of your case and keep you informed of expected steps and milestones.

Prioritize your health: seek medical attention and follow recommended treatment. Document the scene with photos, gather contact information for witnesses, and keep records of all medical visits and expenses. Avoid detailed statements to insurance adjusters until you have legal guidance, and contact a firm to review the case. Early action helps preserve evidence and protect your ability to seek compensation.

Texas follows a modified comparative fault rule: an injured person can recover damages if they are less than 51% responsible, with recovery reduced by their percentage of fault. If you are 51% or more at fault, recovery is barred. Determining fault often involves reviewing police reports, witness statements, and available evidence. A representative can help evaluate the comparative fault issues and pursue the best possible outcome under the law.

Medical providers may send bills while your claim is pending. Health insurance or medical liens can sometimes cover costs upfront, which can later be reimbursed from any settlement or judgment depending on coverage and agreements. We coordinate with medical providers and insurers to document treatment costs and negotiate lien resolutions so medical expenses are properly accounted for in settlement discussions.

Filing a claim generally should not negatively affect lawful employment, but it’s important to review any employer policies or workers’ compensation rules that may apply. Communication with employers about injuries should be handled carefully to protect job-related rights. If you receive public benefits or workers’ compensation, coordination may be necessary to address subrogation and repayment issues. We help evaluate interactions with benefits and advise on protecting your overall financial interests.