HOUSTON PERSONAL INJURY ATTORNEY
Did you know that, according to the Bureau of Justice Statistics, just 3% to 4% of personal injury cases go to trial? While this is a promising statistic, you don’t need to be headed to trial to benefit from hiring Houston personal injury attorneys. If you’ve suffered an injury in Houston, you may be wondering if hiring a personal injury attorney is the right way to go. It can certainly seem daunting and overwhelming. After all, your life has been flipped upside down by an unexpected accident or incident.
All in all, hiring the best possible personal injury law firm can often make it easier for you to navigate complex insurance claims and other paperwork associated with seeking justice for injuries. A good lawyer who specializes in handling the case not only takes some of the burdens out of pursuing justice but gives you peace of mind that every avenue will be explored on your behalf. So, let’s analyze when might be the right time to find a good attorney.
Different Types of Personal Injury Cases
Before you contact a Houston personal injury attorney for injury cases, it is important to understand the types of injuries you may have and the types of claims that can be made. So, let’s start from the beginning. A personal injury case involves physical or emotional harm caused by another person, company, government agency, or other entity. There are different types of personal injury case such as medical malpractice, car accidents, defective products, and premises liability cases. All involve trying to recoup damages from the responsible party. Looking into the types of the personal injury case and the personal injury law, before contacting a lawyer can make it easier to receive proper legal advice. This will also help you accurately assess your situation. With this background knowledge, you’ll understand how your lawyer is approaching your case and determine if an offer is fair to get the best outcome for you.
Car Accidents
Before you contact a personal injury law firm for a motor vehicle accident, it is important to understand the types of injuries you may have and the types of claims that can be made. So, let’s start from the beginning. A Personal injury case involve physical or emotional harm caused by another person, company, government agency, or other entity. There are different types of personal injury cases such as medical malpractice, car accidents, defective products, and premises liability cases. All involve trying to recoup damages from the responsible party. Looking into the types of l injury cases before contacting a lawyer can make it easier to receive proper legal advice. This will also help you accurately assess your situation. With this background knowledge, you’ll understand how your lawyer is approaching your case and determine if an offer is fair to get the best outcome for you.
Product Liability
Product liability injury cases involve product-related accidents and injuries. These cases occur when someone is injured due to a product defect from a product they were either buying, using, or otherwise exposed to. The product can be anything from toys, medications, prescription drugs, vehicles, and more. In product liability injury cases, product manufacturers, designers, and distributors are held liable for the defect that resulted in a person’s injury. Victims of these cases must prove their injuries were due to product defects for them to successfully gain damages in court, though. That’s why it’s best to hire a team of experienced lawyers and gather ample evidence to show proof of the product’s fault.
Medical Malpractice
Medical malpractice cases refer to medical negligence when medical professionals fail to provide a certain standard of care. Victims of medical malpractice may be able to pursue legal action against the guilty medical professional or institution. This means that an individual can sue for medical malpractice if the medical care rendered was not up to the expected medical standard and because of this careless act, their injuries were sustained or worsened significantly. This type of legal claim is taken very seriously, as medical malpractice could have detrimental effects on victims’ quality of life as well as financial hardship.
Wrongful Death
A wrongful death case is a legal claim brought to court when an individual dies as the result of another person’s wrongful action. Wrongful deaths can arise from a wide array of circumstances including:
Automobile and workplace accidents
Medical malpractice
Criminal behavior
Product defects
Motor vehicle accidents
Car accident
What’s the desired outcome of a wrongful death case? In some cases, a great outcome could mean seeking compensation for medical bills expended before the wrongful death, as well as other costs such as funeral expenses. Many wrongful death cases also seek punitive damages. These are meant to punish wrongdoers and act as a deterrent in future situations involving accidents resulting in a wrongful death.
Workplace Accidents
Workplace accident injury cases center around accidents that result in serious injuries or illnesses. It doesn’t matter whether or not the workplace is at fault for those mishaps. These workplace incidents cover a broad range of situations, including:
Negligent workplace behavior
Incorrect workplace practices and working situations
Not supplying the correct safety equipment
Businesses need to be aware of accidents and the ways they can cause harm to employees. This ensures they can maintain proper workplace conditions. However, this isn’t always possible. Not every business has a compliance department and is familiar with personal injury law. Whether the injury occurred due to negligence or another party’s wrongful act, workers in such a situation can seek compensation for any costs associated with their injury. This includes medical bills and lost wages.
