Houston Car Accident Lawyer
Have you been injured in a recent car accident in Houston, Texas? If the accident wasn’t your fault, you might be entitled to significant financial compensation. Navigating the aftermath of a car crash can be overwhelming, but you don’t have to do it alone. The experienced accidents lawyers near me at Attorney Brian White Personal Injury Lawyers are here to help you recover the compensation you deserve for your medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering.
Our Houston car accident attorneys are led by a Board Certified civil trial specialist and have a reputation for achieving outstanding results for our clients. We are dedicated to standing up against powerful insurance companies and at-fault parties to fight for your rights. We have a proven track record of success, recovering millions of dollars for accident victims and their families.
We have successfully handled a wide range of personal injury cases, including car accidents, motorcycle accidents in Houston, truck accidents in Houston, slip and fall incidents, wrongful death claims, and brain injury cases. Our results speak volumes about our commitment to our clients.
If you’re looking for an “Accidents Lawyer Near Me” in Houston, contact our conveniently located law offices today. We have seven locations across Houston for your convenience. Call us at (713) 500-5000 to schedule a free, no-obligation consultation and learn how we can help you.
How a Local Houston Accidents Lawyer Can Help After a Car Crash
How Our Houston Personal Injury Lawyers Can Help After a Car Crash
A car accident in Houston can drastically alter your life. Whether the impact is minor or major, holding the responsible party accountable is crucial. This is where a dedicated accidents lawyer near me from Attorney Brian White Personal Injury Lawyers can make all the difference.
For decades, we have been strong advocates for car accident victims and their families throughout the Houston metropolitan area.
Our founding attorney, Brian White, holds Board Certification in civil trial law, a distinction achieved by only 3% of attorneys in Texas. This specialization underscores our expertise and dedication to personal injury law.
More importantly, we have a history of winning. Our skilled legal team in Houston has secured tens of millions of dollars in settlements and verdicts for our clients. We are committed to providing each client with personalized and meticulous legal representation.
When you choose us as your “accidents lawyer near me”, you benefit from a comprehensive approach to your case, which includes:
- Thoroughly investigating the circumstances of your car accident to determine fault and gather crucial evidence.
- Building a strong and compelling legal case to maximize your potential for compensation.
- Skillfully negotiating with insurance companies to reach a fair settlement that fully covers your damages.
- If necessary, aggressively litigating your case in court to protect your rights and pursue the compensation you deserve.
If you’ve been injured due to someone else’s negligence, let our experienced Houston car accident attorneys fight for you. We are a team of lawyers with over 45 years of combined experience, ready to stand by your side when you need us most. Contact us today to schedule a free case evaluation and take the first step towards recovery.
Why Hiring an Accidents Lawyer Near Me is Essential
Why Should I Hire a Car Accident Lawyer?
Here’s why securing an “accidents lawyer near me” is not just helpful, but often crucial after a car accident:
Insurance Companies Are Not On Your Side: Insurance adjusters are trained to minimize payouts. They may offer quick, low settlements, hoping you’ll accept before understanding the true value of your claim. They understand the claims process intimately, while you likely don’t. A local accident attorney levels the playing field, protecting you from these tactics.
Increased Chances of Winning and Higher Compensation: Statistics show that individuals with legal representation are significantly more likely to win their cases and receive larger settlements. Hiring an “accidents lawyer near me” dramatically improves your odds of a successful outcome.
Protection Against Blame-Shifting: At-fault drivers and their insurance companies often try to deflect blame onto the victim. An attorney acts as your shield, preventing these tactics from undermining your claim and protecting you from unfair accusations.
Independent Investigation to Uncover the Truth: Insurance companies conduct investigations, but their focus is on protecting their bottom line, not necessarily on uncovering the full truth. Your own accidents lawyer near me will conduct an independent investigation to gather evidence that supports your case and ensures all facts are considered.
Negotiating Power to Resist Settlement Pressure: Insurance adjusters are skilled negotiators whose goal is to settle your claim for as little as possible. They may use pressure tactics and delays to wear you down. Your attorney will handle all communication, protecting you from these pressures and ensuring you don’t settle for less than you deserve.
You are entitled to compensation if another party’s negligence caused your injuries. The reality is, hiring a Houston, Texas accidents lawyer near you is a powerful step towards making that compensation a reality.
Understanding the Cost of Hiring an Accidents Lawyer
How Much Will It Cost to Hire a Car Accident Lawyer?
