Have you or a loved one been injured in an auto accident in Houston? Contact The Edwards Law Firm today. Our Houston car accident lawyers can help you get fair compensation.
Houston's vibrant energy extends to its bustling streets. But with so many cars on the road, accidents are bound to happen. If you've been involved in a car crash in Houston, TX, the aftermath can be overwhelming. Medical bills pile up, injuries sideline you from work, and dealing with insurance companies can feel like navigating a maze.
That's where The Edwards Law Firm, your Houston car accident lawyer team, steps in. We understand the unique challenges Houstonians face after car accidents – from head-on collisions on I-10 to rollovers on the Beltway. We've seen it all.
The reality is not all car accidents are created equal. Maybe it was a driver running a red light at Kirby and Westheimer, or a distracted driver on the Katy Freeway. Regardless of the cause, if you're the victim of someone else's negligence and left with car accident injuries, you deserve fair compensation for your medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering.
The Edwards Law Firm isn't afraid to take on your car wreck case, fight the insurance adjusters (both your own and the other driver's), and pursue a Texas car accident settlement or lawsuit that reflects the true cost of your injuries. We offer a free case evaluation, so you can discuss your options with an experienced Houston car accident lawyer at no upfront cost. Don't settle for less than you deserve. Let The Edwards Law Firm protect your rights and fight for the compensation you need to get back on your feet after a Houston car accident.
An automobile accident refers to any collision involving one or more vehicles on roads or highways. These incidents can range from minor fender benders to severe, multi-vehicle crashes resulting in serious injuries, fatalities, and significant property damage.
Auto accidents can range from minor fender-benders to life-altering collisions. Understanding the different types of car accidents common in Houston can help you be more prepared, both on the road and if you're ever involved in one. Here at The Edwards Law Firm, we've helped countless Houstonians navigate the aftermath of car crashes. Here's a breakdown of some of the most frequent types of car accidents we see in Houston, TX:
Rear-end collisions, often referred to as "fender-benders," are some of the most common car accidents in Houston. They typically occur when the front end of one vehicle collides with the rear end of another vehicle ahead of it. These accidents often happen due to:
While rear-end collisions may seem minor, they can still cause whiplash, back injuries, and other soft tissue damage. If you've been injured in a rear-end collision in Houston, it's crucial to seek medical attention and speak with a Houston car accident lawyer to understand your rights and options for compensation.
Intersections are another hotspot for car accidents in Houston. These collisions can take many forms, but some common types include:
Many intersection accidents involve violations of traffic signals or right-of-way rules. An experienced Houston car accident attorney can investigate the cause of the crash and determine fault to ensure you receive the compensation you deserve for your injuries.
Head-on collisions are some of the most severe car accidents due to the direct impact forces involved. These accidents often occur due to:
The injuries sustained in head-on collisions can be catastrophic, including broken bones, spinal cord injuries, and traumatic brain injuries (TBIs). If you've been injured in a head-on collision caused by another driver's negligence, contacting a Houston car accident lawyer with experience handling serious injury cases is crucial. They can fight for the maximum compensation you need to cover your medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering.
While less common than other types of accidents, rollovers can be particularly dangerous due to the risk of ejection and crushing injuries. These accidents often involve:
If you've been injured in a rollover accident in Houston, The Edwards Law Firm can help. We understand the complex factors involved in these types of crashes and can fight for fair compensation from the at-fault driver or their insurance company.
Here's a crucial fact: not all car accidents happen for the same reasons. It could be a driver blatantly disregarding a red light at the busy intersection of Kirby and Westheimer, or someone texting and driving on the Katy Freeway. Regardless of the cause, if another driver's negligence resulted in your car accident injuries, you deserve fair compensation for your medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering.
Let’s discuss some of the main causes of car accidents in Houston:
Many car accidents in Houston stem from driver behavior that disregards the safety of others. Here are some of the most common culprits:
Houston's unique weather patterns and infrastructure can also play a role in car accidents:
While you can't control the actions of other drivers, there are steps you can take to minimize your own risk of being involved in a car accident in Houston:
Car accidents, even those occurring at relatively low speeds, can cause a wide range of injuries due to the tremendous forces involved. At The Edwards Law Firm, our car accident lawyers have seen firsthand the devastating impacts these injuries can have on car accident victims and their families. Some of the most common injuries in crash wrecks we encounter include:
While most traffic laws and regulations are governed at the state level, there are also federal laws in place that aim to promote safety on America's roads and highways. As experienced Houston car wreck lawyers, we at The Edwards Law Firm are well-versed in these federal laws and how they impact our clients' cases.
One of the most significant federal laws related to road traffic is the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Regulations (FMCSR). These regulations, enforced by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA), establish standards for commercial motor vehicles, including trucks and buses. The FMCSR covers areas such as driver qualifications, hours of service, vehicle maintenance, and cargo securement.
Another important federal law is the National Traffic and Motor Vehicle Safety Act, which gives the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) the authority to set and enforce safety standards for motor vehicles and automotive equipment. This includes regulations on seatbelts, airbags, and vehicle recalls.
