We are Houston's Premier Attorneys for Car Accidents
If you or a loved one has been injured in a crash in Houston, it’s crucial to have the right legal guidance. Our experienced Houston’s car accident attorneys are here to provide valuable insights, answer common questions, and guide you through every step of the legal process.
Understanding Your Rights After a Car Accident in Houston
After a car accident in Houston, it can feel overwhelming to know what steps to take. You may be dealing with physical injuries, emotional stress, and financial concerns. But it’s important to understand that you have legal rights that can help you recover compensation for medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering, and more.
Request a Free Consultation with an Attorney
Fill out the form below to receive a free and confidential intial consultation with a Tylka Law Firm attorney.
Key Areas Tylka Law Firm Excels In For Houston Car Accident Matters:
- Personal Injury Claims: Seeking compensation for injuries caused by someone else’s negligence.
- Insurance Disputes: Navigating claims with insurance companies and ensuring you’re treated fairly.
- Vehicle Damage Claims: Getting the compensation needed to repair or replace your vehicle.
- Wrongful Death Cases: If a loved one was killed in an accident, we’re here to provide compassionate, expert legal support.
When Should You Hire a Houston Car Accident Lawyer?
While not every car accident requires a lawyer, there are circumstances where having an attorney on your side can make all the difference. You should consider hiring a car accident attorney if:
- You’ve sustained significant injuries that require medical attention or long-term care.
- The accident involves multiple parties or complex liability issues.
- The insurance company is offering a low settlement or denying your claim.
- There is a dispute about fault, and you need legal representation to protect your interests.
A skilled attorney can help you navigate the complex legal and insurance processes, negotiate with at-fault parties, and represent you in court if necessary.
Frequently Asked Questions About Texas-Specific Car Accident Claims & Law
Texas has distinctive personal injury laws that differ from federal standards and other states in terms of deadlines, damage limitations, and liability rules. The following FAQs can help answer some of your preliminary questions.
Q: How long do I have to file a car accident claim/lawsuit in Houston?
- The standard statute of limitations is two years from the date of the accident for personal injury claims
- Property damage claims also carry a two-year statute of limitations
- Claims against government entities have much shorter notice requirements:
- Texas state government: 6 months
- Many cities and counties: 90 days or less depending on local ordinances
- Minors have until two years after their 18th birthday to file claims
- The “discovery rule” rarely applies in car accident cases
- Missing these deadlines permanently bars recovery regardless of fault or injury severity
- Limited exceptions exist for defendants who leave the state or fraudulently conceal facts
- Federal motor carrier regulations may affect deadlines in commercial vehicle accidents
- Consulting with a Tylka Law Firm attorney promptly after an accident ensures critical filing deadlines are protected
Q: What should I do if the other driver doesn't have insurance?
If you’re involved in an accident with an uninsured driver, your own insurance policy may cover your damages if you have uninsured motorist coverage. Our attorneys can help you explore your options and ensure you get the compensation you deserve.
Q: Will I have to go to court for my car accident case?
While many car accident cases are settled outside of court, some may require a trial if a fair settlement cannot be reached. We will always work to resolve your case as efficiently as possible, but we’ll be prepared to fight for your rights in court if necessary.
Q: How can we help you with your Houston Car Accident case?
If you’ve been involved in a Houston car accident, don’t navigate the legal process alone. Our experienced attorneys at the Tylka Law Center are here to help you every step of the way—from gathering evidence to negotiating settlements or representing you in court. We understand the challenges you’re facing and are committed to securing the compensation you deserve.
Steps to Take After a Car Accident: Protect Your Rights and Health
Car accidents can be overwhelming, and in the aftermath, it can be difficult to know what to do. Knowing the right steps to take after a crash can significantly affect your health, your legal rights, and your ability to seek compensation for any injuries or damages. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you navigate the immediate aftermath of a car accident:
- Ensure Safety First
- Move to a Safe Location: If you’re able to do so, move your vehicle to a safe area, such as the shoulder of the road. Turn on your hazard lights to alert other drivers to stay clear.