Worried about the cost of hiring an “accidents lawyer near me”? Most Houston car accident attorneys, including Attorney Brian White Personal Injury Lawyers, operate on a contingency fee basis. This means the attorney’s fee is directly linked to their success in winning your case. It’s often referred to as “no win, no fee.”
Under a contingency fee agreement, your accidents lawyer near me agrees to represent you in exchange for a percentage of the financial compensation they recover for you. This percentage typically ranges from 33% to 40% of your recovery, depending on the firm and the complexity of the case.
At Attorney Brian White Personal Injury Lawyers, we are confident in our ability to secure substantial compensation for your injuries and damages. We are so confident that we cover all upfront costs associated with investigating, negotiating, and litigating your claim. You pay absolutely nothing unless and until we win your case.
This contingency fee arrangement allows you to access the expertise of a Board Certified civil trial specialist without any financial burden upfront. Contact our Houston, Texas law offices today for a free consultation to learn more about our contingency-based legal services.
Determining the Value of Your Houston Car Accident Case
Valuing a car accident case, especially in the early stages, can be complex. Every accident and every injury is unique.
However, considering the following questions can provide insight into the potential value of your case:
- How severe are your car accident injuries?
- What is your prognosis for full recovery?
- Did the accident worsen any pre-existing conditions?
- How long will it take to reach maximum medical improvement (MMI)?
- Have you lost income due to the accident, and will your future earning capacity be affected?
- What are your out-of-pocket expenses related to the accident, including medical bills and property damage?
- What is the extent of the emotional and psychological trauma you’ve experienced?
Generally, the more serious your injuries and the greater the impact on your life, the higher the potential value of your case.
According to the National Safety Council, the average cost of a car accident with “possible” injuries was around $160,000 in 2019. For accidents resulting in “disabling” injuries, the average cost exceeded $1.2 million. These figures highlight the significant financial implications of car accidents and the importance of seeking full compensation.
The Best Time to Hire an Accidents Lawyer Near Me
It’s generally advisable to hire an “accidents lawyer near me” as soon as possible following a car accident.
Here’s why prompt action is beneficial:
- Timely Investigation is Crucial: The sooner your attorney can begin investigating, the better. Evidence can disappear, and witnesses’ memories fade. Early intervention allows your lawyer to gather critical information while it’s still fresh and accessible.
- Focus on Recovery, Not Legal Battles: Dealing with insurance claims and legal procedures while recovering from injuries adds unnecessary stress. Hiring an attorney early allows you to focus on your health and well-being, while your lawyer handles the legal complexities.
- No Added Cost for Early Engagement: Since accidents lawyers near me work on contingency, there is no financial disadvantage to hiring them early. The benefits of early legal representation far outweigh any perceived drawbacks.
At Attorney Brian White Personal Injury Lawyers, our attorneys are available 24/7 to assist you. With seven convenient office locations in Houston, we are readily accessible when you need us. Contact us today for a free consultation to understand your legal rights and options.
Contact Our Houston Accidents Lawyers for a Free Consultation
Attorney Brian White Personal Injury Lawyers offers seven convenient locations throughout Houston, TX, to serve you better. Our main office is located at 3120 Southwest Freeway, Suite 350, Houston, TX 77098. You can reach us at 713-500-5000 or fill out our online contact form to schedule your free consultation.
Should You Accept an Insurance Settlement Offer After a Houston Car Accident?
Should I Accept an Insurance Company’s Settlement Offer After an Accident?
Generally, you should only accept a settlement offer from an insurance company after it has been reviewed and ideally negotiated by a qualified accidents lawyer near me. Remember, insurance companies prioritize their profits, not your well-being.
Initial settlement offers are often lower than what your case is truly worth. Adjusters hope you’ll accept a quick payment out of financial pressure or a desire to resolve the situation quickly.
However, accepting an early settlement carries significant risks. Once you settle, you waive your right to pursue further compensation, even if you later discover the settlement is inadequate to cover your long-term needs. This can be devastating if you face ongoing medical expenses or long-term disability.
Having your accidents lawyer near me handle settlement negotiations ensures that the insurance company cannot take advantage of you. Your attorney will thoroughly investigate your case, present a strong demand letter supported by evidence and legal arguments, and advocate for a settlement that accurately reflects the full value of your claim.
Essential Steps to Take After a Car Accident in Houston
What Should I Do After a Car Accident?
Your actions immediately following a car accident are critical. Even seemingly minor missteps can jeopardize your health and financial recovery.
