Car Accidents

Compassion When You Need It

A car accident can change your life in a moment. If you're facing painful injuries, missed work, or mounting bills after a crash on a Texas highway, you're not alone. At AskLitigation, we understand how overwhelming this time can be for Texas residents. In 2024, Texas recorded over 560,000 motor vehicle crashes—that's approximately 1,534 accidents every day. Behind each of these statistics is a person whose life has been disrupted. We're here to guide you through the legal process, answer your questions, and help you regain control.

Car crashes remain one of the most common types of traffic accidents in the Lone Star State. Our Texas attorneys help people navigate not only car accidents but also motorcycle accidents and pedestrian accidents.

What Counts as a Car Accident?

A car accident is any collision involving at least one motor vehicle that causes injury, death, or property damage. These can include:

• Rear-end collisions on busy Houston or Dallas freeways
• Intersection accidents at Texas's notoriously dangerous crossroads
• Multi-vehicle pileups on I-35, I-45, or I-10
• Hit-and-run crashes, which are unfortunately common in urban Texas areas
• Distracted or impaired driving incidents, which contributed to over 1,000 Texas fatalities in 2024

If you're hurt in a crash, you may have a claim under Texas personal injury law. In some cases, car accidents are linked to defective vehicle parts or dangerous road conditions on Texas highways.

Texas Laws on Car Accidents

Texas law protects drivers, passengers, and pedestrians injured in car accidents. Here's what you need to know:

• You have two years from the date of the crash to file a claim for injuries (Texas statute of limitations).
• Texas uses a "modified comparative fault" system with a 51% bar rule—your compensation can be reduced if you were partly at fault, and you cannot recover if you are 51% or more at fault.
• All Texas drivers must carry minimum liability insurance of 30/60/25 ($30,000 for injuries per person, $60,000 per accident, and $25,000 for property damage).
• If the other driver was uninsured (approximately 20% of Texas drivers), you may still have options for recovery through your own insurance.

Car accident claims often involve both Texas state and federal rules. For example, crashes involving commercial trucks on interstate highways may also be governed by federal regulations.

What Are Drivers Required to Do?

Texas drivers have specific legal obligations before and after a crash:

• Stay at the scene and exchange information (leaving the scene is a serious offense in Texas)
• Report any accident causing injury or property damage exceeding $1,000 to law enforcement
• Provide aid to anyone who is injured
• Notify your insurance company promptly
• File a Driver's Crash Report with the Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT) within 10 days if police don't file a report

Failing to meet these obligations could result in criminal charges and negatively impact your ability to recover damages after an accident.

Steps to Take After a Crash

After a car accident on Texas roads, your health and safety come first. Here's an action plan to protect your rights:

• Seek medical care right away, even for minor injuries
• Take photos of the scene, vehicles, and injuries
• Get names and contact details for witnesses
• File a police report and request a copy (essential for Texas insurance claims)
• Don't discuss fault at the scene or with insurance adjusters
• Contact a Texas car accident attorney for advice specific to your situation

What Damages Can You Recover?

After a car accident in Texas, you may be able to recover compensation for:

• Medical expenses, current and future (crucial in Texas where healthcare costs are significant)
• Lost wages and reduced earning potential
• Pain and suffering
• Property damage
• Out-of-pocket costs
• In cases of extreme negligence, punitive damages may be available under Texas law

The amount you can recover depends on the facts of your case and how Texas's modified comparative negligence rules apply to your situation.

Frequently Asked Questions About Texas Car Accident Claims

How long do I have to file a car accident claim in Texas?

In Texas, you have two years from the date of the car accident to file a personal injury claim. If a government entity is involved (such as a Texas Department of Transportation vehicle), shorter deadlines of six months or less may apply.

What if I was partly at fault for the crash?

Texas uses a modified comparative fault system with a 51% bar rule. If you were less than 51% responsible, your compensation may be reduced by your percentage of fault. If you are found to be 51% or more at fault, you cannot recover any damages.

What damages can I recover after a car accident in Texas?

You may recover medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering, property damage, and more. In cases involving gross negligence, Texas law may allow for additional punitive damages.

Should I talk to the insurance company before contacting a lawyer?

It's wise to consult a Texas car accident attorney first. Texas is home to many major insurance companies who employ skilled adjusters trained to minimize your claim. A lawyer can help protect your rights under Texas law.

Do I need to report the accident to the police in Texas?

Yes, Texas law requires you to report any accident resulting in injury, death, or property damage exceeding $1,000. If police don't come to the scene, you must file a Driver's Crash Report with TxDOT within 10 days.