After a car accident in Houston, questions come fast. Our car accident lawyers hear these questions every day. Here are honest, direct answers to the questions Houston accident victims ask us most. For even more detail, visit our full FAQ page.
Do I really need a lawyer after a minor car accident?
It depends. For truly minor fender-benders with no injuries and clear liability, you may be able to handle the claim yourself. But if you have any injuries — even ones that feel minor at first — an attorney can help ensure you are compensated for medical treatment you may not yet know you need. Soft tissue injuries and concussions often worsen days after the crash. Insurance adjusters for the at-fault party are always looking for ways to minimize your claim, regardless of how clear-cut the accident seems.
How long do I have to file a car accident lawsuit in Texas?
Texas has a two-year statute of limitations for personal injury claims, running from the date of the accident. Miss this deadline and you will almost certainly lose your right to sue entirely. Contact an attorney well before the deadline. Our resource on what to do after a car accident covers this and other timing considerations in detail.
What if the other driver is uninsured?
Texas has a high rate of uninsured drivers. If the at-fault driver has no insurance, your options include your own Uninsured Motorist (UM) coverage if you have it, your collision coverage for vehicle damage, and a direct lawsuit against the at-fault driver. This is exactly why carrying UM coverage in Texas is so important.
What if I was partially at fault for the accident?
Texas uses a modified comparative fault system. You can still recover compensation as long as you are not more than 50% at fault — but your award is reduced proportionally by your percentage of fault. Our personal injury attorneys work actively to ensure insurers do not unfairly inflate your share of fault to reduce what they owe.
How long does a car accident case typically take?
A straightforward case that settles without litigation might resolve in a few months. Cases involving serious injuries, disputed liability, or unresponsive insurers can take one to three years. Your attorney should keep you informed of realistic timelines for your specific situation.
What does “no fee unless you win” actually mean?
Personal injury attorneys typically work on a contingency fee basis — meaning you pay no upfront fees, and the attorney only gets paid a percentage of your settlement or verdict if they win. At Maida Law Firm, if we do not recover money for you, you owe us nothing.
Call Maida Law Firm at 713-785-9484 for a free, no-pressure consultation today.