The Federal Highway Safety Act is also worth noting, as it provides funding for various highway safety programs and initiatives, such as impaired driving prevention, occupant protection, and traffic record improvements.
Understanding these federal laws and how they intersect with state regulations is crucial in building a strong car crash case. Our Houston car accident attorneys leverage their knowledge of these laws to investigate accidents thoroughly, determine liability, and ensure that all responsible parties are held accountable.
Whether a case involves a commercial vehicle, a defective automotive component, or a violation of federal safety standards, our legal team has the expertise to navigate these complexities and fight for the maximum compensation our clients deserve.
Houston's sprawling freeways, busy intersections, and mix of experienced and inexperienced drivers create a unique environment for car accidents. While the basic principles of car accident law apply throughout Texas, navigating a car accident claim in Houston presents some particular challenges. Here at The Edwards Law Firm, our Houston car accident lawyers understand these complexities and are prepared to fight for the fair compensation you deserve.
Houston's vast network of highways and freeways, like I-10, I-610, and the Katy Freeway (I-69), can be confusing for even seasoned drivers. Multi-lane traffic, aggressive driving, and frequent lane changes create a higher risk of accidents. Understanding how these factors might have contributed to your specific accident requires an attorney familiar with Houston's traffic patterns.
Texas has a higher rate of uninsured drivers than the national average. Unfortunately, if the at-fault driver in your accident has no insurance, recovering compensation becomes significantly more difficult. An experienced Houston car accident lawyer can explore all options, including your own underinsured motorist coverage and pursuing claims against other liable parties.
Houston is known for its fast-paced lifestyle, which can sometimes translate to aggressive driving behaviors. Speeding, tailgating, and reckless lane changes are all too common, significantly increasing the risk of accidents. Our experienced attorneys understand how to build a case that demonstrates the other driver's negligence in these situations.
Dealing with insurance companies after a Houston car accident can be frustrating. Adjusters may try to downplay the severity of your injuries or deny your claim altogether. Our Houston car accident lawyers understand the tactics insurance companies use and are skilled negotiators who will fight for the maximum compensation you deserve, both from your own insurance company and the at-fault driver's.
Here at The Edwards Law Firm, our experienced Houston car accident lawyers understand the complexities of car accident lawsuits and are dedicated to helping you recover the compensation you deserve.
But how do you prove someone else is to blame for your Houston car accident? Here's a breakdown of the key factors involved in establishing liability:
Texas follows a "tort liability" system, which means the injured party (you) must prove the other driver's negligence caused your accident. Negligence essentially boils down to this: the other driver owed you a duty of care, breached that duty, and their breach directly caused your car accident and injuries.
For example, a driver who runs a red light at a busy Houston intersection like Kirby and Westheimer clearly breaches their duty of care to other drivers, potentially causing an accident and injuries.
Building a strong case hinges on collecting evidence from the scene of the accident. This might include:
After being involved in a car crash in Houston, you may feel overwhelmed and unsure of how to proceed, especially when it comes to dealing with insurance companies. It's important to remember that insurance adjusters are not on your side – their primary goal is to minimize the amount they have to pay out in claims.
At The Edwards Law Firm, our car accident attorneys have extensive experience negotiating with insurance companies on behalf of our clients. We understand their tactics and won't let them take advantage of you during this difficult time.
Here are some tips for dealing with insurance after a Houston car accident:
Being involved in a car accident can be a frightening and overwhelming experience. These are some essential steps to take if you're ever in a car accident in Houston:
The aftermath of a Houston car accident can be devastating. You're likely dealing with physical injuries, emotional trauma, mounting medical bills, and lost wages. If the accident wasn't your fault, Texas law allows you to seek compensation for these damages from the at-fault driver's insurance company. Understanding what kind of damages you can recover can be crucial in getting the fair compensation you deserve.
Economic damages are the financial losses you experience directly due to the car accident. These damages are typically easier to calculate and document since they involve concrete expenses. Here are some common economic damages recoverable in a Houston car accident case:
Non-economic damages are meant to compensate you for the pain and suffering, emotional distress, and loss of enjoyment of life caused by the accident. These damages are more subjective and can be harder to quantify since they don't involve a specific dollar amount. However, they are a vital part of receiving fair compensation for the full impact of the accident on your life.
Here are some examples of non-economic damages:
In rare cases, a car accident lawsuit may result in punitive damages. These damages are not meant to compensate you for your losses, but rather to punish the at-fault driver for their egregious behavior. Punitive damages are typically awarded in cases where the driver acted with gross negligence or reckless disregard for the safety of others (e.g., driving under the influence or drag racing).
Texas follows a comparative negligence system. This means that the amount of compensation you receive can be reduced by your percentage of fault for the accident. For instance, if you're found 20% at fault for the accident and your total damages are $100,000, you would receive $80,000. It's crucial to have an experienced car accident attorney on your side to fight for a fair assessment of fault and maximize your compensation.
If you've been injured in a car accident in Houston, The Edwards Law Firm is here for you. We have a proven track record of success in recovering fair compensation for victims of car accidents throughout Houston, from head-on collisions on I-10 to rollovers on the Beltway. Our experienced car accident lawyers will:
We offer a free consultation, so you can discuss your case with a Houston personal injury attorney at no upfront cost. Don't settle for less than you deserve.