Animal Bites & Attacks
Animal bite injury cases are civil matters which occur when a person is harmed due to an animal bite or attack. These cases can be complex, as there is often controversy surrounding animal ownership, negligence, and animal behavior. For example, an animal bite personal injury case can involve:
Trying to prove who the animal’s owner is
Whether the animal had previously attacked someone
If the animal was handled or contained correctly
Depending on the nature of the animal bite injury and the entity at fault, victims often file lawsuits to receive compensation for medical bills, pain and suffering, lost wages due to missed time from work, and more. Because they’re somewhat complex, dog bite attorney assistance is usually necessary for animal bite injury cases for people to receive proper compensation for their injuries.
Premises Liability
Premises liability is a legal term that refers to the responsibility of property owners to ensure the safety of guests while they are on the premises. People who suffer injury as a result of negligence or hazardous conditions on someone else’s property may be eligible for premises liability compensation. To establish premises liability in a legal case, you have to prove that the business or premises owner should have been aware of the hazard or condition. You also have to prove that they failed to take reasonable steps to prevent harm from coming to visitors. If you can prove these criteria, both the property owner and any other liable parties could be held responsible for damages.
Slip & Fall Accidents
Finally, the last major type of personal injury case is a slip and fall case. A slip and fall legal case is a form of personal injury lawsuit where the claimant alleges that they suffered a serious injury due to treacherously maintained property. This type of legal claim is based on the concept of, well, premises liability. This states that property owners must keep their properties reasonably safe for people using them in any way. If a person is injured by slipping or falling as a result of negligently maintained conditions on the premises (such as wet surfaces or hazardous objects that do not appear obvious) then they may be able to pursue damages against the responsible party. If you’ve been injured, however, we know it can be quite difficult to prove this. In that case, it helps to hire a personal injury lawyer.
What Does a Personal Injury Attorney Do?
Now that you’re a little more aware of the different types of personal injury cases, it’s helpful to understand how personal injury lawyers could help you with your case. How exactly would a Houston personal injury lawyer help you? What kinds of job responsibilities do they have when it comes to personal injury cases specifically? Here are some basic responsibilities of most houston personal injury lawyers.
Investigate Claims
An accident lawyer not only help victims recover damages for medical expenses, but they also investigate claims to hold the responsible parties accountable for any consequences that have occurred.
Personal injury lawyers go through meticulous steps to fully understand how and why the personal injury happened, so they can work to ensure their client receives fair compensation. They look into all necessary documentation and witness statements about the accident or incident, reviewing all possible details that could be relevant in court proceedings.
This means that information collected by personal injury lawyers is invaluable. After all, they’ll often use it in court as evidence to support a claim of negligence against a party responsible for personal injuries suffered by their client.
Gather Evidence
Likewise, Houston personal injury lawyers can be an invaluable asset when seeking a fair settlement from an insurance company following an injury. They’re experienced in determining which evidence is most important and relevant to win a houston personal injury case. These Houston injury attorneys will help you gather the necessary paperwork such as:
Medical records
Accident reports
Workplace records
Personal financial documents
Eyewitness accounts
Additionally, best personal injury lawyers will:
Speak with experts about your case
Investigate other potential parties for liability
Intervene with insurance companies on your behalf
Negotiate settlements
Having the best personal injury lawyer at your side during this time can help ensure that your rights are protected. They’ll also help you receive full compensation for any injuries sustained due to negligence or malicious intent.
Negotiate with Insurance Companies
Have you tried to negotiate with the insurance company on your own? If so, you’ve likely found that it’s difficult, to say the least. When you negotiate on your own, the insurance companies can take advantage of the situation and try to settle for a lower amount than what you are entitled to. With an experienced personal injury attorney by your side, you can protect yourself from this and negotiate for fair compensation. Additionally, an accident lawyer has experience in understanding the complexities of legal contracts and claims which adds significant weight to negotiating with insurance companies. They also know how much money you should receive to cover bills, long-term care costs, lost wages, and more. Overall, hiring a personal injury attorney is important if you wish to get the best outcome during negotiations with insurance companies.
