Dumas Personal Injury Attorney in Texas

How long do I have to file a personal injury lawsuit in Texas? For most personal injury cases in Texas, you generally have two years from the date of injury to file a lawsuit. Certain circumstances can extend or shorten that period, so contacting an attorney early helps ensure applicable deadlines are met and preserve your legal options.

Seek medical attention promptly, even if you feel okay, because some injuries appear later. Document the scene if safe to do so, exchange information with the other party, and get contact details for witnesses. Notify your insurer as required but avoid signing releases or accepting a settlement offer without a full review. Preserve evidence such as photos, repair estimates, and medical records and contact a personal injury attorney for guidance.

Many personal injury claims resolve through negotiations and settlement without trial. A settlement can provide a faster resolution and avoid court time. If negotiations fail to produce a fair outcome, we prepare cases for litigation and will pursue trial when necessary to secure appropriate compensation for your injuries and losses.

The value of a claim depends on medical expenses, lost income, future care needs, and non-economic impacts like pain and suffering. Each case is unique and requires careful documentation to estimate full value. Insurance policies, comparative fault, and the strength of liability evidence also influence recovery amounts. We evaluate your case details to provide an informed estimate and strategy for maximizing compensation.

We handle personal injury claims on a contingency-fee basis, which means you do not pay attorney fees unless we recover compensation on your behalf. This arrangement allows many injured people to pursue claims without upfront legal costs. There may be costs associated with investigations or obtaining records, which we typically advance and recover from any settlement or award, so discuss fee and cost arrangements during your consultation.

Texas follows a modified comparative fault system, so a claimant can recover damages if they are less than 51% at fault. Your recovery will be reduced by your percentage of fault. Assigning fault can be complex and requires thorough investigation. We analyze the evidence to minimize assigned fault and advocate for fair allocation of responsibility.

Case timelines vary widely. Some claims resolve in a few months, while more complex matters involving serious injuries or litigation can take a year or longer. The pace depends on medical treatment, investigations, and insurer cooperation. We provide regular updates and work to advance your claim efficiently while protecting your long-term interests and ensuring all damages are fully documented before settlement.

Recoverable damages commonly include medical expenses, lost wages, loss of earning capacity, property damage, and compensation for pain and suffering. In certain cases, punitive damages may be available if the defendant’s conduct was particularly reckless. Calculating damages requires compiling bills, pay records, and medical opinions about future needs to ensure all losses are reflected in settlement negotiations or court presentations.

Insurance companies may request recorded statements early in the claim process. You should avoid providing recorded statements without legal advice, as offhand comments can be used to deny or reduce your claim. Consulting with an attorney before answering substantive insurer questions helps protect your rights and ensures statements are accurate and do not harm your claim.

Call (713) 780-1633 or request a free consultation to discuss your situation. During the initial review we will evaluate liability, damages, and next steps to preserve evidence and advance your claim. If you choose to proceed, we will outline our approach, discuss fees and costs, and begin the investigation and documentation needed to pursue full compensation on your behalf.