Here are important steps to take (and avoid) after a car crash:
- Stay at the Scene: Remain at or near the accident scene, moving to a safer location if necessary.
- Report the Accident: Call and report the accident to the Houston Police Department, especially if there are injuries, death, or significant property damage (over $1,000 as per Texas law).
- Avoid Admitting Fault: Do not apologize or accept responsibility for the accident, as even innocent-sounding statements can be used against you.
- Exchange Information: Exchange essential information with other involved parties, including names, license plate numbers, and insurance details.
- Gather Evidence: Document the scene by taking photos and videos, noting details, and collecting witness information. Capture damage to all vehicles involved.
- Seek Medical Attention Promptly: Get medical evaluation as soon as possible to diagnose and treat any injuries. Medical records are crucial for establishing the link between the accident and your injuries.
- Politely Decline Recorded Statements: Insurance adjusters may request recorded statements, seeking information to minimize or deny your claim. Provide basic information and direct further inquiries to your attorney.
Finally, and importantly, contact an experienced accidents lawyer near me who specializes in Houston car accident cases. The more experience your attorney has, the better equipped they will be to help you.
Our car accident attorneys have extensive experience handling hundreds of car accident claims and lawsuits in Houston, Texas. We understand insurance company tactics and have proven strategies to secure financial compensation for our clients.
We are ready to help you navigate this challenging time. Contact an accidents lawyer near me at our firm for a free case review and initial consultation.
Common Causes of Car Accidents in Houston
Car accidents are unfortunately frequent in Houston, Texas. Understanding the leading causes can help raise awareness and prevent future incidents.
Distracted Driving: Texting and More
Texting while driving is a leading and extremely dangerous form of distracted driving. It diverts your complete focus from the road to your phone screen.
Studies have shown that texting while driving is even more dangerous than drunk driving, making drivers six times more likely to be involved in an accident.
Distractions extend beyond texting. Other common forms of distracted driving include:
- Eating and drinking
- Talking to passengers
- Managing children in the backseat
- Reaching for objects
- Daydreaming
Any activity that takes your hands off the wheel, eyes off the road, or mind off driving is considered distracted driving.
Drunk Driving: A Persistent Threat
In 2022, Houston witnessed over 2,355 reported drunk driving car accidents, averaging to approximately 6 DUI accidents every day. These accidents are not only common but often severe, resulting in serious injuries and fatalities.
Speeding: Contributing to Houston Traffic Accidents
Houston’s traffic congestion is a well-known issue, ranking among the worst in the nation. To compensate for lost time in traffic, many drivers resort to speeding. However, speeding significantly increases the risk of accidents and their severity.
In 2022, speed was a factor in over 38,000 motor vehicle accidents in Houston and Harris County.
Other frequent causes of car accidents include:
- Failure to yield right of way
- Aggressive driving
- Inexperienced drivers
- Night driving and reduced visibility
- Hazardous road conditions
- Vehicle color (surprisingly, some colors are statistically linked to higher accident risk)
- Poor road design
- Tire blowouts
- Defective vehicle components (brakes, airbags, etc.)
A thorough investigation by your accidents lawyer near me can identify all contributing factors to your accident and help establish liability.
Texas: An At-Fault State for Auto Accidents
Is Texas a Fault or No-Fault State For Auto Accidents?
Texas operates as an “at-fault” state for car accidents. This means that in Texas, the insurance company of the driver who caused the accident is responsible for covering the damages.
In contrast, “no-fault” states require each driver to seek compensation from their own insurance, regardless of fault.
In Texas, you have the right to file a claim against the at-fault driver’s insurance to recover your damages. If your damages exceed their policy limits, you can pursue a lawsuit against the at-fault driver and potentially other liable parties.
Partial Fault in a Houston Car Accident: What to Know
What Happens If I’m Partly At Fault For My Car Accident?
Even if you are partially at fault for a car accident in Houston, you may still be eligible to recover compensation. Texas follows a modified comparative fault system with a 51% bar rule.
This rule allows you to recover damages as long as you are not more than 50% at fault for the accident. However, your compensation will be reduced proportionally to your percentage of fault. For example, if you are found to be 30% at fault, your total recoverable damages will be reduced by 30%.
If your fault exceeds 50%, you are barred from recovering any compensation from the other parties involved. Understanding comparative fault is crucial, and an accidents lawyer near me can help assess fault and protect your rights.