Send Demand Letters
A demand letter is a document sent to an insurance company or at-fault party in a personal injury litigation. It usually outlines the victim’s damages and the amount of financial compensation being requested. It is an important part of the negotiation process and helps both parties come to a resolution outside of court. You need to carefully construct demand letters. They should include all relevant details about the accident, including medical treatment and bills for services rendered. This can help convince an insurance company or at-fault party to settle before proceeding with more costly litigation. However, you don’t have to go at this alone. An experienced Houston personal injury lawyer can write one for you.
Prepare Pleadings
Personal injury attorneys can help you prepare pleadings for a case by researching and utilizing the facts surrounding the legal situation. They’re experienced in navigating court proceedings. So, they know which pleadings they need to draft and file to present their case successfully. What does this involve? Namely, a personal injury attorney will advise you on what steps to take. They’ll also use legal arguments to make during negotiation and litigation. Additionally, a great Houston personal injury lawyer will ensure that your pleadings are in line with applicable laws and legal precedents. This ensures that you have a better chance at success in your case.
Conduct Discovery
The discovery process in a personal injury litigation involves gathering evidence and information that supports or disproves an argument. During the discovery process, an accident lawyer may:
Take depositions
Request production of documents
Conduct interrogatories
Having a personal injury attorney who understands this process can be invaluable. An attorney can help you:
Navigate the complexities of the personal injury claim
Ensure all relevant information is gathered
Protect your rights as a client
Help secure a fair resolution to the case In addition, good attorneys also have access to helpful resources during the discovery period. This includes access to experts who can evaluate evidence and help illustrate how much compensation should be sought after.
Represent Clients at Trial
Finally, hiring Houston personal injury lawyers after you’ve been injured or have had a personal accident can be a big help if the case goes to trial. They’ll be able to:
Lout for your best interests
Fight for fair compensation
Help guide you through any court proceedings
A personal injury attorney specializing in injury cases will also have connections to medical experts. During a trial, these experts can provide facts and evidence that are critical to your claim’s success. All in all, when hiring Houston personal injury lawyers, you gain access to skills, knowledge, and resources that would otherwise be unavailable to represent yourself in court.
Do You Need a Personal Injury Attorney?
With the above-mentioned skills in mind, do you need to hire a personal injury attorney? We’ll be honest about the fact that, more often than not, an experienced attorney can help. However, that’s not always the case. To determine whether or not hiring a Houston personal injury attorney is right for you, ask yourself the following questions.
While this might seem obvious, the first question is to determine if you had an accident or were the victim of some sort of negligence. Personal injury attorneys specialize in handling claims that are related to accidents resulting to , so if your case falls into one of the categories above, it’s recommended that you reach out to a lawyer for professional advice. An experienced attorney can help you determine if your situation warrants legal action and if so, they can provide the guidance and representation needed to get you the best possible outcome. The bottom line? Consider speaking with an experienced lawyer if you were in an accident and need advice on how to proceed.
Next, to determine if you need an accident lawyer that specializes in personal injury law, it’s important to assess the severity of your injury. For example, is the injury considered serious? This could include injuries such as:
Broken bones
Traumatic brain injuries
Back injuries
Severe burns
Loss of an arm or leg
Vision loss or blindness
Internal organ damage
If so, then it would be wise to enlist the help of an experienced lawyer. Detailed and complex cases such as these often require extensive knowledge and expertise to pursue them effectively and obtain great results.
Receiving medical treatment following an accident is an important factor to consider if you’re considering seeking legal help. Insurance companies may argue that your injury wasn’t caused by the accident or that you delayed treatment, which impacted the cost of your injury. That’s why it’s essential to seek medical help right away as soon as you experience an injury. If you haven’t received any medical treatment, it can still be possible to file a claim. However, seeking medical help should be a priority in this situation. The bottom line here? If you’ve been injured in Houston due to someone else’s negligence, it’s important to find a Houston personal injury lawyer who can review your medical records and consult expert witnesses to build the strongest case possible. Failing to receive timely, appropriate medical care for your injuries could mean losing out on full compensation for your losses.
