You are driving down Houston’s open roads when suddenly, the unexpected happens – a car accident. Questions flood your mind, but one stands out: How much compensation can you seek after a car accident in Texas? Texas has no statutory limits on economic damages recoverable through a lawsuit following a car accident. This particular article unravels the complex legal intricacies and potential remedies for car accident cases in Houston.
Liability Insurance
Insurance is a fundamental factor in determining your compensation after a car collision. Texas law sets the baseline for insurance coverage. Each motorist must adhere to these minimums:
● $30,000 of coverage for injuries per person
● A total of $60,000 for injuries per accident
● $25,000 of coverage for property damage
For multi-vehicle accidents, these minimum liability coverage limits might fall short of covering all damages and injuries.
What If the At-Fault Driver is Uninsured?
If the at-fault driver lacks insurance, you may opt for a personal injury lawsuit, but the chances of recovering compensation from an uninsured driver are slim. However, here is where “uninsured motorist coverage” steps in as your safety net.
Insurance companies are required to offer it, which can prevent you from bearing the brunt of medical bills and vehicle repair costs.
Can an At-Fault Driver Sue?
Texas follows a modified comparative fault system. This means you can still pursue compensation if you are less than 51% at fault for the accident. However, once your fault exceeds 50%, your hopes of recovering damages are dashed. You will not be able to recover damages from the other party. If you share fault, the amount you can recover diminishes in proportion to your degree of responsibility.
What Determines How Much You Can Sue For?
Many factors influence the compensation you can seek. The seriousness of your injuries plays a pivotal role. They significantly impact the potential compensation you can seek.
Other factors include:
● Whether your injuries are permanent
● The duration of the injury’s impact
● How your injuries affect your earning capacity
● The impact on your quality of life
● The anticipated costs of medical treatment
Additionally, financial costs stemming from injuries, property damage, and pain and suffering shape the compensation you can pursue. It is a complex equation where various elements interconnect.
How Your Case’s Value is Calculated
Calculating your case’s value is akin to assembling a puzzle. After you enlist a personal injury lawyer, they conduct a thorough investigation. They review your medical records and forecast the future costs of your injuries over your lifetime. The value of your car accident case is determined by a careful analysis of your current and future damages. Here are the damages your leading Houston car accident lawyer can pursue on your behalf:
● Medical treatment
● Future medical care
● Lost income
● Reduced earning capacity
● Disability
● Property damage
● Pain and suffering
● Emotional distress
● Loss of enjoyment of life
● Loss of consortium
● Wrongful death
These categories encompass the scope of what you can potentially recover.
How to Increase the Value of a Car Accident Case
To bolster your case, several steps are essential:
● Seek immediate medical attention
● Document the accident scene with photos and videos
● Take your own notes about the accident promptly
● Gather contact information for witnesses.
● Consult an experienced personal injury lawyer
● Complete medical or psychological treatments and retain your medical bills
Remember, what you say following a car accident can be used against you. Also, proper documentation and legal counsel are vital in building a strong car accident case.
So avoid admitting fault and consult a personal injury attorney before speaking to an insurance company.
How Can a Car Accident Attorney Help With Your Claim?
Navigating the complexities of insurance companies can be daunting. Hiring a car accident attorney can protect you from potential blame and low settlement offers. They are your advocates, striving to secure a fair settlement or representing you in court if necessary. A skilled car accident attorney is your best ally when dealing with insurance companies and seeking fair compensation.
If you recently suffered an injury due to another driver’s negligence, contacting a Houston car accident lawyer is wise. Lawyers are a trusted resource for legal guidance and support. They can provide the expertise you need to navigate the complexities of car accident claims.
In the end, when it comes to seeking compensation after a car accident in Texas, knowledge is your greatest asset. Armed with this information and the support of a skilled attorney, you can navigate the legal landscape and pursue the compensation you deserve.
