Car Accident Attorneys in Houston Securing Justice for Injured Victims
Car accidents are a leading cause of injuries and fatalities in Texas, leaving countless individuals and families to face challenging physical, emotional, and financial hardships. At RTRLAW, we understand the devastating impact that car accidents can have on your life. Our experienced car accident attorneys in Houston are dedicated to fighting for your rights and securing the compensation you deserve.
Understanding the Prevalence of Car Accidents in Texas
Texas consistently ranks among the top states for car accidents, and Houston is one of the most car accident-prone cities. According to the Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT):
- There were over 560,000 reported crashes in Texas in 2022.
- Houston accounted for more than 10% of statewide accidents, and thousands of those accidents resulted in injuries or fatalities.
- Common causes of these car accidents include speeding, distracted driving, impaired driving, and weather-related factors.
Houston’s rapid urban growth and dense traffic contribute to a high accident rate, making it imperative for drivers to remain vigilant on the road. If you’ve been involved in a car accident in Texas, RTRLAW is here to help you navigate the complexities of Texas law and secure the compensation you need to rebuild your life.
What are the Most Common Causes of Car Accidents in Houston?
Car accidents often occur due to negligence or recklessness. Our attorneys handle cases involving a wide range of causes, including:
- Distracted Driving: Activities like texting, phone use, eating, and interacting with passengers divert attention from the road. Distracted driving is a leading cause of accidents in Houston and across Texas.
- Speeding: Exceeding the speed limit reduces reaction time and increases the severity of collisions. Speeding is particularly dangerous on Houston’s highways because traffic congestion is consistent and abrupt stops are common.
- Driving Under the Influence (DUI): Alcohol or drug usage significantly impairs judgment and reaction time. Despite strict DUI laws in Texas, intoxicated driving remains a major contributor to car accidents.
- Reckless Driving: Aggressive behaviors like tailgating, weaving through traffic, and running red lights create dangerous situations on Houston’s busy roads.
- Adverse Weather Conditions: Houston’s frequent rain and occasional flooding can lead to slippery roads and reduced visibility which increases the likelihood of accidents.
By identifying the cause of your accident, RTRLAW can build a strong case designed to hold the responsible party accountable.
What Types of Car Accident Cases does RTRLAW Handle?
At RTRLAW, we have extensive experience representing clients in a wide range of motor vehicle accident cases. Our legal team understands the complexities of these claims and works diligently to ensure victims recover the compensation they deserve. Some of the most common types of car accidents we handle include:
- Rear-End Collisions: Rear-end accidents are among the most frequent types of crashes and are often caused by distracted driving, tailgating, or sudden braking. Even at low speeds, these collisions can lead to significant injuries, including whiplash, spinal injuries, and concussions. In many cases, the driver who rear-ended another vehicle is held liable for failing to maintain a safe following distance.
- T-Bone Accidents: Also known as side-impact collisions, T-bone accidents usually occur at intersections when one driver fails to yield or runs a red light. Because the sides of vehicles provide less protection than the front or rear, these crashes often result in serious injuries such as broken bones, traumatic brain injuries, and internal organ damage. Victims of T-bone accidents may face long recovery times and extensive medical expenses.
- Head-On Collisions: Head-on car accidents are among the most dangerous types of accidents and often result in severe or fatal injuries. These accidents typically happen due to wrong-way driving, driver fatigue, or impaired driving. The high impact forces involved in these crashes can lead to life-threatening injuries, including spinal cord damage, internal bleeding, and multiple fractures.
- Multi-Vehicle Accidents: Multi-car pileups are common on Houston’s highways and congested roads especially in adverse weather conditions or due to sudden traffic stops. These accidents involve multiple drivers and complex liability issues and are likely to require an in-depth investigation to determine fault. Our attorneys work with accident reconstruction specialists to ensure victims receive the full compensation they deserve.
- Hit-and-Run Accidents: A hit-and-run accident occurs when a driver flees the scene without providing their contact information or aiding injured victims. These accidents can leave victims with significant financial burdens, especially if they are unable to identify the at-fault driver. RTRLAW can help victims pursue compensation through uninsured motorist coverage or legal action against responsible parties.
