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If you have been involved in a car accident in Texas, you need a lawyer that can protect your ability to seek justice and your right to fair compensation. Texas follows specific rules regarding fault, insurance, and filing deadlines that directly affect how injury and property damage claims are handled.
Matulis Law Firm believes that knowing these laws can help you make informed decisions and avoid costly mistakes that might impact your recovery. Our experienced personal injury attorneys are here to help you understand how Texas accident laws work while seeking the compensation you deserve.
When a car accident happens in Texas, determining who is to blame plays a major role in how victims are compensated. Fault determines who pays for medical bills, lost wages, and property damage after a crash. Understanding how these rules work and how your own level of responsibility can affect your claim is key to protecting your rights.
Yes. Texas is an at-fault state when it comes to car accidents. This means the driver who causes a crash is responsible for paying for the damages and injuries that result. In most cases, compensation comes from the at-fault driver’s insurance company, but if damages exceed the insurance limits, the driver may be personally liable.
Texas uses a modified comparative negligence system, which means you can still recover damages if you are partially at fault, as long as your share of responsibility is 50 percent or less.
However, your compensation will be reduced by your percentage of fault. For example, if you are awarded $100,000 but found 20 percent at fault, you would recover $80,000. A skilled car accident lawyer will work to determine your level of fault while seeking compensation for your injuries.
Texas law requires every driver to carry a minimum amount of liability insurance. The minimum coverage limits, known as 30/60/25, include:
Drivers may choose to purchase higher coverage amounts, which is often advisable to avoid being underinsured after a major accident.
Texas also requires that drivers report any crash involving injury, death, or more than $1,000 in property damage. Failing to report an accident could result in fines or license suspension.
Additionally, if you are hit by a driver who does not have insurance, you may still recover through uninsured or underinsured motorist coverage if it is included in your policy.
In Texas, you generally have two years from the date of a car accident to file a personal injury or property damage claim in court. This time limit, called the statute of limitations, is strict. Missing the deadline usually means losing your right to recover compensation.
There are limited exceptions. For example, if the injured person is a minor or mentally incapacitated, the statute may be paused until the disability ends. Claims against a government entity also have shorter notice requirements, often as little as six months.
Because every case is different, it is crucial to speak with an attorney as soon as possible after a crash to ensure you meet all filing deadlines.
Victims of car accidents in Texas may be entitled to various forms of compensation, depending on the severity of their injuries and the circumstances of the crash. Common categories include:
In rare cases, punitive damages may also be awarded if the at-fault driver acted with gross negligence, such as driving under the influence or engaging in reckless behavior. Your attorney will be able to help you estimate the amount of compensation you need for your damages and then work to secure it, but there are no guarantees.
Taking the right steps after a crash can make a significant difference in your claim. Immediately after an accident, you should:
Insurance companies often try to minimize payouts. To protect your claim, avoid these common pitfalls:
An experienced car accident attorney can communicate with insurers on your behalf to ensure your claim is handled properly and that you receive fair compensation.
It is always wise to contact a car accident lawyer as soon as possible after a crash, especially if injuries are involved or liability is disputed. An attorney can investigate the accident, gather evidence, and ensure that critical deadlines are met.
In the event you or a loved one passed due to an accident, a car accident attorney can also handle a wrongful death claim to secure compensation to help your family deal with funeral expenses or loss of income.
Early legal help can also prevent costly mistakes during the insurance claim process. Not only will an attorney be able to handle negotiations, a skilled personal injury lawyer will also be prepared to go to court should negotiations collapse. If necessary, your attorney can file a lawsuit to pursue full compensation for your damages.
At Matulis Law Firm, we are proud to serve clients throughout Galveston County and the greater Houston area. Our firm has deep experience handling car accident claims under Texas law and understands how insurance companies operate. We provide personalized representation for each client, guiding you through every step of your recovery.
When you work with our firm, you can expect:
If you have been injured in a car accident in Galveston, Houston, or anywhere in Texas, contact Matulis Law Firm today. Our team can review your case and explain your rights under Texas car accident laws.
Contact us at (409) 904-5781 to schedule a free, confidential consultation and let us help you move forward after your wreck.
This isn’t just another injury claim—it’s your life, your recovery, your future. And to us, that’s personal. We see people, stories, and the weight you carry. And that’s why we treat every case like it’s our own.
