If you have been in a car accident and need help, you are in the right place. We understand how scary and confusing this time can be. You may be hurt, your car may be damaged, and you may not know what to do next. You might be asking yourself who is going to pay for all of this. We are here to help guide you. At our firm, we know how to handle this case, and we care about what you are going through.
Why Liability Matters in a Car Crash
After a car crash, one of the most important questions is who was at fault. In Texas, this is not just a small detail. It can decide who pays for your medical bills, lost work time, and the damage to your car. Texas uses a rule called “fault-based” or “tort-based” insurance. This means the person who caused the crash is the one who must pay for the harm done.
Knowing who is at fault is important because the insurance company will look at this when they decide how much money you should get. If the other driver caused the crash, their insurance should pay for your costs. But if the insurance company thinks you were partly at fault, they may try to pay you less or even nothing at all. That’s why it is important to understand how Texas rules work.
What is Proportionate Responsibility
Texas follows something called proportionate responsibility. This rule says that more than one person can be at fault in a crash. If you were also doing something wrong, like speeding or not watching the road, the amount of money you can get may go down.
For example, if a court says you were 20% at fault and the other driver was 80% at fault, you can still get money. But the amount will be 20% less. So, if your damages were $10,000, you would only get $8,000. But if you were 51% or more at fault, you can’t get any money at all. This rule makes it very important to show clearly that the other driver caused the crash.
Enrique Chavez
Texas Trial Attorney
Protecting Your Rights
How Fault is Decided in a Car Accident
Fault is not always easy to prove. It can depend on many things, like what the police report says, what witnesses saw, photos from the crash, and even video from traffic cameras or businesses nearby. Insurance companies will study all of these to decide who they believe is at fault.
But remember, insurance companies are not always fair. They want to pay as little as possible. Sometimes they may blame you just to reduce how much they owe. That is why it is helpful to have someone on your side who knows how to show what really happened and protect your rights.
The Role of the Police Report
When the police come to a crash scene, they write a report. This report includes what both drivers said, what any witnesses said, and the officer’s opinion on what caused the crash. It may also have details like road conditions, skid marks, and damage to the cars.
This report is a key piece of evidence. But just because it says something does not mean it is the final word. Sometimes officers make mistakes. Sometimes they don’t see everything. You still have the right to tell your side of the story and show proof that the report may have left out.
– Steve Hendrix
– Adriana Solis
– Luis Amador
– Maria Terrazas
What You Should Do After a Crash
If you have been in a car crash, the first thing to do is get help. If you are hurt, call 911. Make sure the police come and write a report. If you are able to, take photos of the cars, the road, and anything else that might help show what happened. Get the names and contact information of any witnesses.
After that, you should talk to a lawyer before you talk to the other driver’s insurance company. What you say can affect your case. Even a small comment like “I’m sorry” can be used against you later. You need someone who understands these rules and can guide you the right way.
Why Timing Matters in Texas Car Accident Cases
In Texas, you only have two years to file a claim after a car crash. This time goes by faster than most people think. If you wait too long, you might not be able to get help at all. That’s why it’s smart to act quickly. Even if you are still getting medical treatment, you can start your case so your rights are protected.
Also, the longer you wait, the harder it may be to gather proof. Witnesses may forget things. Photos may get lost. Cameras that recorded the crash may delete the video. Getting help early can make a big difference in your case.
What Damages Can You Get
If someone else caused the crash, you may be able to get money for many things. This includes doctor bills, hospital stays, therapy, car repairs, and even lost time from work. If the crash caused pain or made it hard for you to enjoy life the way you did before, you may be able to get money for that too.
In some cases, if the other driver was drunk or driving dangerously, you may even get extra money as a punishment to them. But to win any of this, you must show that they were at fault and that the crash caused your harm. This is where a strong case really helps.
How a Legal Team Can Help Your Case
You do not have to go through this alone. A strong legal team can collect evidence, speak with insurance companies, and make sure your story is told clearly. They can help you figure out how much your case is worth and fight for every dollar you deserve.
They also understand the games insurance companies play. These companies may try to delay your case, offer you a small amount, or blame you. A good team knows how to push back and keep your case moving forward. This can make a big difference in your final result.
When Your Case Goes to Court
Most car crash cases in Texas settle without going to court. But sometimes the insurance company refuses to be fair. When that happens, you may need to go to trial. If that happens, a legal team can prepare everything for you, including picking the right evidence, talking to witnesses, and making sure your case is strong in front of a judge or jury.
Going to court can sound scary, but it is often the best way to get what you are owed. If your case is well-prepared, it can lead to a better result than settling for less. You need someone by your side who is not afraid to take that step for you if needed.
You Deserve a Fair Outcome
If you were in a car crash and are dealing with pain, confusion, or bills you cannot afford, you are not alone. Texas law gives you the right to be treated fairly. But to get what you deserve, you need to understand the rules and make smart choices. That starts with getting help from a team that knows how to handle this case.
At the end of the day, you want your life back. You want peace of mind, and you want to know that someone is fighting for you. That’s why it’s so important to speak with someone who truly understands what you’re going through and knows how to win.
If you or someone you love has been in a crash and needs help, we are ready to step in. The team at Chavez Law Firm has helped many people through this hard time, and we’re ready to help you too. You don’t have to do this alone. Reach out to us today and let’s talk about how we can help you get the outcome you deserve.