- Backing-Up Accidents: Backing-up accidents often occur in parking lots, driveways, or when a driver reverses without checking their surroundings. These collisions can be particularly dangerous for pedestrians, bicyclists, and motorcyclists who may be in a driver’s blind spot. While these accidents frequently result in soft tissue injuries and fractures, they can also be fatal in cases involving young children or elderly pedestrians.
- Left-Hand Turn Accidents: Left-hand turn accidents happen when a driver makes a left turn at an intersection and fails to yield to oncoming traffic. These crashes can lead to high-speed side-impact or head-on collisions, causing broken bones, neck injuries, and traumatic brain injuries. Liability in left-turn accidents can be complex, as the turning driver is often presumed to be at fault, but external factors—such as speeding or running a red light—can shift responsibility.
At RTRLAW, we understand how devastating car accidents can be. Our experienced personal injury attorneys fight to protect your rights, maximize your compensation, and hold negligent drivers accountable. If you or a loved one has been injured in a car accident, contact us today for a free consultation to discuss your legal options.
What are the Most Common Injuries Incurred from a Car Accident?
Car accidents can result in a wide range of injuries, from minor bruises to life-threatening conditions. Even low-speed crashes can cause significant harm, leading to long-term medical treatment, rehabilitation, and financial hardships. At RTRLAW, our Houston car accident attorneys help victims seek compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering caused by their injuries. Some of the most common car accident injuries we handle include:
- Head and Brain Injuries: Head injuries are among the most serious consequences of a car accident. Even a minor collision can cause a traumatic brain injury (TBI), which may result in concussions, memory loss, cognitive impairments, and chronic headaches. Severe TBIs can lead to permanent disabilities, requiring extensive medical treatment and rehabilitation.
- Chest Injuries: The impact of a crash can cause blunt force trauma to the chest, leading to broken ribs, collapsed lungs, and internal organ damage. Seat belts and airbags, while lifesaving, can also contribute to chest injuries by exerting extreme force to the body during a collision. These injuries often require emergency medical attention and extended recovery periods.
- Scrapes, Lacerations, Cuts, and Burns: Glass shards, metal debris, and loose objects inside a vehicle can cause deep cuts and lacerations, leading to scarring, infections, and nerve damage. In more severe cases, burn injuries can result from vehicle fires or contact with hot surfaces, requiring skin grafts and long-term medical care.
- Leg and Arm Injuries: Passengers and drivers often experience leg and arm injuries when their limbs are crushed, twisted, or pinned during an accident. Common injuries include fractures, sprains, dislocations, and nerve damage, which may require surgery, physical therapy, and extended rehabilitation.
- Soft Tissue Injuries: Soft tissue injuries involve damage to muscles, ligaments, and tendons and can be particularly painful and long-lasting. These injuries may not appear immediately but can lead to chronic pain, limited mobility, and long-term discomfort. Common examples include sprains, strains, and deep contusions.
- Whiplash and Neck Injuries: Whiplash is one of the most common injuries in car accidents, particularly in rear-end collisions. This injury occurs when the neck is forcefully jerked forward and backward, causing severe pain, stiffness, headaches, and dizziness. In some cases, whiplash can lead to chronic pain and long-term mobility issues.
- Spinal Injuries: Spinal cord injuries can have life-altering consequences, potentially leading to partial or complete paralysis. Even less severe back injuries, such as herniated discs or pinched nerves, can cause debilitating pain and limited mobility. Victims of spinal injuries often require extensive medical treatment, physical therapy, and adaptive equipment to regain independence.
- Broken and Fractured Bones: The force of a car accident can easily break bones, leading to painful fractures in the arms, legs, ribs, and pelvis. In some cases, victims may need surgical intervention, such as metal plates, rods, or screws to stabilize the broken bones. Severe fractures can result in long recovery times and permanent physical limitations.