Another one of the main questions to ask when determining who is at fault for your injury is who was responsible for the accident. If someone else was negligent in their actions, then you may be able to seek compensation for your injuries. However, it can be difficult to prove who caused the accident and who should be held liable without a personal injury lawyer. That’s why engaging with a Houston personal injury lawyer who specializes in such cases might be the best choice. They have the resources and experience necessary to investigate who is liable and deliver the results needed to seek appropriate compensation for the injury caused by another person’s negligence.
Next, you’ll want to consider how much time has passed since the accident. This is because, in Texas, there is a two-year statute of limitations (see Texas Civil Practice and Remedies Code § 16.003(a) for filing a lawsuit if you have questions about this). No matter how compelling your case may be, if it exceeds the two-year period of time, you won’t be able to recover compensation for the damages sustained. Because of this, it’s important not to wait any longer than necessary to get legal help with your case. Putting off your claim will make it extremely difficult to obtain just compensation.
Before making any decisions about whether to work with a personal injury attorney, you need to understand if a settlement with the insurance companies has been finalized. If settlement negotiations are still ongoing, a lawyer can step in and potentially negotiate a better settlement offer on your behalf. On the other hand, if the insurance company has settled the case already, a lawyer may not be able to continue on your behalf. In either situation, having an experienced lawyer review your case and advise you of the best course of action can make a difference in your chances of receiving fair compensation.
Finally, are you seeking compensation for any damages suffered? It’s important to understand that receiving the compensation you deserve is a process that requires commitment from both parties — from your lawyer and yourself. In some cases, the maximum outcome possible may require filing a lawsuit and going to trial. In this situation, it’s wise to make sure you have an experienced Houston personal injury lawyer fighting for your rights. It’s also critical to ensure that, if the case does go to trial, you’re prepared to see it out through the end.
When to Hire a Personal Injury Attorney
Based on the situations and questions laid out above, when is the right time to visit a personal injury law firm? If you said yes to any of the above questions then it’s likely time to hire an attorney. However, here are a few clear-cut situations in which it makes sense to speak with a specialized attorney in Houston.
Disputed Liability
When it comes to disputed liability in injury cases, it is extremely important to talk to a lawyer as soon as possible to successfully prove that your injuries were caused by someone else’s mistakes, negligence, or wrongdoing. This will help you receive the proper compensation for your suffering as soon as possible. In many cases, the other party may try to deny responsibility. This is when having an experienced attorney on your side can be invaluable. Likewise, an attorney can provide essential legal guidance on how to gather evidence that can establish liability
Contributory Negligence
If other parties suspect contributory negligence, it’s in your best interest to hire a personal injury attorney. This way, the attorney can provide an effective defense to make sure you aren’t unfairly held liable. When might this apply? Let’s say that you got into an auto accident. If the other driver’s insurance company accuses you of going too fast while riding a motorcycle and causing the accident. Typically, they’ll make this claim to reduce their costs and, in this case, it would be unwise to face this alone without legal representation Depending on the judge’s decision, sustained contributory negligence could lead to only getting a percentage of the claim instead of its full amount. Having an attorney from the start could ensure that you’re maximally compensated for your damages and losses.
Multiple Parties
In a personal injury litigation involving multiple parties, hiring a personal injury lawyer can help quite a bit. Multiple-party claims can be complex and often involve:
Medical negligence
Construction site accidents
Multiple vehicle collisions
Truck accidents
Product liability cases
The presence of multiple defendants adds an extra layer of complication to the case. This is why you might need the help of an experienced lawyer. They’ll be equipped with the knowledge and expertise to build a strong case for you in these situations. With multiple parties involved in the dispute over who is at fault for your injuries, it can provide you with peace of mind to have an experienced attorney taking care of your rights and interests throughout the legal process.
