Horizon City Car Accident Lawyers

Car accidents are an unfortunate reality on the roads of Horizon City, Texas. Whether caused by distracted driving, speeding, or poor road conditions, these incidents can result in significant physical, emotional, and financial burdens. Understanding the legal landscape surrounding car accidents is crucial for residents and visitors alike. Knowing what to do after an accident, how fault is determined, and what legal options are available can make a substantial difference in protecting your rights and seeking compensation for your losses.

Texas follows specific laws regarding car accidents, liability, and insurance requirements. Drivers must be aware of their responsibilities under state law to ensure they comply with legal requirements and take the necessary steps to safeguard their interests. This comprehensive guide addresses common questions related to car accidents in Horizon City, providing clarity on legal obligations, insurance coverage, fault determination, and the steps individuals should take following an accident.

What Should I Do Immediately After a Car Accident in Horizon City?

The moments following a car accident can be overwhelming, but taking the proper steps can help ensure safety and protect legal rights. The first priority should always be checking for injuries. If anyone is hurt, calling 911 immediately to request medical assistance is essential. Even if injuries appear minor at first, seeking medical evaluation is important, as some injuries may not show symptoms immediately.

If it is safe to do so, moving the vehicles to a secure location away from traffic can prevent further accidents or hazards. However, if the accident results in serious injuries or death, Texas law requires drivers to remain at the scene and wait for law enforcement. Failing to do so could result in criminal charges for leaving the scene of an accident.

Exchanging information with other drivers involved in the accident is also required. This includes providing names, addresses, driver’s license numbers, vehicle registration details, and insurance information. Additionally, if the accident causes injury, death, or property damage exceeding $1,000, it must be reported to the local police department or sheriff’s office as soon as possible.

Is Texas an At-Fault State for Car Accidents?

Texas operates under an at-fault system for car accidents, meaning the driver responsible for causing the accident is liable for any damages. The at-fault driver’s insurance company is typically responsible for covering the costs of medical expenses, property damage, and other losses incurred by the victim.

Victims of car accidents have multiple options when seeking compensation. They can file a claim with their own insurance company, submit a third-party claim against the at-fault driver’s insurance provider, or pursue a personal injury lawsuit if necessary. Determining fault plays a crucial role in these cases, as Texas follows a modified comparative fault rule. If a driver is found to be more than 50% responsible for the accident, they may be ineligible to recover damages. This rule emphasizes the importance of gathering evidence, such as witness statements, police reports, and photographs from the scene, to establish liability.

What Are the Minimum Car Insurance Requirements in Texas?

Texas law mandates that all drivers carry minimum liability insurance to cover damages in the event of an accident. The required coverage includes at least $30,000 for bodily injury per person, $60,000 for bodily injury per accident, and $25,000 for property damage per accident. This coverage is intended to pay for injuries and damages caused by the insured driver.

While carrying the minimum required insurance meets legal obligations, it may not be sufficient to cover the full extent of damages in a serious accident. Many drivers choose to purchase additional coverage, such as uninsured or underinsured motorist protection, Personal Injury Protection (PIP), or comprehensive coverage, to provide greater financial security. In cases where the at-fault driver does not have enough insurance, victims may need to explore other avenues for recovering compensation.

What Happens if the At-Fault Driver Does Not Have Insurance?

Despite Texas laws requiring drivers to carry insurance, some motorists fail to comply. If an at-fault driver does not have insurance, recovering compensation can become more complicated. One option is to file a claim through uninsured or underinsured motorist coverage, which many drivers include in their policies. This type of insurance helps cover medical expenses, lost wages, and other damages when the at-fault driver lacks sufficient coverage.

Another potential course of action is to pursue a personal injury lawsuit against the uninsured driver. However, even if a court awards damages, collecting compensation may be challenging if the driver lacks personal assets. This highlights the importance of having comprehensive insurance coverage that can provide financial protection in such situations.

How Long Do I Have to File a Car Accident Claim in Texas?

Texas law imposes a statute of limitations on car accident claims. Generally, an individual has two years from the date of the accident to file a lawsuit for personal injury or property damage. Failing to take legal action within this time frame may result in losing the right to seek compensation.

Certain circumstances can alter this deadline, though. For example, if the injured party is a minor at the time of the accident, the statute of limitations may be extended. Additionally, cases involving government entities, such as accidents with government-owned vehicles, may have different deadlines and procedural requirements. Seeking legal guidance as soon as possible after an accident can help ensure compliance with all relevant deadlines.

What if I Am Partially at Fault for the Accident?

Texas applies a modified comparative negligence rule when determining liability in car accident cases. This means that a driver who is partially responsible for an accident may still recover damages, as long as they are not more than 50% at fault. However, the amount of compensation awarded will be reduced by the percentage of fault assigned to the injured party. 

For example, if a driver is found to be 20% responsible for an accident, their total compensation will be reduced by 20%. This rule makes it essential to present strong evidence when negotiating with insurance companies or pursuing legal action. Insurance companies often attempt to shift blame onto the injured party to minimize their payout, so having documentation such as accident reports, medical records, and witness testimony can be crucial in protecting one’s claim.

How Can Legal Representation Help After a Car Accident?

Navigating the legal and insurance processes after a car accident can be overwhelming, especially when dealing with injuries, medical bills, and lost wages. Understanding the full scope of available legal options can be difficult without proper guidance. Legal representation can help individuals protect their rights, gather necessary evidence, and negotiate effectively with insurance companies.

Insurance adjusters often try to minimize settlements or deny claims outright. Having legal assistance can help ensure that all relevant factors are considered and that victims are treated fairly during the claims process. Legal representation can also be valuable in cases where liability is disputed, evidence is needed to establish fault, or when a fair settlement cannot be reached through negotiations.

Horizon City Car Accident Lawyers at Flores Mendez Law Understand the Legal Complications in Car Accident Cases

Recovering from a car accident involves not only physical and emotional healing, but also addressing the legal and financial challenges that arise. The Horizon City car accident lawyers at Flores Mendez Law are dedicated to helping individuals understand their options and pursue fair outcomes after an accident. Call us today at 915-308-9999 or fill out our online form for a free consultation. With our offices located in El Paso, Texas and Las Cruces, New Mexico, we gladly serve clients in the surrounding areas.