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Motor Vehicle Accident Overview

When to Seek Help Causes Injuries Types Preventing Injuries What to Do Laws and Regulations What to Bring Getting Your Crash Report Compensation Why Choose Davis Law Group FAQs

Recovering From Car Accident Injuries With Legal Help

Hundreds of car accidents happen every day across America. When we’re lucky, we get away with just a minor fender bender. But when accidents are serious, they are devastating. Car accidents are responsible for injuries like whiplash, traumatic head and brain injuries, broken ribs, internal bleeding, and psychological pains, including post-traumatic stress disorder and guilt. Our motor vehicle accident attorneys in Houston, Texas, will help you recover financial compensation for your vehicle, but more importantly, we care about your health and justice.

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Case Type: Motor Vehicle Accident

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Our Approach

Car accidents can be very serious incidents. When an accident results in a fatality, navigating personal injury law, in addition to making familial arrangements, can be overwhelming. Our team is here to try and ease the stress that comes with the legalities of restoring your family and livelihood. Take relief in knowing that our team of motor vehicle accident lawyers in Houston, Texas, is knowledgeable, experienced, and here to advocate for your best interests. At Davis Law Group, you're in good hands.

When Should I Turn to a Houston Automobile Accident Lawyer?

If you are injured or involved in a car accident, it is important to contact a car accident lawyer right away. Oftentimes, when you file a claim, the insurance company will have a team of attorneys and adjusters completing the evaluation, where they may offer you less than is justified or, worse, deny your claim. Insurance companies may also face challenges when disagreeing over who is at fault. In these situations, turn to a car crash attorney in Houston who knows the law to the fullest extent and has the necessary experience to ensure you receive the most favorable outcome.

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I was able to speak with one of their lawyers, Mr. Davis, regarding a stressful case and he was very attentive and caring. He was able to give me a great amount of guidance and I felt very reassured at the end of the consultation. I would recommend this firm if you’re looking for a team that is personable and will work hard for you.

L.T.

Your legal team for life’s most challenging moments.

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What Are Common Causes of Car Accidents?

Car accidents often happen suddenly, but they are usually the result of preventable behavior or unsafe conditions. Identifying the causes of crashes can help clarify fault and liability. At Davis Law Group, we help injured clients understand how these factors apply to their case and what compensation may be available.

Common causes include:

  • Distracted driving (texting, phone use, in-car distractions)
  • Speeding or aggressive driving
  • Drunk or drug-impaired driving
  • Failure to yield or obey traffic signals
  • Unsafe lane changes or merging errors
  • Tailgating and following too closely
  • Poor weather or road conditions
  • Driver fatigue or drowsy driving

What Injuries Often Result From Car Accidents?

Car accidents can cause injuries ranging from minor bruises to life-changing medical conditions. Our attorneys see a lot of these injuries in the cases we handle, and we understand how they can affect a person’s health, finances, and daily routine. 

Some of the most common injuries resulting from car accidents include:

  • Whiplash and neck injuries: Sudden movement during a collision can strain muscles and ligaments, causing pain, stiffness, and limited mobility.
  • Traumatic brain injuries: Head impacts can lead to concussions or more serious brain damage that affects memory, concentration, and coordination.
  • Broken bones: The force of a crash can fracture the arms, legs, ribs, wrists, and other bones, sometimes requiring surgery.
  • Back and spinal cord injuries: Damage to the spine can cause chronic pain, reduced mobility, nerve damage, or paralysis.
  • Internal injuries: Blunt-force trauma can damage organs or cause internal bleeding that requires immediate medical attention.
  • Cuts, bruises, and burns: Broken glass, deployed airbags, and damaged vehicle components can cause wounds, bruising, and burns.
  • Psychological trauma: Some accident victims experience anxiety, depression, or post-traumatic stress that interferes with everyday life.

Types of Car Crashes We Deal With in Houston

Head-On Collisions

A head-on collision is an accident in which the fronts of two vehicles collide while traveling in opposite directions. They are reported to be responsible for about 10% of crash-related deaths in the United States. Some common causes of a head-on collision include driving while intoxicated, fatigue, distracted driving, and road hazards. Drivers involved in this type of accident can sustain serious injuries or even worse.

Fender Benders

One of the most common types of car accidents is a fender bender. While this is considered a minor accident, it typically causes vehicle damage, with rarely any serious injuries sustained by drivers and/or passengers. Those involved in the accident may experience whiplash, injuries to the arm and wrist, and back pain. Fender benders occur at low speeds and are a result of distracted driving, navigating crowded spaces like parking lots, and more.