Traumatic Injury or Permanent Disability
No one wants to think about getting injured and needing a personal injury attorney, but if it happens, it’s important to act quickly. If you have suffered traumatic injuries or are permanently disabled due to someone else’s negligence, you should hire a personal injury lawyer right away. When traumatic injuries occur, the settlement is usually high-dollar. Insurance companies are eager to lower the costs associated with these claims. But with an experienced lawyer on your side, you can maximize the amount of compensation you receive and make sure all damages are accurately documented. Is this that big of a deal, though? Honestly, yeah. Depending on your age, disability, and other variables, future damages resulting from those injuries can add up to a massive amount across your lifetime. This is why it’s important to seek help from a personal injury lawyer. As best personal injury lawyers, they’re specialized in calculating the long-term effects of traumatic injuries. This includes consulting you regarding medical expenses or lost wages. To make sure you’re getting what is owed to you, these attorneys can even hire experts like medical or financial professionals who are familiar with the nature of traumatic injuries.
Insurance Company Issues
Are you having issues with the insurance company after being involved in an accident? If so, it’s probably time to hire a personal injury lawyer. Your lawyer can help you understand your rights and get the financial compensation you deserve. An attorney will have the knowledge and resources needed to negotiate a settlement on your behalf, whether that means going to court or engaging with opposing counsel outside of court. They’ll also be able to ensure that they handle your case in the best possible way. They’ll do so while advocating for your legal rights, too.
Government Organizations
Finally, when it comes to bringing a personal injury claim against the government, it’s in your best interest to hire a personal injury attorney right away. Governments may have immunity from liability under certain circumstances. However, you still need an experienced lawyer who can help you through the process.
|This holds especially true for train accidents, bus accidents, car accidents, or subway accidents. You must allow a qualified attorney to assess the situation. Let them handle everything promptly. If not, your chances of filing successful claims greatly decrease.
Tips for Hiring a Personal Injury Attorney
You’re so close to hiring an attorney now. However, it’s important to ensure you’re hiring the best personal injury lawyer in Houston for the job. Speaking to a few local lawyers can help you get a feel for who might be a good fit. You can also use these helpful tips when hiring an accident attorney.
Communication
When finding great houston personal injury attorneys, great communication should be one of the main criteria you are looking for. Why? Having an attorney with great communication skills is essential to ensure that they’ll manage your case efficiently. Your attorney must be able to respond quickly and accurately to questions about your case. They should also know how to present evidence satisfactorily in legal proceedings. Furthermore, great communication allows the attorney to keep abreast of any changes in the laws or regulations related to your case. Ultimately, when hiring your injury attorney, great communication is paramount. In the end, it can make or break your case.
Cost
Next, it’s helpful to consider the cost of hiring an attorney in Houston. Forgoing a cost assessment can cost you dearly in the long run. Does this mean you should look for the cheapest option? Actually, no. While some legal services may cost more upfront, they may offer cost-saving benefits down the line. A good attorney familiar with your case will be able to advise you on the most cost-effective way to proceed while ensuring they are providing quality representation. Although you should consider hourly rates, many circumstances warrant a flat fee. This allows you to avoid high-hourly surprises down the road.
Expertise
It’s also helpful to look at the attorney’s experience and areas of expertise. After all, an attorney with extensive experience in injury cases can better understand the laws associated with your case. This means they should be able to represent you more successfully than someone without relevant experience. It’s also helpful if your attorney has handled similar cases. They might have personal injury experience, sure. But do they have experience with dog bites or semi-truck accidents, for example? If they do, it means they can anticipate potential issues. They can also use their prior knowledge to overcome those issues.
Professional Network
It’s important to find a personal injury lawyer who has strong connections in the legal and medical fields. Having strong ties to expert legal professionals, doctors and other medical professionals can greatly benefit your case. This is because the lawyer will be able to get quality advice on the best approach for your claim. Ultimately, having a strong network to rely on can make a significant difference in your case. In some cases, it helps facilitate better communication between you and the attorney. Ultimately, this leads to better outcomes for both parties.
Client Reviews
Finally, reading client reviews is an important step when choosing Houston personal injury lawyers. It can be difficult to find the right legal representation that is familiar with personal injury law. So, it’s important to read as much as possible about someone before making a decision. Client reviews can provide valuable insight that will help you make an informed decision. They often go beyond a simple rating system and provide detailed first-hand accounts of their experiences with the attorney. A lawyer who comes highly recommended by former clients speaks volumes about their:
Professionalism
Successful results
Reliability
For these reasons, reading client reviews should be one of your top priorities. If they don’t have any available, ask to see some. If they can’t provide you with any then you might want to reconsider.
