Houston Car Accident Lawyer

Houston, the largest city in Texas, experiences its fair share of motor vehicle accidents. If you've been injured or lost a loved one in a car accident caused by someone else in Houston, it's crucial to seek the expertise of a Houston car accident lawyer to explore your rights and avenues for seeking compensation.

Navigating Legal Complexities: Houston's Premier Car Accident Attorneys

The personal injury attorneys at Trust Guss Injury Lawyers have extensive experience helping people with car accident injury claims in Houston and the surrounding areas. We understand how stressful this time can be, so our Houston car accident attorneys are committed to handling the legal aspects while you focus on recovering.

With over 20 years of experience, Trust Guss Injury Lawyers is the trusted choice for handling everything from minor collisions to major pileups. During this challenging time, you and your loved ones deserve the support of top Texas car accident lawyers.

Our car accident lawyers can schedule a meeting to explain your legal options and answer your questions. We offer FREE consultations 24/7, so don't hesitate to learn about your rights. Contact a Houston car accident lawyer near you now. There's no obligation when you seek help from our law firm.

The Official Injury Lawyers of University of Houston Athletics

Stewart J. Guss, Injury Lawyers, is honored to announce our collaboration with the University of Houston Athletics as their Official Personal Injury Law Firm.

Our commitment to the Houston community is paramount, and we are proud to stand behind the Coogs.

Trust Guss and Go Coogs!

I’ve Been Involved in a Car Accident: What Should I Know?

What Are the Most Common Types of Car Crash Injuries?

Car accidents can lead to various injuries, ranging from minor to severe. Some of the most common types of car crash injuries include:

• Whiplash: This injury occurs when the head and neck are suddenly jerked forward and then backward, causing strain on the neck muscles and ligaments. Symptoms may include neck pain, stiffness, and headaches.
• Fractures: Car accidents can cause broken bones, particularly in the arms, legs, and ribs. The impact of the collision can exert significant force on the body, leading to fractures in vulnerable areas.
• Head Injuries: Traumatic brain injuries (TBI) can result from car accidents, often due to the head striking an object or being jolted forcefully. Symptoms can range from mild concussions to severe brain damage.
• Back Injuries: The force of a car crash can cause spinal cord injuries, herniated discs, and other back-related issues. These injuries can lead to chronic pain and mobility limitations.
• Soft Tissue Injuries: Car accidents can damage muscles, tendons, and ligaments, leading to strains, sprains, and bruising. These injuries can cause lingering discomfort and reduced mobility.

It's essential to seek medical attention after a car accident, even if injuries initially seem minor. Some injuries may not present symptoms immediately, and early intervention can prevent further complications.

Most Common Causes of Car Accidents in Houston

Some of the most common causes of car accidents in Houston include the following:

• Distracted driving with activities like texting, talking on the phone, or even eating while driving
• Exceeding the speed limit or driving too fast for road conditions
• Driving under the influence of alcohol or drug
• Reckless driving behaviors such as weaving in and out of traffic, tailgating, and running red lights
• Houston's unpredictable weather conditions, including heavy rain and fog
• Failure to yield the right of way at intersections or while merging
• Driver fatigue can impair judgment and reaction time

Is My Settlement Affected by the Type of Accident I’m In?

The type of car accident you're involved in can indeed impact your settlement. Different types of car accidents can result in varying degrees of injury and property damage, affecting the compensation you may be entitled to. Factors such as the collision's severity, the extent of your injuries, and the degree of fault attributed to each party involved can all play a role in determining the settlement amount.

For instance, a rear-end collision may commonly result in whiplash injuries, while a T-bone collision could lead to more serious injuries due to the side impact. Additionally, if the accident was caused by a driver who was clearly at fault, it may strengthen your case for a higher settlement.

What Should I Do After a Car Accident?