Proving Negligence in a Houston Car Accident Lawsuit
Do I Have to Prove Negligence If I File a Car Accident Lawsuit?
In most car accident lawsuits in Houston, proving negligence is essential to recovering compensation. Negligence, in legal terms, means that someone acted carelessly and that carelessness caused your injuries.
To establish negligence, you must prove four key elements:
- Duty of Care: The at-fault party owed you a duty to act with reasonable care (e.g., all drivers have a duty to drive safely).
- Breach of Duty: The at-fault party violated that duty of care (e.g., by speeding, driving distracted, or drunk driving).
- Causation: The breach of duty directly caused your car accident and resulting injuries.
- Damages: You suffered actual damages as a result of the accident (e.g., medical expenses, lost income, pain and suffering).
In Texas, you must prove these elements by a “preponderance of the evidence,” meaning it is more likely than not that negligence occurred. Your accidents lawyer near me will gather evidence and build a strong case to demonstrate negligence and meet this burden of proof.
Time Limit for Filing a Car Accident Lawsuit in Houston
How Long Do I Have to File a Lawsuit After a Traffic Accident?
The statute of limitations in Texas sets a two-year deadline for filing most car accident lawsuits. This means you generally have two years from the date of the accident to file a lawsuit seeking damages.
Failing to file within this timeframe typically means you lose your legal right to sue for compensation.
There are limited exceptions where the statute of limitations may be different. For example, claims against government entities often have much shorter deadlines. It’s crucial to consult with an accidents lawyer near me as soon as possible to understand the specific deadlines that apply to your case and ensure you don’t miss critical filing dates.
Types of Damages You Can Recover After a Houston Car Accident
If you’ve been injured in a Houston car accident, you may be entitled to recover compensatory damages, which are designed to compensate you for your losses. These damages are typically categorized as economic and non-economic damages.
Economic Damages: Quantifiable Financial Losses
What Are Economic Damages?
Economic damages are intended to cover the direct financial costs you incur due to the car accident. These are tangible losses that can be documented and calculated, such as:
- Medical expenses (hospital bills, doctor visits, therapy, medications, medical devices)
- Property damage (vehicle repair or replacement costs)
- Lost income (current and future lost wages and benefits)
- Reduced earning capacity
- Costs of necessary home modifications due to injuries
- Ongoing care costs (nursing care, in-home assistance)
- Funeral and burial expenses in wrongful death cases
Non-Economic Damages: Intangible Losses
What Are Non-Economic Awards?
Non-economic damages address the more subjective, intangible losses resulting from a car accident. These damages are more difficult to quantify financially but are equally valid and important, including:
- Pain and suffering (physical pain and discomfort)
- Mental anguish and emotional distress (anxiety, depression, PTSD)
- Disfigurement and scarring
- Loss of enjoyment of life
- Loss of consortium (loss of companionship and intimacy with a spouse)
- Inconvenience and disruption to your life
These non-economic damages recognize the profound personal impact of car accident injuries beyond just financial costs. Your accidents lawyer near me will help you understand and pursue both types of damages.
Valuing Pain and Suffering Damages in Texas
Determining the monetary value of pain and suffering is challenging because these damages are inherently subjective. However, Texas courts and insurance companies use methods to estimate these losses.
Two common methods for valuing non-economic damages are:
- Multiplier Method: This method assigns a multiplier (typically 1 to 5, based on injury severity) to your economic damages. The multiplier reflects the level of pain and suffering. Economic damages are then multiplied by this factor to calculate non-economic damages.
- Per Diem Method: This method assigns a daily dollar value to your pain and suffering and multiplies it by the number of days you experience pain and suffering, often until you reach maximum medical improvement.
The multiplier method is more frequently used. For example, a severe injury like a spinal cord injury with significant life impact might receive a higher multiplier, resulting in substantial non-economic damages. Your accidents lawyer near me will advocate for the method that best reflects your specific circumstances.
Punitive Damages: When Punishment is Warranted
Are Punitive Damages Ever Awarded in Car Accident Cases?
Punitive damages are awarded rarely in car accident cases and are intended to punish the at-fault party for egregious misconduct, rather than simply compensate the victim.
In Texas, punitive damages may be considered in cases involving:
- Drunk driving accidents
- Fatal hit-and-run accidents
- Intentional or malicious actions that caused the accident
Punitive damages are not awarded in typical negligence cases. They require demonstrating that the at-fault party’s conduct was grossly negligent or intentionally harmful.
