Stratford Personal Injury Lawyer — Serving Sherman County, Texas

Most injury victims have questions about timing and next steps. Start by getting medical care and keeping all records related to treatment and expenses. An initial legal review can determine whether a claim should be filed and what evidence is needed to support compensation for medical bills, lost income, and other losses.

In most cases, 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 claim in court. Certain situations can change the deadline, such as claims against a government entity or cases where the injury was not discovered right away. A prompt consultation helps identify applicable timelines.

Many cases resolve through negotiation with insurers without a trial, but some matters require formal litigation when fault is disputed or offers are inadequate. The decision to file suit depends on whether a fair settlement can be reached. We prepare each case as if it may go to court to ensure strong documentation and a credible position in negotiations or trial proceedings.

Recoverable damages commonly include medical expenses, future medical costs, lost wages, loss of earning capacity, property damage, and compensation for pain and suffering. The specific types and amounts of recovery depend on the severity of the injury, the evidence available, and the degree of fault established for the responsible parties.

We typically handle personal injury matters on a contingency fee basis, which means legal fees are assessed as a percentage of any recovery and there is no fee if no recovery is obtained. Clients are informed in advance about fee arrangements and potential case costs so there are no surprises during the process.

It is generally advisable to consult with a lawyer before providing a recorded statement. Insurers often seek early statements that can be used to minimize or deny claims. A lawyer can advise whether a statement is necessary and help protect your interests during communications with insurance adjusters.

Texas follows comparative responsibility rules, so a claimant may still recover damages reduced by their percentage of fault. Your recovery will be adjusted to reflect any assigned share of responsibility. Accurately establishing the other parties’ degree of fault and documenting your losses remains important even when comparative responsibility is at issue.

Resolution times vary widely based on case complexity, the extent of injuries, and whether the matter settles or goes to trial. Some claims settle in months, while others take a year or longer. Ongoing medical treatment and the need for expert opinions can extend timelines, but we aim to move cases forward efficiently while protecting client interests.

Individuals with minor injuries and straightforward liability might pursue a claim directly with an insurer, but handling negotiations, documentation, and deadlines can be challenging without legal knowledge. Consulting a lawyer for an initial review can help you understand the strength of your claim and whether representation would improve your chances of fair compensation.

Bring any medical records, bills, accident reports, photos, and correspondence from insurers. Providing as much information as possible helps evaluate liability and damages quickly. If you do not have all documents available, tell the lawyer what records exist and where they can be obtained so the firm can begin gathering necessary evidence.