What Happens When You Hire a Personal Injury Attorney?
By now, you’re pretty in the know about what a Houston personal injury lawyer can do for you. You also know what to look for before hiring one. But, what happens when hiring a Texas personal injury attorney? The process looks slightly different depending on your case. However, you can usually expect some version of the following.
Consultation
During a consultation with a personal injury lawyer, you should expect a thorough evaluation of the facts surrounding your case. The consultation allows for an attorney to gain an understanding of not only the facts of the case but also any damages that could potentially be recovered. This includes medical expenses and lost wages from time away from work.
That means this consultation can be pretty in-depth. So, you must bring any documents or records related to the accident or incident. Ultimately, it’s helpful to attend the consultation as prepared as possible. It’s where an attorney can best advise you on whether you have a valid personal injury claim.
Retainer
Assuming you plan on working with injury attorneys, the next step would likely be to pay a retainer. The legal retainer gives the attorney access to legal resources to investigate and research your claim. It covers legal services such as:
Speaking with witnesses
Obtaining documents
Preparing legal filings
Appearing at hearings
Handling legal correspondence
Other tasks necessary for your legal defense
Likewise, paying a retainer also allows injury attorneys to block out time from their calendars to focus exclusively on your case.
Gather Documentation
When you pursue a personal injury litigation, the research phase is paramount to success. During this period, your attorney gathers proper documentation to support your claim. This could involve gathering medical reports, police reports, photographic evidence, and eyewitness statements that show how the incident occurred and demonstrate how it has impacted your life. Your attorney will also look at any prior legal precedents that could be beneficial to your case. All in all, the research phase is vital as it gives your lawyer all the documents and facts they need to build a strong court case.
Negotiations
The negotiation phase of a injury case is the time for both sides to discuss and agree to the details of any settlement. After both parties have examined the evidence, each will state its position regarding who is at fault. They’ll also decide how much money should be offered as a settlement. Throughout the negotiation, both sides may make counterarguments to settle on compensation. A negotiation can include just two parties. Or, it can involve multiple legal counsels and other parties such as insurance companies. With an experienced attorney’s help, you can review settlement offers carefully. With their help, you can also decide if they are fair before accepting them. If you can’t reach an agreement then the case might go to mediation or trial. In that situation, your attorney will prepare you for what to expect.
Get a Consultation With a Houston Personal Injury Attorney
At O’Hara Law Firm, we’re here to help you get the compensation you deserve. Houston personal injury lawyer Mr. O’Hara has decades of experience and is certified in the personal injury trial law. He understands that every injury case is unique and requires a personalized approach. Our goal is always to provide justice to our clients, which is why we encourage anyone dealing with a personal injury to get in touch today for personalized advice from our team. We’ll work to listen, answer your questions, and make sure you understand your rights and options throughout the process. Ready to chat about your case? Get in touch here for a free consultation.
HOUSTON PERSONAL INJURY ATTORNEY
Did you know that, according to the Bureau of Justice Statistics, just 3% to 4% of personal injury cases go to trial? While this is a promising statistic, you don’t need to be headed to trial to benefit from hiring Houston personal injury attorneys. If you’ve suffered an injury in Houston, you may be wondering if hiring a personal injury attorney is the right way to go. It can certainly seem daunting and overwhelming. After all, your life has been flipped upside down by an unexpected accident or incident.
All in all, hiring the best possible personal injury law firm can often make it easier for you to navigate complex insurance claims and other paperwork associated with seeking justice for injuries. A good lawyer who specializes in handling the case not only takes some of the burdens out of pursuing justice but gives you peace of mind that every avenue will be explored on your behalf. So, let’s analyze when might be the right time to find a good attorney.
Different Types of Personal Injury Cases
Before you contact a Houston personal injury attorney for injury cases, it is important to understand the types of injuries you may have and the types of claims that can be made. So, let’s start from the beginning. A personal injury case involves physical or emotional harm caused by another person, company, government agency, or other entity. There are different types of personal injury case such as medical malpractice, car accidents, defective products, and premises liability cases. All involve trying to recoup damages from the responsible party. Looking into the types of the personal injury case and the personal injury law, before contacting a lawyer can make it easier to receive proper legal advice. This will also help you accurately assess your situation. With this background knowledge, you’ll understand how your lawyer is approaching your case and determine if an offer is fair to get the best outcome for you.