Houston's sprawling highways and busy city streets can be a recipe for car accidents. If you've been involved in a car crash in Houston, TX, the aftermath can be incredibly stressful. Medical bills can quickly accumulate, injuries might prevent you from working, and dealing with insurance companies can feel like an uphill battle. This is where a Houston auto accident attorney from The Edwards Law Firm can make a significant difference.
Car accident claims can be surprisingly complex, especially in a city like Houston. Here's why having our auto accident lawyers on your side is crucial:
Serious car accidents can result in life-altering injuries, including broken bones, whiplash, traumatic brain injuries (TBIs), and spinal cord damage. The financial burden of these injuries can be immense, with medical bills, lost wages, and rehabilitation costs quickly adding up. Here's how a Houston car accident lawyer can help:
In Texas, there is a statute of limitations that dictates the time frame within which a car accident lawsuit must be filed. For most personal injury cases, including car accidents, the statute of limitations is two years from the date of the accident or injury.
It's crucial to be aware of this deadline and take action promptly after a car accident. If you fail to file your lawsuit within the two-year window, you may be barred from seeking compensation altogether, regardless of the merits of your case.
At The Edwards Law Firm, our Houston car accident attorneys understand the importance of adhering to the statute of limitations and will ensure that your claim is filed in a timely manner. We will work diligently to gather all necessary evidence, build a strong case, and initiate legal proceedings within the prescribed time frame.
While two years may seem like ample time, it's advisable to consult with a qualified Houston auto accident lawyer as soon as possible after your accident. This will allow your legal team to begin investigating and building your case immediately, increasing the chances of a successful outcome.
Texas Uses Comparative Negligence – What Does That Mean for My Case?
Unlike some states, Texas follows a "comparative negligence" system. This means the court assigns a percentage of fault to each party involved in the accident. So, if you're partially at fault for the crash, your compensation might be reduced. Let's say the court finds you 20% at fault and awards you $100,000 in damages. You'd receive $80,000 (your total damages minus 20%). An experienced Houston auto accident lawyer can help determine the fault percentage based on evidence like the accident scene, police reports, and witness statements.
Shared Liability with Another Driver and a City-Maintained Road Defect – How's Fault Determined?
Houston accidents can get even trickier when multiple parties might be responsible. Imagine a scenario where another driver caused the crash, but a pothole on a poorly maintained city road also contributed. Here, fault could be shared between the driver and the city. Proving the city's negligence involves demonstrating they knew about the pothole and failed to fix it within a reasonable timeframe. The Edwards Law Firm's Houston car accident attorneys can navigate these complex situations and fight for compensation from all liable parties.
Uninsured/Underinsured Motorist Coverage – Am I Covered if the Other Driver Doesn't Have Insurance?
Texas law doesn't mandate uninsured/underinsured motorist (UM/UIM) coverage, but it's highly recommended, especially in a city like Houston with a high volume of traffic. UM/UIM coverage kicks in if the at-fault driver has no insurance or not enough to cover your damages. Understanding your own policy's UM/UIM limits is crucial. An experienced Houston auto accident attorney can review your policy and advise you on pursuing compensation through your UM/UIM coverage.
Medical Bills Piling Up – When Should I Settle My Car Accident Case?
Medical expenses post-accident can be a significant financial burden. While a quick settlement might seem tempting, it's essential to consider the full extent of your injuries. Settling too early could leave you financially responsible for future medical needs arising from the accident. The Edwards Law Firm's Houston car accident attorneys can advise you on a settlement strategy considering your medical prognosis and potential long-term costs.
Statute of Limitations – How Long Do I Have to File a Car Accident Lawsuit in Texas?
In Texas, the general statute of limitations for filing a personal injury lawsuit arising from a car accident is two years from the accident date. This means you have two years to take legal action against the at-fault party. Missing this deadline could significantly harm your chances of recovering compensation. If you've been injured in a car accident in Houston, it's crucial to contact an attorney as soon as possible to ensure you don't miss this critical deadline.
Negotiating with Insurance Companies – Should I Handle It Myself?
Insurance companies are in the business of minimizing payouts. They may try to downplay the severity of your injuries or offer a settlement that falls short of covering your true expenses. Negotiating with them on your own can be stressful and disadvantageous. A Houston auto accident attorney with The Edwards Law Firm understands insurance tactics and has the experience to negotiate aggressively on your behalf, maximizing your compensation.
If you or a loved one have been injured in a car accident in Houston, it's crucial to take action and protect your rights. Contact The Edwards Law Firm today to schedule a free, no-obligation consultation with one of our experienced Houston car accident lawyers.
Our team will listen to your story, evaluate the details of your case, and provide you with clear guidance on the best path forward. Don't try to navigate the complex legal process alone – let our skilled attorneys handle the negotiations with insurance companies and fight tirelessly to secure the maximum compensation you deserve. Contact a Houston auto accident lawyer at our personal injury law firm today by calling 361-320-6752 for a no-obligation consultation. Take the first step towards justice by reaching out to The Edwards Law Firm today.