How the Type of Car Accident Impacts Your Case
The specific type of car accident you were involved in can significantly affect the complexities of your case and the legal strategies employed. Different accident types present unique challenges in terms of investigation, liability determination, and injury patterns.
At Attorney Brian White Personal Injury Lawyers, we have extensive experience handling all types of car accident cases, including:
Rollover Accidents
SUVs and other vehicles with a high center of gravity are more susceptible to rollovers, which often result in severe injuries like head trauma and internal injuries. A Houston SUV Rollover Accident Lawyer can help you navigate these complex cases.
Rear-End Collisions
Rear-end accidents are very common. While sometimes minor, they can cause whiplash and other injuries. A Houston Rear-End Collision Lawyer can help you secure fair compensation, even in seemingly straightforward rear-end accident cases.
Fatal Car Accidents
Losing a loved one in a car accident is devastating. A Houston Fatal Car Accident Lawyer can assist families with wrongful death claims to seek justice and financial support to cover final expenses and loss of support.
Head-On Collisions
Head-on crashes are often catastrophic, leading to severe injuries and fatalities. A Houston Head-On Crashes Lawyer has the experience to handle these complex and high-stakes cases.
Whiplash Injury Accidents
Whiplash is a common injury in car accidents, particularly rear-end and side-impact collisions. A Houston Whiplash Injury Lawyer can help you get proper medical care and compensation for whiplash injuries, which can have long-term effects.
Single-Vehicle Accidents
Even in single-vehicle accidents, you may have grounds for a claim if road defects, vehicle malfunctions, or the negligence of another party contributed to the crash. A Houston Single Vehicle Car Accidents Lawyer can investigate these less obvious causes of accidents.
Accidents Caused by Road Defects
Dangerous road conditions, such as potholes, inadequate signage, or improper road maintenance, can cause accidents. A Houston Road Defects Accidents Lawyer can help you pursue claims against responsible government entities for accidents caused by road hazards.
Since 2007, our firm has been dedicated to assisting car accident victims in Houston. We have the knowledge and resources to effectively handle any type of car accident case. Contact us to discuss your specific situation and learn how we can help.
Houston Accidents Lawyers You Can Rely On
Choosing the right attorney is a critical decision after a car accident. You need an attorney with a proven track record of success, extensive experience in car accident law, and a genuine commitment to your well-being.
Attorney Brian White Personal Injury Lawyers is a trusted choice for accident victims in Houston. We understand the challenges you face and are dedicated to providing compassionate and effective legal representation.
We are available 24/7/365 to provide immediate assistance. Consultations are always free and can be arranged at your convenience, whether at our office, your home, or even the hospital.
Contact us today to experience the difference of having a dedicated and experienced accidents lawyer near me on your side. Your first consultation is free, and we work on a contingency fee basis – you pay nothing unless we win your case.
What Our Clients Say About Our Houston Attorneys
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Clint was my trial attorney. Before the trial and throughout the process he was attentive and communicated with detail all I needed to do and expect throughout the process. My settlement was more than expected. I would most definitely recommend this law firm to my family and friends! They will take great care of you!
I’m grateful for them!!
Krys S. – February 2022
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Areas We Serve in Houston, TX
Northside, Independence Heights, Central Northwest, Greater Fifth Ward, East Downtown, Central Business District, South Central Houston, Greater OST/South Union, Southwest Houston, Spring Branch East, The Memorial Villages, Briarforest, Chinatown, Mission Bend, Energy Corridor, Northwest Houston, Acres Homes, Aldine, East Aldine, East Houston, Jacinto City, Galeana Park, Deer Park, Southeast Houston, South Park, Greater Hobby Area, Hyde Park, Fourth Ward, Rice Military, Bellaire, South Main, Second Ward, Magnolia Park, Pearland, Friendswood, League City, Dickinson, La Marque, Texas City, Humble, Shady Acres, Jersey Village, Pasadena.
Local Auto Repair Shops
- Dent Dogs Inc – 3900 Southwest Fwy, Houston, TX 77056
- JJ Auto Body – 340 Erin St, Houston, TX 77009
- Brookston Body Shop – 1330 N Durham Dr, Houston, TX 77008
- Dent Sharks – 5090 Richmond Ave Ste 179, Houston, TX 77056
- Ryan Automotive Glass & Collision Center – 716 Fairview St – Houston, TX 77006
*Disclaimer – we do not endorse these companies or profit from having them listed on our website.