- Fatalities: Tragically, some car accidents result in fatalities, leaving families devastated by the sudden loss of a loved one. If you have lost a family member due to another driver’s negligence, you may be entitled to pursue a wrongful death claim. RTRLAW’s compassionate attorneys are here to help families seek justice, financial security, and accountability for their loved one’s untimely passing.
At RTRLAW, we understand the physical, emotional, and financial toll that car accident injuries can take on victims and their families. Our Houston car accident lawyers are dedicated to fighting for the maximum compensation you deserve, whether through negotiation or litigation, every step of the way.
What Steps Should You Take After a Car Accident in Houston, Texas?
Being involved in a car accident can be a traumatic and overwhelming experience, leaving victims unsure of what to do next. However, the actions you take in the immediate aftermath of a crash can have a significant impact on your health, financial recovery, and legal options. Whether you were involved in a minor fender bender or a severe collision, knowing how to protect yourself legally and financially is crucial.
At RTRLAW, we help car accident victims navigate the claims process. By following some essential steps, you can strengthen your case and improve your chances of recovering the damages you deserve. Steps you should take include:
- Seek Medical Attention: Your health should always be your top priority after a car accident. Even if you don’t feel injured immediately, some injuries—such as whiplash, concussions, or internal bleeding—can take hours or even days to manifest. Seek medical attention right away to ensure your well-being and create official documentation of your injuries.
- Call the Police: Regardless of the severity of the accident, always contact the police to report the incident. Police reports provide an official record of what happened and can be vital evidence in your personal injury claim. Officers will assess the scene, document key details, and determine who was at fault. All of which can help support your case.
- Gather Evidence: If you are physically and safely able to do so, collecting evidence at the scene can help build a strong case. Take photos and videos of vehicle damage, your injuries, skid marks or road conditions, traffic signals or signs, weather conditions, etc. Additionally, obtain contact information from witnesses, as their statements can support your claim if liability is disputed.
- Notify Your Insurance Company: Texas law requires drivers to report car accidents to their insurance company. However, avoid making detailed statements or accepting blame before consulting with an attorney. Insurance adjusters often attempt to minimize payouts or use statements against you to reduce your compensation. It’s best to have legal representation before engaging in discussions with insurance companies.
- Contact RTRLAW: Before accepting any settlement offer, consult with an experienced Houston car accident attorney. At RTRLAW, we will evaluate your claim, handle negotiations with insurers, and fight to ensure you receive the full compensation you deserve. Insurance companies are often not on your side—having legal representation can prevent you from being taken advantage of and help ensure you receive a fair settlement.
The steps you take after a car accident can greatly impact your physical recovery and financial future. By seeking medical attention, gathering evidence, and consulting with a qualified personal injury attorney, you can strengthen your claim and maximize your potential compensation.
How Do You Prove Fault in a Car Accident Case?
Determining who is at fault in a car accident is one of the most crucial aspects of securing compensation for your damages. Texas follows a modified comparative fault rule, which means that an injured party can recover damages as long as they are not more than 50% at fault for the accident. However, if you are found partially responsible, your compensation will be reduced by your percentage of fault. For example, if you are determined to be 20% at fault for an accident and are awarded $100,000 in damages, you will receive $80,000 after the reduction.
Insurance companies often try to shift blame to reduce their liability, which is why having strong evidence and an experienced attorney is essential. At RTRLAW, our attorneys meticulously investigate car accidents to establish fault and hold the negligent driver, or party, responsible. RTRLAW does this by:
- Reviewing Police Reports: A police report is one of the most critical pieces of evidence in a car accident case. Officers at the scene document important details such as:
- Statements from drivers and witnesses
- Traffic law violations (e.g., speeding, running a red light, failure to yield)
- Weather and road conditions
- Diagram of the accident scene
- The officer’s opinion on fault
While police reports are not always admissible in court, they provide valuable insights that can support your claim and help prove negligence.
- Analyzing Physical Evidence: Physical evidence from the accident scene can help reconstruct how the crash occurred and establish who was at fault. Our attorneys will analyze:
- Vehicle damage to determine the point of impact
- Skid marks to assess braking distance and speed
- Debris from the accident to confirm vehicle positions and impact force
- Road conditions, including potholes, weather hazards, or missing traffic signs
Additionally, photos and video footage captured at the scene can serve as compelling evidence to prove fault.