After a car accident in Houston, specific actions must be taken to ensure safety and protect the legal interests and well-being for everyone involved. Here's a general guide on what to do:

• Stay Calm: Take a deep breath to stay composed, which will help you think clearly and handle the situation effectively.
• Check for Injuries: Assess yourself and others for injuries. Call for medical assistance immediately if anyone is injured by dialing emergency services.
• Move to a Safe Location: If possible and without causing further harm, move your vehicle to a safe location, such as the shoulder of the road, to prevent additional accidents.
• Call the Police and Report the Accident: Texas law requires reporting any vehicle accident resulting in injuries, death, or property damage exceeding $1,000. Even for minor accidents, calling the police is important for insurance claims and legal purposes.
• Exchange Information: Share names, addresses, phone numbers, insurance details, and vehicle information with the other parties involved. Note the make, model, and license plate number of each vehicle.
• Document the Scene: Use a phone or camera to take pictures of the accident scene, vehicle damage, license plates, and relevant road signs or signals for future reference.
• Obtain Witness Information: Gather their names and contact details if there are witnesses, as their statements could be valuable in determining fault.
• Do Not Admit Fault: Avoid admitting fault or making statements that could be seen as an admission of fault when discussing the accident with others, the police, or insurance representatives.
• Notify Your Insurance Company: Report the accident to your insurance company promptly, providing the necessary information and following their instructions for filing a claim.
• Seek Medical Attention: Even if you don't believe you're seriously injured, seeking medical attention to document any potential injuries sustained in the accident is advisable.
• Keep Records: Maintain all records related to the accident, including medical bills, repair estimates, and communication with insurance companies, as these documents could be crucial for legal or insurance claims.
• Consult an Attorney: After seeking treatment for injuries, it is essential to contact an experienced Houston car accident attorney. They can offer guidance tailored to your situation and help protect your rights.

Remember, the specific steps may vary depending on your location, local laws, and the accident's severity. Always prioritize safety and heed the advice of law enforcement and medical professionals. When in doubt, seek guidance from the legal professionals at Trust Guss Injury Lawyers.

When Should I Hire a Houston Car Accident Lawyer?

Even if you've taken all the necessary steps following your car accident in Houston, you will likely have many questions. Some may need immediate answers, while others may come up in the days and weeks following the incident.

If you're considering whether to contact a Houston car accident law firm, think about the following issues:

• Injuries or Fatalities: If you or a loved one has been injured or didn't survive the crash, it's important to seek medical and legal help right away to understand the full impact of these losses.
• Vehicle Damage: If your vehicle has been damaged or totaled in the accident, it's crucial to seek full compensation from the responsible party's insurance company to avoid paying for repairs or replacement yourself.
• Involvement of Houston Police: Law enforcement officers can be crucial in identifying violations and issuing citations, which can help prove fault for future insurance claims. Getting a copy of the police report is very helpful.
• Medical and Insurance Costs: Even if you have relatively minor medical bills or out-of-pocket expenses, you can recover payment for those costs. Understanding your rights and seeking legal advice is important to ensure you receive fair compensation.
• Legal Rights and Responsibilities of Drivers: Understanding the legal rights and responsibilities of all drivers involved in the crash is essential in determining liability and filing insurance claims.
• Expected Settlement: The amount of your settlement payment will depend on various factors, including the severity of your injuries, medical expenses, ongoing medical care needs, lost income, potential future impairments, and pain and suffering.

Why Our Houston Car Accident Attorneys Are Your Best Choice

Dealing with a car accident in Houston can be tough. Unfortunately, insurance companies often prioritize minimizing payouts over meeting your needs. That's why having someone on your side who genuinely cares about your best interests is crucial.

The Houston car accident attorneys at Trust Guss Injury Lawyers have extensive experience handling car accident claims and have secured millions of dollars in settlements and verdicts for our injured clients.

After a car wreck in Houston, you may not fully understand your rights and options. A lawyer from our firm will sit down with you to explain what you're entitled to and how to seek compensation. We'll also work hard to gather vital evidence to hold the at-fault driver accountable and advocate for you if the insurance company tries to deny or undervalue your claim or shift blame onto you for the accident.

