Personal Injury FAQs
What is the Cost of Hiring a Personal Injury Lawyer?
Wondering about the cost of hiring a personal injury lawyer in Texas? At BCH, we operate on a contingency-fee basis, meaning there's no need for upfront payment. You won't owe us anything unless we secure a settlement or award for you. Our fee is contingent upon your success in the case, typically derived from a percentage of the compensation obtained. This arrangement is especially beneficial for clients who may lack the financial means to cover legal fees upfront, ensuring access to representation without delay.
Are Personal Injury Lawsuits Criminal or Civil Cases?
Are personal injury lawsuits considered civil or criminal cases in Texas? Generally, personal injury cases fall under civil law rather than criminal law. Civil cases involve legal disputes between individuals or entities, while criminal cases pertain to violations of state or federal laws. In Texas, personal injury matters are typically resolved in civil courts.
It's important to note exceptions to this distinction. For instance, if the actions leading to the injury were criminal, a parallel criminal case might be pursued. Additionally, cases involving claims against the government can be more intricate due to sovereign immunity laws.
What is the Timeline for Filing a Personal Injury Claim?
In Texas, there's a statute of limitations for filing personal injury claims, typically set at two years from the date of the incident. It's critical to commence legal proceedings within this timeframe to protect your right to seek compensation. Failure to do so may result in the dismissal of your case, forfeiting your ability to pursue a claim.
However, exceptions and variations exist. For instance, if injuries are discovered later or if the injured party is a minor, the timeline may be extended. To ensure compliance with deadlines and address any complexities in your case, it's advisable to consult with one of our experienced Houston personal injury attorneys. They can offer tailored guidance based on your specific circumstances.
What Should I Avoid Doing After an Injury to Protect My Claim?
After an injury, taking certain actions could hurt your chances of receiving fair compensation. Some things you should not do include:
Don’t Give a Recorded Statement to Insurance Companies
Insurance adjusters may contact you quickly after the injury and ask for a recorded statement. While they might sound friendly, their goal is often to minimize the amount they pay. Anything you say could be used to weaken your claim. It’s best to consult with a lawyer before speaking to any insurance company.
Avoid Posting on Social Media
It’s tempting to share updates with friends and family, but even innocent posts can be twisted by insurance companies. If you claim you're injured but post a photo of yourself doing something active, they might argue you’re not as hurt as you say. Stay off social media until your case is resolved.
Don’t Delay Seeking Medical Attention
Even if you feel fine immediately after the accident, some injuries take time to show symptoms. Delaying medical treatment can hurt your case by giving the defense an argument that your injury wasn’t that serious. Get checked out as soon as possible and follow all medical advice.
Avoid Talking About Your Case with Others
Be careful about discussing your injury or the details of your case with friends, coworkers, or anyone besides your attorney. Statements can be misinterpreted and might come back to harm your case later.
Don’t Immediately Accept the First Settlement Offer
Insurance companies often make low initial offers hoping you’ll accept without fully understanding your claim’s value. Consult with your attorney before accepting any settlement to make sure it covers your medical bills, lost wages, and long-term recovery needs
How Long do I Have to File a Personal Injury Claim?
The timeframe for filing a personal injury claim is called the statute of limitations. The statute of limitations is determined by the state where you were injured. In most states, you typically have two to three years from the date of the injury to file a claim. However, this can differ based on the type of claim and specific state laws.
For Example, in Texas, the statute of limitations for personal injury cases here is generally two years from the date of the injury. That means if you were injured in Texas, you have up to two years to file your lawsuit, or you risk losing the right to seek compensation. However, there are exceptions to this rule. For example, if the injury wasn’t discovered right away, or if the injured person was a minor at the time of the accident, the deadline may be extended.
If you're unsure how much time you have left to file your claim, consult with a personal injury lawyer as soon as possible. We can Discuss your case and help you file a claim within the required time limits. Acting quickly can make all the difference in getting the compensation you deserve.