- Gather Witness Testimonies: Eyewitness accounts can strengthen your case by providing an unbiased perspective on how the accident happened. Witnesses may include:
- Other drivers or pedestrians who saw the crash occur
- Passengers in either vehicle
- Business or home surveillance footage that captured the incident
Our attorneys will interview witnesses, gather their statements, and use them to corroborate the evidence.
- Consult With Accident Reconstruction Experts: In complex cases, RTRLAW works with accident reconstruction specialists to analyze the crash. These experts use scientific methods and advanced technology to recreate the events leading up to the accident. By examining factors such as:
- Vehicle speeds and angles of impact
- Roadway conditions at the time of the crash
- Driver reactions and braking distances
- Data from vehicle black boxes (if available)
An accident reconstruction expert can provide a professional, evidence-based opinion on how the crash occurred and who was at fault.
- Review Medical Records: If you were injured in the accident, your medical records serve as key evidence to prove the severity of your injuries and their direct connection to the crash. Medical records can:
- Support your claim for compensation by proving the extent of your injuries
- Refute any claims by the insurance company that your injuries were pre-existing
- Help demonstrate the long-term impact of your injuries, including pain and suffering
- Obtain Cell Phone and Traffic Camera Footage
If distracted driving played a role in the accident, cell phone records can help determine whether the at-fault driver was:
- Texting or using a phone at the time of the crash
- Making a call or using a mobile app while driving
Additionally, nearby traffic cameras, dash cams, or security footage may have captured valuable video evidence that shows the sequence of events leading to the crash.
Proving fault in a Texas car accident can be challenging, especially when insurance companies try to minimize their liability. Our attorneys are skilled in gathering and presenting evidence to ensure liability is accurately assigned.
What Compensation is Available in Car Accident Claims in Texas?
Victims of car accidents may be entitled to several types of compensation, including:
Economic Damages
- Medical Expenses: Hospital stays, surgeries, medications, and rehabilitation costs
- Lost Wages: Compensation for time missed at work due to injuries
- Property Damage: Costs to repair or replace your vehicle
Non-Economic Damages
- Pain and Suffering: Compensation for physical and emotional distress
- Loss of Enjoyment: Damages for reduced quality of life
- Disfigurement or Disability: Compensation for permanent injuries
Punitive Damages
In cases involving extreme negligence, such as DUI, courts may award punitive damages to punish the at-fault party and deter similar behavior.
RTRLAW fights to ensure you receive full compensation for all damages, both economic and non-economic.
How Long do You Have to File a Car Accident Claim in Texas?
In Texas, the statute of limitations for filing an auto accident claim is two years from the date of the accident. Failing to file within this timeframe may result in losing your right to seek compensation. Don’t worry, though, that is not always the necessarily the case.
Exceptions may apply in certain cases, such as:
- Injuries Involving Minors: If the injured party is under 18, the statute of limitations may be extended.
- Delayed Discovery of Injuries: Some injuries, like concussions or internal damage, may not be immediately apparent.
Contacting an attorney as soon as possible ensures that you meet all deadlines and preserves your ability to pursue justice.
What is the Car Accident Lawsuit Process?
Filing a car accident lawsuit in Texas can be a complex process, but understanding the steps involved can help you navigate your claim with confidence. At RTRLAW, our experienced car accident attorneys handle every aspect of the legal process, ensuring that you receive maximum compensation for your injuries and losses.
Below is a step-by-step breakdown of the car accident lawsuit process in Texas:
Step 1: Initial Consultation & Case Evaluation
The first step in any auto accident lawsuit is scheduling a free consultation with a personal injury attorney. During this meeting, our legal team will:
- Review the details of your accident
- Assess your injuries and damages
- Determine whether you have a strong case
- Explain your legal rights and options
At RTRLAW, we work on a contingency fee basis, meaning you pay nothing unless we win your case. If you decide to move forward, we will begin gathering evidence to support your claim.