If you're uninsured or can't afford health insurance deductibles or co-pays, we may be able to help you get the necessary medical treatment without any upfront out-of-pocket costs.

Contact Trust Guss Injury Lawyers today to find out how we can assist you after a serious car accident in Houston.

How Much Does a Houston Car Accident Lawyer Charge?

Many car accident victims hesitate to contact a personal injury lawyer because they worry about the costs.

Our Houston auto accident attorneys don't charge high hourly fees like those seen on TV shows or movies. We understand that as a car accident victim, you should be receiving money, not paying it out.

To address this concern, we handle car accident cases on a contingency fee basis. This means that our Houston car accident attorneys only get paid when they successfully collect money from winning your case.

Once we secure a favorable settlement or verdict, you will pay our firm a percentage of the money obtained on your behalf. This approach allows all injured car accident victims to seek justice regardless of their financial situation.

Contingency fees can vary among lawyers, and we are available to discuss our fees when you contact us to schedule your FREE consultation and case review.

Under a contingent fee arrangement:

• You pay NOTHING for a consultation
• If you hire us, we will cover all costs upfront
• We charge no fees unless we successfully recover compensation for you
• Our payment comes from your settlement, NOT your pocket

You never need extra money to hire our car accident attorneys. This means that EVERYONE can afford to hire the best lawyer for their car accident claim.

How Much Is My Houston Car Accident Claim Worth?

Many people come to our law firm with a common question: "How much can I expect from my car accident settlement?" Answering this question is always difficult because it depends on your unique circumstances.

Most people don't know the value of their claim until they have a thorough evaluation by an experienced Houston car accident lawyer.

What we do know is the high cost of medical care in the U.S., regardless of the severity of the injuries. Consider the following average costs for medical treatments related to car accident injuries:

• An ambulance ride: Approximately $1,000.
• Emergency room visits: Usually ranging from $1,000 to $20,000, depending on the services.
• Hospital stays: Around $2,750 per night or more.
• Surgeries: Costing tens of thousands of dollars.
• Physical therapy: Up to $350 per session.

Some injuries require additional care, including:

• Time in the intensive care unit (ICU)
• Home health care
• Assisted Living
• Medical equipment

Each client we help will have different costs and losses. Whether your losses amount to $1,000 or $1 million, you are entitled to compensation from the at-fault party.

You shouldn't have to bear the financial burden if someone else is responsible for your accident. Contact us today for a complimentary personalized evaluation.

How Much Can I Recover for Pain and Suffering in a Houston Car Accident?

Compensation for pain and suffering in a Houston car accident can vary widely and depend on various factors. Pain and suffering damages are considered non-economic damages, which means they are more subjective and don't have a specific monetary value.

Several factors can affect the potential amount you may receive:

• Severity of Injuries: The extent and seriousness of your injuries are crucial in determining the compensation for pain and suffering. More severe injuries that result in long-term or permanent disabilities typically lead to higher compensation.
• Medical Expenses: Past and future medical expenses are considered when calculating pain and suffering damages. Higher medical costs may be linked to more substantial pain and suffering compensation.
• Impact on Daily Life: How your injuries affect your daily activities, such as work, hobbies, and relationships, can affect compensation for pain and suffering.
• Duration of Recovery: The length of your recovery period can impact the calculation. A prolonged recovery or permanent impairments may result in higher compensation.
• Emotional Distress: Emotional distress, including anxiety, depression, or post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), can contribute to pain and suffering damages.
• Effect on Quality of Life: The overall impact of the accident on your quality of life, including both physical and emotional well-being, is considered.
• Insurance Policy Limits: The at-fault party's insurance policy limits can also affect the potential recovery amount. Limited insurance coverage may restrict the available compensation.
• Legal Representation: Having a skilled personal injury attorney can also impact the outcome. A proficient lawyer can advocate on your behalf and present a compelling case, potentially leading to a higher settlement.

