Hawkins Personal Injury Attorney Serving Wood County, Texas

How long do I have to file a personal injury lawsuit in Texas? In Texas, the general deadline to file most personal injury lawsuits is two years from the date of the injury. Some exceptions can extend or shorten that period depending on the circumstances, so it is important to consult promptly to preserve your rights.

Seek medical attention right away, even if you think injuries are minor. Prompt treatment documents your injuries and supports a link between the incident and your medical condition. Gather information at the scene if you can: photos, witness contacts, and details about the other parties or property involved. Notify your insurer and consult with a lawyer before giving recorded statements or accepting settlement offers.

Many personal injury cases are resolved through negotiation or mediation with insurers before trial. However, if a fair settlement cannot be reached, taking the case to court may be necessary to pursue full compensation. Preparing for trial helps strengthen settlement discussions; we develop evidence and legal arguments as if the case will proceed to litigation to ensure readiness and better leverage in negotiations.

Damages typically include past and future medical expenses, lost income, and compensation for pain and suffering. The value of non-economic damages depends on the severity and impact of the injury on daily life. Documentation such as medical bills, wage statements, and expert opinions can support calculations for both economic and non-economic losses during settlement talks or at trial.

Yes. Texas follows a comparative fault system where your recovery is reduced by your percentage of responsibility. If you are 20% at fault, for example, your recovery would be reduced by 20%. It is important to accurately assess fault and present evidence that minimizes your share of responsibility. A lawyer can help contest improper fault assignments and protect your recovery.

Case duration varies based on injury severity, complexity, and insurer cooperation. Some matters resolve in months, while more complex claims involving prolonged medical treatment or disputes can take a year or more. Early investigation and proactive case management can often shorten the timeline. We provide regular updates and set realistic expectations about timing based on the specifics of each case.

We typically handle personal injury matters on a contingency basis, meaning fees are collected from any recovery rather than upfront. This approach allows injured people to pursue claims without immediate out-of-pocket legal costs. You remain responsible for certain costs related to the case, which are discussed during the initial consultation and handled transparently throughout the matter.

You can pursue compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, reduced earning capacity, property damage, and non-economic losses such as pain and suffering. In limited circumstances, punitive damages may be available. Accurate documentation and expert input where needed support claims for both economic and non-economic damages during settlement negotiations or trial.

Contact The White Law Firm, P.C. by phone at (713) 780-1633 or through our website to schedule an initial consultation. We will review the facts, answer your questions, and explain potential next steps. During the intake, we discuss fees, gather relevant documents, and identify immediate actions to protect evidence and preserve your claim.

Yes. Once retained, we communicate with insurers, gather needed records, and negotiate on your behalf to pursue fair compensation. This reduces stress and helps ensure statements or documents are handled properly. We also advise whether settlement offers are appropriate and explain the implications of any release or agreement before you accept.