Rear-End Collision

A rear-end collision occurs when one vehicle crashes into the back of another. In most cases, the driver who rear-ends another is at fault due to unsafe driving practices such as tailgating. However, there are situations in which the vehicle in front acts negligently. This includes when a driver decides to reverse suddenly and without warning, fails to fix broken brake lights or other mechanical malfunctions, and performs brake checks.

Uber/Lyft/Taxi Accidents

With more people using rideshare services like Uber and Lyft, as well as taxis, traffic on the roads has increased. Accidents involving a passenger can range in severity, and liability is determined by whose vehicle hits whose. Accidents involving rideshare companies or taxis can be complicated when it comes to obtaining compensation, which is why it's important to hire an expert attorney.

Sideswipe Collisions

When two vehicles are driving next to each other, and the left side of one vehicle collides with the right side of the other, this is called a sideswipe accident or collision. The culprits of these accidents are changing lanes without checking blind spots, merging into another lane without caution, distracted driving due to texting, eating, or drinking, driving while intoxicated, aggressive driving, and fatigue. This type of accident can involve multiple vehicles, resulting in critical injuries.

Rollover Accidents

Rollover accidents are among some of the most severe and can result in traumatic injuries and fatalities. While it’s true that larger vehicles tend to be involved in rollover crashes, any vehicle can roll over under the right circumstances. Some causes of this type of accident include tripping (striking soft soil, a guardrail, or a curb), inclement weather, speeding, driving while impaired, design and manufacturing defects, and poor road conditions.

Side Impact Accidents

Also referred to as a T-bone accident, a side-impact accident occurs when the front of a driver’s vehicle hits another vehicle from the side. Severe injuries, as well as fatalities, may occur due to the lack of a structural barrier at the point of impact. Side impact collisions are commonly caused by driving while intoxicated, engaging in distracted driving behaviors, poor weather conditions, failing to obey traffic signals and signs, and speeding.

Failure to Yield Accidents

When drivers fail to adhere to traffic laws, serious ramifications can transpire. Yielding to other drivers in certain situations is not only the law but also helps prevent accidents and serious injuries. Examples include failing to yield to oncoming traffic when making an unprotected turn, engaging in aggressive driving while merging onto a freeway or highway, disobeying flashing yellow or red lights, and more. It is typical for the victim of the crash to collide with the vehicle that has failed to yield.

Chain Reaction Accidents

A chain-reaction accident involves multiple vehicles and may occur due to the carelessness of more than one driver. Rear-end accidents are the outcome of a vehicle forcefully colliding with another car, causing it to hit a third. These accidents usually involve more than two vehicles. Causes of chain reaction accidents include distracted driving, aggressive driving, impaired driving, and inclement weather. Oftentimes, drivers do not maintain a safe distance from other vehicles, which can also contribute to the severity of a chain-reaction accident.

Teen Driver Accidents

Teenagers can receive their driver’s license at 16 upon passing the permit and driving tests. Many teenage driving accidents occur because of a lack of experience, forms of distracted driving like texting, eating, or changing the radio station, reckless driving, driving with other teenage passengers, and more. It has been reported that car accidents are the leading cause of fatalities among teenagers in the United States.

Older Adult Driver Accidents

As seniors age, operating a vehicle can become more challenging due to various health conditions. Although they may want to exert their independence, they are more at risk of endangering themselves and others on the road. While most states require elderly drivers to renew their licenses and undergo vision tests, accidents can still occur that can consequently cause serious injuries or even fatalities. If another driver is responsible, the elderly driver or their family may receive compensation.

Self-Driving Car Accidents

Self-driving vehicles navigate the road without human input. While they’re supposed to operate safely without human intervention, these vehicles, like any others, can still be subject to accidents. Most self-driving car accidents are, in fact, due to human error. If there is a road hazard or another traffic situation, the car may not respond properly, which could result in an accident. Determining who is liable for the accident can often be difficult, as there are different factors to consider.

Uninsured Car Accidents

When purchasing a car, drivers are responsible for making sure they are covered by an auto insurance policy. This type of insurance protects drivers in the event of unexpected events, such as car accidents. In situations where an accident occurs and one driver fails to provide insurance information, an uninsured motorist claim may be filed under the other driver’s car insurance policy. Some drivers don’t purchase insurance because they simply can’t afford it. In these circumstances, it is important to have help from an expert attorney.