Car Accidents
Before you contact a personal injury law firm for a motor vehicle accident, it is important to understand the types of injuries you may have and the types of claims that can be made. So, let’s start from the beginning. A Personal injury case involve physical or emotional harm caused by another person, company, government agency, or other entity. There are different types of personal injury cases such as medical malpractice, car accidents, defective products, and premises liability cases. All involve trying to recoup damages from the responsible party. Looking into the types of l injury cases before contacting a lawyer can make it easier to receive proper legal advice. This will also help you accurately assess your situation. With this background knowledge, you’ll understand how your lawyer is approaching your case and determine if an offer is fair to get the best outcome for you.
Product Liability
Product liability injury cases involve product-related accidents and injuries. These cases occur when someone is injured due to a product defect from a product they were either buying, using, or otherwise exposed to. The product can be anything from toys, medications, prescription drugs, vehicles, and more. In product liability injury cases, product manufacturers, designers, and distributors are held liable for the defect that resulted in a person’s injury. Victims of these cases must prove their injuries were due to product defects for them to successfully gain damages in court, though. That’s why it’s best to hire a team of experienced lawyers and gather ample evidence to show proof of the product’s fault.
Medical Malpractice
Medical malpractice cases refer to medical negligence when medical professionals fail to provide a certain standard of care. Victims of medical malpractice may be able to pursue legal action against the guilty medical professional or institution. This means that an individual can sue for medical malpractice if the medical care rendered was not up to the expected medical standard and because of this careless act, their injuries were sustained or worsened significantly. This type of legal claim is taken very seriously, as medical malpractice could have detrimental effects on victims’ quality of life as well as financial hardship.
Wrongful Death
A wrongful death case is a legal claim brought to court when an individual dies as the result of another person’s wrongful action. Wrongful deaths can arise from a wide array of circumstances including:
Automobile and workplace accidents
Medical malpractice
Criminal behavior
Product defects
Motor vehicle accidents
Car accident
What’s the desired outcome of a wrongful death case? In some cases, a great outcome could mean seeking compensation for medical bills expended before the wrongful death, as well as other costs such as funeral expenses. Many wrongful death cases also seek punitive damages. These are meant to punish wrongdoers and act as a deterrent in future situations involving accidents resulting in a wrongful death.
Workplace Accidents
Workplace accident injury cases center around accidents that result in serious injuries or illnesses. It doesn’t matter whether or not the workplace is at fault for those mishaps. These workplace incidents cover a broad range of situations, including:
Negligent workplace behavior
Incorrect workplace practices and working situations
Not supplying the correct safety equipment
Businesses need to be aware of accidents and the ways they can cause harm to employees. This ensures they can maintain proper workplace conditions. However, this isn’t always possible. Not every business has a compliance department and is familiar with personal injury law. Whether the injury occurred due to negligence or another party’s wrongful act, workers in such a situation can seek compensation for any costs associated with their injury. This includes medical bills and lost wages.
Animal Bites & Attacks
Animal bite injury cases are civil matters which occur when a person is harmed due to an animal bite or attack. These cases can be complex, as there is often controversy surrounding animal ownership, negligence, and animal behavior. For example, an animal bite personal injury case can involve:
Trying to prove who the animal’s owner is
Whether the animal had previously attacked someone
If the animal was handled or contained correctly
Depending on the nature of the animal bite injury and the entity at fault, victims often file lawsuits to receive compensation for medical bills, pain and suffering, lost wages due to missed time from work, and more. Because they’re somewhat complex, dog bite attorney assistance is usually necessary for animal bite injury cases for people to receive proper compensation for their injuries.
Premises Liability
Premises liability is a legal term that refers to the responsibility of property owners to ensure the safety of guests while they are on the premises. People who suffer injury as a result of negligence or hazardous conditions on someone else’s property may be eligible for premises liability compensation. To establish premises liability in a legal case, you have to prove that the business or premises owner should have been aware of the hazard or condition. You also have to prove that they failed to take reasonable steps to prevent harm from coming to visitors. If you can prove these criteria, both the property owner and any other liable parties could be held responsible for damages.