- Check for Injuries: Check yourself, your passengers, and others involved in the accident for injuries. If anyone is injured, call 911 immediately for medical help.
- Call 911
- Report the Accident: Regardless of how minor the accident seems, always call the police. A police report will provide an official record of the incident, which is essential for your insurance claim and any potential legal actions.
- Cooperate with Law Enforcement: When the police arrive, answer their questions accurately and calmly. They will likely ask for details about what happened, so providing a clear and concise account will help their investigation.
- Exchange Information
- Collect Contact Details: Exchange names, addresses, phone numbers, driver’s license numbers, and vehicle registration details with the other driver(s). This information is vital for your insurance claim and any legal proceedings.
- Insurance Information: Share your insurance company name and policy number with the other driver(s). Don’t admit fault or make any statements that could be used against you later.
- Document the Accident Scene
- Take Photos: Use your phone or a camera to take clear, detailed photos of the accident scene, including:
- The damage to all vehicles involved
- The positions of the vehicles on the road
- Any visible skid marks, debris, or traffic signs
- The surrounding area, including weather conditions, traffic signals, and road conditions
- Gather Witnesses: If there were any witnesses to the accident, ask for their names and contact information. Witness testimony can be crucial in proving fault.
- Take Photos: Use your phone or a camera to take clear, detailed photos of the accident scene, including:
- Seek Medical Attention
- Get Checked by a Doctor: Even if you don’t feel injured, it’s critical to see a healthcare professional as soon as possible. Some injuries, like whiplash or internal injuries, may not show symptoms immediately but can worsen over time.
- Follow Your Doctor’s Instructions: Ensure that you follow all recommended treatments, attend follow-up appointments, and keep records of all medical visits. These documents will be crucial if you pursue a personal injury claim.
- Notify Your Insurance Company
- Report the Accident to Your Insurer: Contact your insurance company to report the accident as soon as possible. Most insurance policies require prompt notification, and failing to do so could jeopardize your claim.
- Provide the Facts: Stick to the facts when reporting the accident. Avoid speculating about fault or making statements that could harm your claim.
- Don’t Settle Quickly: Insurance adjusters may try to offer a quick settlement, but it’s important not to accept any offer before fully understanding the extent of your injuries and damages.
- Consult with a Personal Injury Attorney
- Get Legal Advice: If you’ve been injured or if the accident was caused by another driver’s negligence, it’s a good idea to consult with a personal injury attorney. They can help you understand your rights, handle communication with insurance companies, and ensure you’re fairly compensated for medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other damages.
- Don’t Talk to the Other Party’s Insurer Without Legal Representation: Be cautious when dealing with the other driver’s insurance company. They may attempt to settle the case quickly and for less than you deserve. A personal injury lawyer can protect your interests and handle negotiations on your behalf.
- Keep Detailed Records
- Track Your Medical Treatment: Keep all medical records, bills, and receipts related to the treatment of your injuries. If you’ve missed work due to your injuries, keep a log of missed days and any lost wages.
- Document Pain and Suffering: Record any pain, discomfort, or emotional distress you experience as a result of the accident. This information can be helpful in calculating compensation for pain and suffering.
- Be Cautious of Early Settlements
- Consider All Your Costs: It may be tempting to accept an early settlement offer, but consider the full extent of your injuries and losses before agreeing. Medical treatments may take months, and some injuries can cause long-term effects.
- Consult Your Attorney: Your attorney will help you evaluate whether the settlement offer is fair or if you should pursue a larger claim.
Why Hire the Tylka Law Center
The best reason to hire the car accident lawyers at the Tylka Law Center is simple: There’s no downside.
We offer our clients a No Fee Guarantee, which means that if we don’t recover money for you, you never owe us a dime.
It’s our goal to provide the best customer service possible. We want every single one of our clients to feel that we care about them and that their claim is being handled in the manner it deserves.
We want to help you get back to as good a position as you were in before the crash, if not better.
Contact Us Today for a Free Consultation!
Our legal team offers a free, no-obligation consultation to discuss your case and determine the best course of action. Call us at (877) 228-9552 or click on the button to fill out the contact form below, and we’ll get in touch with you promptly.