Employer Liability for Car Accidents

When an employee is performing a job-related task and is involved in a car accident, the employer may be liable if the employee sustains injuries. This is often referred to as vicarious liability. Many professions that drive on behalf of their employers include food delivery drivers, truck drivers, construction workers, and bus drivers. Even if a driver is not operating a company-owned vehicle, the employer may still be liable.

Hit-and-Run Accidents

Hit-and-run accidents happen when a driver of a vehicle hits another vehicle, pedestrian, or object and flees the scene. Leaving the scene of an accident without providing proper identification or seeking medical attention for those affected is a crime. Drivers may choose to leave after a hit-and-run accident due to being uninsured, driving while under the influence of alcohol or drugs, being previously convicted of another crime, experiencing fear or confusion, or being involved in a car chase.

Bus Accidents

Buses help numerous people commute to their destination every day, and unfortunately, they are not immune to car accidents. Bus accidents can cause serious injuries because many buses lack safety equipment, such as seatbelts, and passengers are often forced to stand due to a lack of available seating. The size of buses puts them at more risk for rollover accidents. Common causes of bus accidents include poor road conditions, bad weather, reckless driving, and more.

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How Can I Prevent Car Accident-Related Injuries?

Avoiding a car accident is sometimes impossible if another driver acts negligently; however, there are ways to prevent injuries in the event of an accident. Drivers and passengers should wear their seatbelts at all times. Adhere to traffic laws by following the speed limit posted, using turn signals, and paying attention to what is happening on the road. It is also important to have your vehicle serviced to ensure there are no mechanical issues that could cause serious injuries.

What Should I Do After I've Been in an Accident?

Call 911 (If Emergency)

In the event of a serious car accident, it is important to call 911 right away if possible. Police officers can arrive at the scene and gather information regarding the accident. They can also assist with redirecting traffic if the drivers involved are unable to pull off to the side. First responders may also be necessary if medical attention and treatment are required, as well as if victims need to be extricated from their vehicle.

Seek Medical Care

Receiving appropriate medical attention and care is crucial after being involved in a car accident. Serious injuries need to be attended to in a timely manner, so those involved in the accident should call for help immediately. In circumstances where drivers and or passengers are unable to do so, a bystander can be of assistance. Even if a victim believes they don’t need immediate medical attention, it is possible that symptoms of an injury may appear later, which is why it’s important to see a doctor or healthcare professional.

Exchange Insurance Information

Following an accident, it is important for the parties involved to exchange insurance information. An insurance card contains the name of the insured, their address, the insurance company and policy number, the make, model, and year of the vehicle, vehicle identification number, and the date the policy went into effect, as well as the expiration. If an officer is at the scene, they can help document the accident and later provide those involved with a report.

Take Photos of the Scene

If possible, capture photos of the accident and the location in which it happened. Photos may include the damages sustained by the vehicles involved, any hazards that may have been present, the conditions of the road, the weather, traffic signs that are visible, and any injuries that are apparent at that moment. Visual evidence of the damage will be helpful when reporting the accident to your insurance company, helping you receive rightful compensation.

Gather Contact Information of Witnesses

Witnesses can be extremely vital in car accident cases as they may have seen exactly what occurred. They can provide drivers with valuable information on what they saw happen, which can prove to be helpful when insurance companies are trying to determine who was at fault. It is important to get the names and phone numbers of any witnesses so that they can report their version of the accident to an insurance claims adjuster.

Document the Accident

It is important to document the accident in order to be able to provide your insurance company with the necessary information when filing a claim. After an accident occurs, make sure to take note of the accident's date, time, location, road conditions, weather conditions, damages, injuries, number of vehicles involved in the collision, drivers and passengers involved in the collision, numbers and names of witnesses, and information regarding any responding police officers at the scene.

Report the Accident

Once you have documented the car accident, it is time to file a claim with your insurance company. However, before reporting the accident, it is in your best interests to get in contact with an experienced personal injury lawyer who specializes in car accident cases. A lawyer can help guide you through the claims process and ensure you are fairly compensated for any injuries and damages incurred. Their goal is to help you receive the most favorable outcome.

Call Davis Law Group

When you are ready to receive legal support for your accident, it is important to call the experienced and knowledgeable motor vehicle accident lawyers in Houston at Davis Law Group. It is our priority to mitigate the stress that comes with the legalities of restoring your family and livelihood. Our firm will stand by your side, navigating your personal injury case with diligence to ensure you are awarded the financial compensation and justice you need to return to your life.