What Other Forms of Compensation Can I Receive After a Car Accident?

In addition to covering medical expenses and pain and suffering, you may be entitled to various forms of compensation following a Houston car accident for which you are not at fault. These may include:

• Property Damage: Money to repair or replace your damaged vehicle and any other property affected in the accident.
• Lost Wages: Reimbursement for income lost during your recovery period and potential future earnings if your ability to work is impacted by the accident.
• Emotional Distress: Compensation for psychological effects such as anxiety, depression, or post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) resulting from the accident.
• Loss of Consortium: Compensation for the impact of your injuries on your relationships with your spouse or family members, covering the loss of companionship, affection, and support.
• Wrongful Death Damages: If a loved one passes away due to the car accident, surviving family members may be entitled to compensation for funeral expenses, loss of financial support, and other damages through a wrongful death claim.
• Punitive Damages: In rare cases involving particularly egregious or malicious actions by the at-fault party, punitive damages may be awarded by the court to punish the wrongdoer and deter similar behavior in the future.
• Rehabilitation and Disability: Money for ongoing care or rehabilitation expenses if the accident results in long-term or permanent injuries.

What Makes a Strong Car Accident Injury Claim?

Many factors play a role in determining the strength of your Houston car accident claim:

Clear liability

Cases with clear liability tend to be stronger, as the absence of shared fault can support your claim.

Significant property damage

Extensive damage to your vehicle can make the accident seem more severe, potentially increasing your chances of getting maximum compensation.

Immediate medical treatment

Seeking prompt medical attention can strengthen your case, as it shows the seriousness of your injuries and their direct connection to the accident.

Consistent medical treatment

Following your doctor's treatment plan and attending all therapy sessions can strengthen your case by demonstrating your commitment to recovery.

Serious or permanent injury

Suffering a serious or permanent injury makes insurance companies take your case more seriously. They emphasize the importance of reaching maximum medical improvement before considering any settlement offer.

Evidence

Substantial evidence, such as eyewitness statements, toxicology reports, and police reports, can significantly support your case and improve the likelihood of a successful outcome with the help of your Houston car accident attorney.

Why Should You Partner with Our Houston Auto Accident Lawyers?

For expert help in protecting your rights against insurance companies and their questionable tactics, you can count on our experienced legal team. Our Houston personal injury attorneys are ready to support you at every step of your case, from starting an insurance claim to reaching a final resolution.

The Insurance Process

As mentioned, insurance adjusters try to reduce payments to car accident victims in Houston. Even though the at-fault driver’s insurance company adjuster may claim to be on your side, it's crucial to understand that they are NOT.

Having a determined car accident law firm handling your insurance claim is essential. This includes dealing with adjusters, evaluating offers, and seeking higher settlement offers whenever possible.

Filing Your Claim

The insurance process starts when you file a claim to seek compensation for your losses. Before filing a Houston car accident claim, it's crucial to understand the full extent of your losses, including past and future medical expenses, past and future lost income, pain and suffering, and more.

Many people underestimate their damages and end up receiving much less than they deserve.

Our law firm is dedicated to making sure that you ask for EVERY DOLLAR of your losses and receive the full amount you need and deserve.

Additionally, our experienced car crash attorneys have the skills to present substantial evidence supporting your claim.

Handling Adjusters

After filing an auto accident claim in Houston, an adjuster will reach out to you. While the adjuster may seem understanding and claim to be there to help you, it's important to remember that their loyalty is to the insurance company and NOT to you. The adjuster may ask for a recorded statement from you and insist that getting a settlement is necessary.

This is not true. In third-party claims, insurance companies do not have the right to demand a recorded statement from you unless a lawsuit is in progress.

