Experiencing an accident that causes injuries is bad enough; what makes it even worse is when the accident happens due to someone else’s negligence. If you find yourself in that position, you’re naturally going to be stressed and overwhelmed.
But on top of that, many people in that position also have to deal with trying to understand the legal world of personal injury claims – something they most people (other than lawyers Houston) don’t have much experience with and don’t really want to have experience with.
That’s why we consulted with the experts at Ramsey Law Group to give us a clear, usable, and accessible understanding of what the personal injury claims process in Texas looks like from beginning to end. Here is what they had to say:
Seek Medical Attention
The most critical and initial step following an injury is to obtain medical care. You should prioritize your health and well-being above all else. Moreover, the medical record substantiates your personal injury claim.
Consult a Personal Injury Attorney
Obtaining fair compensation after an accident is much more likely if you have a qualified personal injury attorney in Houston working for you. A lawyer with experience handling cases like yours will not only know the ins and outs of your specific situation but also has a much better feel for the overall types of accidents that happen in and around the local area.
Filing an Insurance Claim
Your lawyers Houston will usually start by filing a claim with the insurance company of the party at fault before going ahead with a lawsuit. The insurer will take a look at the claim and may throw a settlement your way. Negotiating with the insurance company should be left to an attorney if you want to have a decent chance of getting what you are fairly due.
Settlement Negotiations
Payouts are minimized by insurance companies as a matter of course. In response, attorneys negotiate on behalf of their clients. When a satisfactory settlement is reached in an insurance payout case, the attorneys and insurance company representatives come to a working agreement that avoids the courtroom and leads to the case being resolved.
Filing a Lawsuit (If Necessary)
Your attorney may suggest that you file a lawsuit if negotiations do not reach a satisfactory conclusion. In Texas, the time limit for filing a personal injury claim is two years from the date of the injury. Filing ensures that your rights are preserved and that you may be able to receive the compensation you deserve. If litigation is necessary, it comes in the following steps:
- Discovery phase
- Mediation and pre-trial settlement talks
- Trial (If no settlement is reached)
- Collecting compensation (if victorious)
Local Lawyers Houston Can Help You Deal with Your Personal Injury Claim
Knowing the legal procedure for personal injury claims in Houston allows you to understand the in-court situation and makes you capable of deciding what to do next. Your chances of obtaining just compensation and a fair resolution of your claim go up when you have an attorney who knows the personal injury laws in Texas and has had ample experience in negotiation and litigation.
If you or a loved one sustains a personal injury, act without delay to protect your rights and your pathway to the compensation that you deserve.