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Auto Driver Laws and Regulations

Speed limits, traffic signals, road signs, the list goes on. Disobeying these traffic rules and posted signage can lead to serious consequences. The purpose of driving laws and regulations is to help maintain driver safety while traveling to their intended destination, including preventing motor vehicle accidents. If not operated properly, vehicles can be extremely dangerous. When another driver fails to comply with the law, they are acting with negligence and can endanger others.

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What to Bring to Your Car Accident Consultation

Preparing for your car accident consultation can help Davis Law Group better understand your situation and evaluate your legal options. If available, bring the following documents and information to your meeting:

  • Police or accident reports: Details about the collision and parties involved.
  • Medical records and bills: Documentation of your injuries, treatment, and expenses.
  • Photos and videos: Images of the accident scene, vehicle damage, and injuries.
  • Insurance information: Policy details and correspondence with insurance companies.
  • Witness contact information: Names and details of anyone who saw the crash.
  • Lost wage records: Pay stubs or employer statements showing missed income.
  • Relevant communications: Messages or letters about the accident and your claim.

You do not need every document to get started. Our team can help identify any missing evidence and explain the next steps to pursue compensation.

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How Do I Get My Houston Crash Report?

A crash report can provide important details about a collision, including the drivers involved, road conditions, and the responding officer’s observations. If you were involved in an accident in Houston, you can typically request a copy through the Texas Department of Transportation’s Crash Report Online Purchase System. You may need information such as the crash date, location, and names of those involved to locate the correct report.

If you need help obtaining or understanding your report, our team at Davis Law Group can explain how this document may support your car accident claim. Although a crash report can be valuable evidence, it may not establish fault on its own. Keeping a copy alongside your medical records, photographs, and insurance correspondence can help you document what happened and pursue compensation.

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What Compensation Can I Receive After a Motor Vehicle Accident?

A motor vehicle accident can leave you facing unexpected expenses, lost income, and physical pain that affects your daily life. If another party’s negligence caused the crash, you may be entitled to compensation for the losses you have suffered. Davis Law Group can help you understand your legal options and pursue damages that may include:

  • Medical expenses: Costs for emergency care, hospital stays, surgeries, medications, rehabilitation, and future medical treatment.
  • Lost wages: Income lost while recovering from your injuries, along with reduced future earning capacity if you cannot return to your previous job.
  • Pain and suffering: Compensation for physical pain, emotional distress, and the impact your injuries have on your quality of life.
  • Property damage: Expenses to repair or replace your vehicle and other personal property damaged in the collision.
  • Loss of enjoyment of life: Damages for limitations that prevent you from participating in activities you previously enjoyed.
  • Permanent disability or disfigurement: Compensation for lasting physical impairments, scarring, or other long-term effects of the accident.

Why Choose Davis Law Group to Handle Your Car Crash Case in Houston, Texas?

Motor vehicle accidents can cause serious, long-lasting injuries, and having an experienced legal team by your side makes all the difference. Founded in 2013 by double board-certified personal injury attorney Joshua P. Davis, Davis Law Group brings nearly twenty years of experience handling complex injury claims. Our Houston attorneys approach every case with care, focus, and determination, crafting strategies that reflect the unique circumstances of your accident while prioritizing your health and recovery. With more than 100 cases successfully tried, our firm has earned a reputation for results-driven advocacy and attentive client service.

Joshua Davis’s professional achievements include:

  • Board Certification in Civil Trial Law
  • Board Certification in Personal Injury Trial Law
  • Super Lawyers Honoree
  • Rising Star Honoree
  • Rising Star Up-And-Coming 100
  • Top 100 Verdicts, Top Verdict

Whether your case involves a car, truck, or other motor vehicle, we understand the challenges victims face and will fight to protect your rights. If you’ve been injured, contact Davis Law Group today to speak with our motor vehicle accident attorneys in Houston and begin pursuing the compensation you deserve.

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Motor Vehicle Accident FAQs

What if the accident was my fault?

Do I need a lawyer if the accident wasn’t my fault?

What if the other driver has no insurance?

Should I accept a settlement?

Should I get medical attention even if I feel ok?

Should I still hire a lawyer for a minor accident?

How long do I have to file a lawsuit for personal injuries/property damage?

Will I have to go to court?

Why do I need a lawyer?

How long will it take to resolve my case?

How much do car accident lawyers cost in Texas?