Giving a recorded statement to the other party’s insurance adjuster can be a big mistake. While you can provide basic information like your name and contact details, it's best to politely refuse to give a recorded statement and let our team handle ALL communications with the insurance company from now on.

Reviewing Settlement Offers

Finally, the insurance adjuster makes a settlement offer, a moment you eagerly await. However, hastily accepting the initial settlement offer in pursuit of quick money is often a serious mistake.

Insurers aim to minimize payouts to strengthen their own financial standing. As a result, they often encourage injured claimants to accept a lowball offer right from the start.

Individuals usually give up the right to seek additional compensation by accepting an offer, regardless of the settlement's inadequacy!

It's always wise to have an experienced car accident lawyer review any insurance company offers before accepting anything.

Our Houston car accident lawyers will carefully review any offer and advise you on its fairness (which is typically not the case). Then, we can negotiate with the car insurance company to persuade them to make a higher offer that adequately covers your losses.

Insurance companies know our law firm is determined and steadfast, and we will not back down. This often puts us in a position of strength during negotiations, allowing us to resolve many cases during the claims negotiation process.

While personal injury law and the claims process should be straightforward and legal representation should be unnecessary, it's essential to recognize that these companies often try to take advantage of unrepresented claimants.

Their approach often changes quickly once they find out that an attorney represents you. We will advocate for you at every stage of your claim and will only collect attorney fees if we secure compensation for you.

Should I Accept a Settlement From the Insurance Company?

The pros and cons of accepting a settlement from the insurance company must be carefully considered when deciding whether to accept it.

Pros of Accepting a Settlement

Accepting a settlement can resolve your claim quicker, allowing you to receive compensation sooner rather than later. By accepting a settlement, you can avoid the potential stress and uncertainty of a lengthy legal battle.

Cons of Accepting a Settlement

The initial settlement offer may not fully cover the extent of your damages, including medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering. If you accept a settlement without considering potential future costs related to your injuries, you may miss out on compensation for ongoing medical treatment or long-term effects.

Factors to Consider

Seeking legal advice from an experienced attorney can help you understand the fairness of the settlement offer and whether it adequately addresses your needs. It's vital to assess the full extent of your damages, including current and future expenses, before deciding on a settlement.

Is Texas a No-Fault state?

In Texas, car insurance is based on fault, meaning the driver who causes an accident is accountable for the resulting costs.

On the other hand, in no-fault insurance states, drivers are usually required to have personal injury protection (PIP) coverage. This coverage is designed to pay for their medical expenses and accident-related damages, no matter who is at fault.

While drivers in no-fault states can often get compensation from their own insurance company, PIP coverage may not cover all types of damages. Also, in these states, filing claims against the responsible drivers is only possible in certain situations.

In Texas, an at-fault insurance state, the driver at fault is responsible for the accident damages. To get compensation, you'd file a claim with the at-fault driver's insurance provider instead of your own. This means you might need to prove who was at fault if you're in a car accident in Texas.

What Is the Statute of Limitations For a Car Accident in Texas?

In Texas, the statute of limitations for filing a car accident lawsuit is an essential factor to consider. This legal time limit sets the deadline for taking legal action after a car accident. It's crucial to be aware of this timeframe, as failing to file a lawsuit within the statute of limitations can result in losing your right to seek compensation for your injuries and damages.

The statute of limitations for car accidents in Texas is generally two years from the accident date. This means you have a two-year window to file a lawsuit in the Texas civil court system. It's important to note that this time limit applies to most car accident cases, so it's essential to take prompt action and seek legal advice if you're considering filing a lawsuit.

Do I Need to Hire a Lawyer For a Minor Accident?

