Car Accident FAQs

Texas is a fault-based state — the driver who caused the crash through negligence is responsible for the damages. Sometimes multiple parties share liability, including commercial vehicle owners, employers, or vehicle manufacturers. Our legal team investigates every angle to ensure accountability.

Texas follows a rule called “modified comparative negligence.” The basic rule is that you can still recover compensation if you were less than 51% at fault. In that type of situation, any award is reduced by your percentage of fault. So, for example, if you were 20% at fault,
you can still recover 80% of your damages.

The cost of a car accident attorney depends on a variety of factors. Not every case is the same, as some may require more work than others. However, retaining a car accident attorney does not have an initial cost. Instead, most attorneys work on contingency, which means you pay them only if you win your case. If you do win, your attorney will take a predetermined amount or percentage of the award. Professional attorneys will go through this information with you before you hire them and outline it in your agreement.

Determining the average settlement for a Houston, Texas car accident can be complex. It depends on various factors, such as the severity of injuries, extent of property damage, and liability issues. Settlement amounts can vary widely from case to case, and there’s no one-size-fits-all answer.

Injury Severity

In general, the more severe your injuries and damages, the higher the average settlement for a Houston, Texas car accident will be. This includes compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other related losses. In addition, if an investigation shows the other party is at fault for the accident, you may be entitled to a larger settlement to cover your losses.

Insurance Company Calculations

Insurance companies often use various methods to calculate settlement amounts, including medical expenses, lost income, and the severity of injuries. They may also consider factors such as the strength of evidence, witness statements, and expert opinions in determining a fair settlement offer.

It’s essential to consult with a qualified Armstrong Lee & Baker LLP attorney with experience in personal injury law to assess the value of your claim accurately and negotiate with the insurance company on your behalf. An experienced attorney can help you gather evidence, document your damages, and build a solid case to maximize your potential settlement.

Check for injuries first. Call 911 to report the crash and get medical help. Stay at the scene, exchange driver and insurance information, and take photos of vehicle damage, the scene, and any visible injuries. Even if the accident seems minor, make sure a police report is filed — it can be crucial evidence later.

Yes. Many serious injuries, such as concussions or internal trauma, don’t show up right away. Seeing a doctor right after the crash protects both your health and your legal rights. Medical documentation helps prove that your injuries were caused by the accident.

In most cases, you have two years from the date of the accident to file a personal injury lawsuit. If you miss this deadline, you may lose your right to seek compensation. It’s important to contact a lawyer as soon as possible so critical evidence isn’t lost.

• Medical expenses (past and future)
• Lost wages and loss of future earning capacity
• Pain and suffering
• Emotional distress
• Disfigurement or physical impairment
• Property damage
• Punitive damages (in rare cases of gross negligence)

If the other driver is uninsured or underinsured, you may still have options. You can file a claim under your own uninsured/underinsured motorist (UM/UIM) coverage, or we can explore other liable parties — such as a vehicle owner, employer, or even a manufacturer — depending on the circumstances.

No. Insurance companies often offer low settlements early on — before the full extent of your injuries or future medical costs are known. Once you accept, you can’t go back for more. Always speak with a lawyer before signing anything.

Having an experienced attorney can make a huge difference. We handle the investigation, deal with insurance companies, and fight to make sure you’re not pressured into an unfair settlement. At Armstrong Lee & Baker LLP, we take cases on a contingency fee basis — you pay nothing unless we win for you.

Fault is determined by reviewing evidence such as police reports, witness statements, accident reconstruction, traffic laws, and physical evidence. Even if the police report lists you as “at fault,” you may still have a valid claim — we often uncover facts the report overlooks.

This is common. That’s why it’s crucial not to settle too quickly. Once you accept an offer, you cannot seek additional compensation later. Our attorneys often consult with medical experts to understand the long-term effects of your injuries before negotiating any settlement.

Police officers do their best, but reports aren’t always perfect. If there’s incorrect information, we can help you submit a supplement or gather additional evidence (such as witness statements, photos, or surveillance footage) to clarify what really happened.

Yes. Passengers almost always have the right to pursue compensation for their injuries, regardless of which driver was at fault. You may be able to file a claim against the driver of your vehicle, another involved driver, or both.

Every case is different. A straightforward case might settle in a few months, while complex cases — especially those involving severe injuries or disputed fault — may take a year or longer. Our firm keeps you informed every step of the way and pushes for a fair resolution as quickly as possible.

It can. Insurance companies often monitor claimants’ social media. Photos, comments, or check-ins that make you appear uninjured or active can be used against you. We recommend avoiding any accident-related posts until your case is resolved.

Yes. Texas law allows you to recover if the accident aggravated a pre-existing condition. What matters is the change in your health caused by the crash — not that you had a prior issue. Clear medical documentation makes this easier to prove.

You may have a claim against a government entity, but these cases follow strict rules and shorter deadlines under the Texas Tort Claims Act. Contact a lawyer immediately so we can file the required notices on time.

Generally, compensation for physical injuries is not taxable under federal law, and Texas has no state income tax. However, interest or punitive damages may be taxable — our team can guide you on what to expect.

Don’t give up. Insurance companies often deny valid claims to protect their profits. Our attorneys are relentless in appealing wrongful denials, uncovering evidence, and filing lawsuits when necessary.