How do I read my car accident report?

Who can be held liable for my car accident?

How do you prove negligence?

Should I talk to the other driver's insurance company?

What if the accident was my fault?

If you are at fault for a motor vehicle accident, it is still in your best interest to contact an attorney. A motor vehicle accident attorney in Houston can help handle the logistics of your case and protect your rights in the event that you are involved in a personal injury lawsuit.

Do I need a lawyer if the accident wasn’t my fault?

While hiring a lawyer isn’t required, it may be beneficial to you as a lawyer can help you avoid liability for the accident as well as receive compensation for property damage, injuries, etc. Having a lawyer by your side can eliminate stress, allowing you to focus on healing.

What if the other driver has no insurance?

If you find yourself in a situation where the other driver is uninsured, your insurance company will likely cover any damages if you are protected by uninsured motorist coverage. If you don’t have uninsured motorist coverage, it is important to speak to a motor vehicle accident lawyer in Houston about potentially filing a personal injury claim against the other driver.

Should I accept a settlement?

If an insurance company offers you a settlement, you do not have to accept, especially if you believe you are not being fairly compensated. Insurance companies do not always have your best interests in mind and typically offer less compensation in order to maximize their own profits. Work with a lawyer to make sure you receive what you are entitled to.

Should I get medical attention even if I feel ok?

Regardless if you feel fine, it is important to get examined by a medical professional. It is possible that you may not experience pain or other injury-related symptoms until a few days following the accident. Not seeing a doctor could affect your chances of receiving compensation for any injuries that may worsen.

Should I still hire a lawyer for a minor accident?

Again, although hiring a lawyer is not a mandatory requirement, there are several advantages to having one when navigating your accident. A motor vehicle accident attorney in Houston can help you with filing your insurance claim, which can often be complex. They can offer support and guidance and work to ensure you are financially compensated for any damages.

How long do I have to file a lawsuit for personal injuries/property damage?

Under a statute of limitations, drivers involved in a car accident who wish to file a lawsuit must do so within a certain period of time. In Texas, you are given two years from the date of the accident to file a lawsuit for personal injuries and property damage.

Will I have to go to court?

While most lawsuits are resolved before going to trial, if a settlement can not be agreed upon or liability cannot be determined, a personal injury claim may be taken to court. A jury will be selected, and they will make a decision based off of the evidence presented to them.

Why do I need a lawyer?

A lawyer is necessary following car accidents because your insurance company is not always on your side. Companies may short-change your claim, withholding the compensation you should receive. Legally, proving liability can be difficult, settlement options are confusing, and filing lawsuits is complex. An attorney assures that you don’t miss out on financial compensation.

How long will it take to resolve my case?

There is no definitive answer for how long a case will take. Even the most simple of accidents may take longer than a year. However, this fact should not deter you from seeking legal action. Longer cases tend to rule in favor of the plaintiff and result in higher compensation.

How much do car accident lawyers cost in Texas?

At Davis Law Group, our car accident lawyers in Texas work on a contingency fee basis, meaning you generally do not pay attorney fees upfront. Instead, we receive an agreed-upon percentage of the compensation recovered through a settlement or verdict. The specific fee arrangement and responsibility for case-related expenses should be outlined in your agreement before you move forward.

How do I read my car accident report?

A Texas car accident report typically includes the date and location of the crash, driver and vehicle information, road conditions, and the investigating officer’s observations. Review the report for errors in identifying information, the crash description, and any contributing factors listed. Keep in mind that the report may not establish fault conclusively. Our team can help you understand how the report's findings may affect your claim.

Who can be held liable for my car accident?

Liability depends on the circumstances of the crash and the actions of those involved. A negligent driver may be responsible, but other parties, such as employers, vehicle manufacturers, or government entities responsible for unsafe road conditions, may also be liable in certain cases.

How do you prove negligence?

Proving negligence generally requires establishing four elements: the other party owed you a duty of care, they breached that duty, their actions caused your injuries, and you suffered damages as a result. Evidence such as police reports, photographs, witness statements, medical records, and expert opinions can help demonstrate what happened.

Should I talk to the other driver's insurance company?

You should be cautious when communicating with the other driver's insurance company after an accident. Although you may need to provide basic information, you are generally not required to give a recorded statement to the other driver's insurer. Avoid speculating about fault or accepting a settlement before understanding the full extent of your injuries and losses. We can help you evaluate settlement offers and understand your options before agreeing to any payment.

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