Step 2: Investigation & Evidence Collection
A strong case relies on solid evidence. Our attorneys will conduct a thorough investigation to build a compelling claim by:
- Obtaining police reports and reviewing accident details
- Collecting medical records and bills
- Gathering photos, videos, and surveillance footage
- Interviewing witnesses
- Consulting accident reconstruction experts if needed
This step is crucial in proving fault and establishing the full extent of your damages.
Step 3: Filing an Insurance Claim
Before filing a lawsuit, we typically file a claim with the at-fault driver’s insurance company. In this stage, our attorneys will:
- Submit all collected evidence to the insurance company
- Demand compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, property damage, and pain and suffering
- Handle all communications and negotiations with insurance adjusters
Many cases are settled during this stage, but if the insurance company refuses to offer a fair settlement, we will proceed to file a lawsuit.
Step 4: Filing the Lawsuit
If negotiations fail, we will file a lawsuit in a Texas court. This formal complaint outlines:
- The at-fault party’s negligence
- The damages you are seeking
- Evidence supporting your claim for compensation
Once the lawsuit is filed, the defendant (at-fault driver and their insurer) is served with legal documents notifying them of the case.
Step 5: Discovery Phase
During discovery, both parties exchange evidence and information relevant to the case. This includes:
- Depositions: Sworn testimony from all involved parties and witnesses
- Interrogatories: Written questions answered under oath
- Document Requests: Exchanging medical records, accident reports, and other key evidence
This phase helps strengthen your claim while giving both sides insight into the case’s strengths and weaknesses.
Step 6: Mediation & Settlement Negotiations
Many car accident cases are resolved before trial through mediation or settlement discussions. Mediation involves:
- A neutral third-party mediator facilitating discussions between both parties
- A chance to negotiate a fair settlement agreement
- Avoiding the time and costs associated with a trial
If both parties agree to a settlement, then the case is resolved, and you receive compensation. However, if the insurance company still refuses to offer a fair amount, we are prepared to take your case to court.
Step 7: Trial & Court Proceedings
If a settlement isn’t reached, your case proceeds to trial. During the trial:
- Both sides present arguments and evidence
- Witnesses and experts provide testimony
- The judge or jury determines liability and compensation
Trials can take months or even years, but RTRLAW aggressively fights for the maximum compensation you deserve.
Step 8: Receiving Compensation
If you win your case, the court will order the defendant to pay your awarded damages. These can include:
- Medical expenses (past and future)
- Lost wages and reduced earning capacity
- Pain and suffering
- Property damage
- Punitive damages (in cases of gross negligence)
Once compensation is awarded, we ensure you receive your full payout as quickly as possible.
The auto accident lawsuit process can be overwhelming, but you don’t have to go through it alone. RTRLAW’s skilled Houston car accident attorneys handle every aspect of your case, from investigation to trial, so you can focus on your recovery.
Why Choose RTRLAW in Houston?
Our firm has experienced car accident lawyers that are committed to securing justice for our clients. Here’s what sets RTRLAW apart:
- Decades of Experience: We’ve handled thousands of car accident cases across Texas and have been helping injured victims since 1988.
- Proven Results: Our attorneys have secured millions of dollars in settlements and verdicts for car crash victims.
- No Fees Unless You Win: You pay nothing upfront—our fees are contingent on recovering compensation for you.
- Personalized Attention: We treat every client like family. We pride ourselves on offering compassionate support and clear communication.
When you hire RTRLAW, we handle every aspect of your case, including:
- Investigating the accident and gathering evidence
- Negotiating with insurance companies to secure a fair settlement
- Representing you in court if litigation becomes necessary
Our goal is to maximize your recovery and alleviate the stress of the legal process so you can focus on healing.
If you’ve been injured in an automobile accident, don’t wait to seek legal help. The Texas statute of limitations generally allows only two years from the date of the accident to file a claim. RTRLAW’s personal injury attorneys in Houston are ready to fight for your rights and secure the compensation you deserve.
Contact us today for a free consultation by calling 346-250-5211 or emailing [email protected]. Let RTRLAW help you navigate this challenging time with confidence.