If you've been involved in a minor car accident, you may wonder whether hiring a lawyer is necessary. Here’s what you need to know:

• While it's not a legal requirement, consulting with a lawyer can provide valuable guidance and support, even for minor accidents
• A lawyer can help you navigate the insurance claims process, assess the extent of your damages, and ensure that you receive fair compensation for any injuries or property damage
• Additionally, if the other party disputes liability or if there are concerns about pre-existing injuries, having legal representation can be beneficial in protecting your rights and ensuring a favorable outcome

Even in minor car accidents, the aftermath can be complex, and insurance companies may offer settlements that don't fully cover your losses. A lawyer can advocate on your behalf and negotiate with the insurance company to secure a fair settlement.

Do I Need a Lawyer to Sue the Insurance Company?

If you're considering suing an insurance company, you may wonder whether you need a lawyer to navigate this process. While it's not a legal requirement to have a lawyer, seeking legal representation can be highly beneficial in dealing with insurance companies.

Insurance companies have legal teams and adjusters who are experienced in handling claims and negotiating settlements. Having a lawyer on your side can level the playing field and ensure that your rights are protected throughout the process.

A lawyer can provide valuable expertise in assessing the full extent of your damages, negotiating with the insurance company, and representing your interests in court if necessary. They can also handle the complex legal procedures and paperwork involved in suing an insurance company, allowing you to focus on your recovery.

Will My Case Go to Trial, or Will We Settle?

The answer to this question depends on various factors, including the specifics of your case, the evidence available, and the willingness of both parties to negotiate.

Both parties may opt to settle out of court in many car accident cases. This involves reaching an agreement on compensation without going to trial. Settlements can often save time and money, and they allow both parties to have more control over the outcome.

However, your case may proceed to trial if a fair settlement cannot be reached. This typically occurs when there are significant disputes over liability or the extent of damages or if the insurance company is unwilling to offer a reasonable settlement. Going to trial allows a judge or jury to decide the outcome of your case.

How to Choose the Right Lawyer

When it comes to choosing the right car accident lawyer, there are several important factors to consider:

• First and foremost, look for a lawyer with experience and expertise in handling car accident cases. Specialized knowledge in this area can significantly affect the outcome of your case.
• It's also essential to consider the lawyer or law firm's reputation and track record. Look for reviews, testimonials, and case results to gauge their success in representing clients in car accident claims. A lawyer with a strong track record of achieving favorable client outcomes will more likely provide effective representation.
• Communication and rapport are key elements in the lawyer-client relationship. Choose a lawyer who is attentive, responsive, and communicates clearly. A good lawyer will take the time to understand your situation, address your concerns, and keep you informed throughout the legal process.
• Lastly, consider the fee structure and ensure you clearly understand how the lawyer charges for their services. Many car accident lawyers work on a contingency fee basis, meaning they only receive payment if they successfully recover your compensation. Understanding the fee arrangement upfront can help you make an informed decision when choosing the right car accident lawyer for your case.

What Information Do I Need to Bring to My Consultation?

When preparing for your consultation at Guss Law for your car accident, gathering specific information and documents is helpful to ensure a productive and informative meeting. Here’s what we suggest:

• Bring any documentation related to your car accident, such as the police report, photographs of the accident scene, and any correspondence with insurance companies.
• Bring any medical records and bills related to the injuries you sustained in the accident. This includes details of any treatment, medication, or therapy you have received due to the accident. These documents will help your attorney understand the extent of your injuries and their impact on your life.
• It's also important to bring your automobile insurance policy and any correspondence you've had with your insurance company regarding the accident. This information will provide valuable insight into your coverage and the handling of your claim.
• Lastly, if you have any witness statements, contact information for witnesses, or any other relevant information, be sure to bring that to your consultation as well. The more information you can provide, the better your attorney will be equipped to assess your case and provide informed legal advice.

Contact a Dedicated Houston Car Accident Lawyer at Trust Guss Injury Lawyers Today

As you focus on your physical and emotional recovery, you can depend on our Houston car accident attorneys to protect your legal rights.

You don't have to deal with aggressive insurance adjusters or opposing lawyers alone. Why take chances with your financial security? Let us help you start today!

Get in touch for a free consultation at 866-720-7920, or contact us online now.