Slip & Fall Accidents
Finally, the last major type of personal injury case is a slip and fall case. A slip and fall legal case is a form of personal injury lawsuit where the claimant alleges that they suffered a serious injury due to treacherously maintained property. This type of legal claim is based on the concept of, well, premises liability. This states that property owners must keep their properties reasonably safe for people using them in any way. If a person is injured by slipping or falling as a result of negligently maintained conditions on the premises (such as wet surfaces or hazardous objects that do not appear obvious) then they may be able to pursue damages against the responsible party. If you’ve been injured, however, we know it can be quite difficult to prove this. In that case, it helps to hire a personal injury lawyer.
What Does a Personal Injury Attorney Do?
Now that you’re a little more aware of the different types of personal injury cases, it’s helpful to understand how personal injury lawyers could help you with your case. How exactly would a Houston personal injury lawyer help you? What kinds of job responsibilities do they have when it comes to personal injury cases specifically? Here are some basic responsibilities of most houston personal injury lawyers.
Investigate Claims
An accident lawyer not only help victims recover damages for medical expenses, but they also investigate claims to hold the responsible parties accountable for any consequences that have occurred.
Personal injury lawyers go through meticulous steps to fully understand how and why the personal injury happened, so they can work to ensure their client receives fair compensation. They look into all necessary documentation and witness statements about the accident or incident, reviewing all possible details that could be relevant in court proceedings.
This means that information collected by personal injury lawyers is invaluable. After all, they’ll often use it in court as evidence to support a claim of negligence against a party responsible for personal injuries suffered by their client.
Gather Evidence
Likewise, Houston personal injury lawyers can be an invaluable asset when seeking a fair settlement from an insurance company following an injury. They’re experienced in determining which evidence is most important and relevant to win a houston personal injury case. These Houston injury attorneys will help you gather the necessary paperwork such as:
Medical records
Accident reports
Workplace records
Personal financial documents
Eyewitness accounts
Additionally, best personal injury lawyers will:
Speak with experts about your case
Investigate other potential parties for liability
Intervene with insurance companies on your behalf
Negotiate settlements
Having the best personal injury lawyer at your side during this time can help ensure that your rights are protected. They’ll also help you receive full compensation for any injuries sustained due to negligence or malicious intent.
Negotiate with Insurance Companies
Have you tried to negotiate with the insurance company on your own? If so, you’ve likely found that it’s difficult, to say the least. When you negotiate on your own, the insurance companies can take advantage of the situation and try to settle for a lower amount than what you are entitled to. With an experienced personal injury attorney by your side, you can protect yourself from this and negotiate for fair compensation. Additionally, an accident lawyer has experience in understanding the complexities of legal contracts and claims which adds significant weight to negotiating with insurance companies. They also know how much money you should receive to cover bills, long-term care costs, lost wages, and more. Overall, hiring a personal injury attorney is important if you wish to get the best outcome during negotiations with insurance companies.
Send Demand Letters
A demand letter is a document sent to an insurance company or at-fault party in a personal injury litigation. It usually outlines the victim’s damages and the amount of financial compensation being requested. It is an important part of the negotiation process and helps both parties come to a resolution outside of court. You need to carefully construct demand letters. They should include all relevant details about the accident, including medical treatment and bills for services rendered. This can help convince an insurance company or at-fault party to settle before proceeding with more costly litigation. However, you don’t have to go at this alone. An experienced Houston personal injury lawyer can write one for you.
Prepare Pleadings
Personal injury attorneys can help you prepare pleadings for a case by researching and utilizing the facts surrounding the legal situation. They’re experienced in navigating court proceedings. So, they know which pleadings they need to draft and file to present their case successfully. What does this involve? Namely, a personal injury attorney will advise you on what steps to take. They’ll also use legal arguments to make during negotiation and litigation. Additionally, a great Houston personal injury lawyer will ensure that your pleadings are in line with applicable laws and legal precedents. This ensures that you have a better chance at success in your case.
Conduct Discovery
The discovery process in a personal injury litigation involves gathering evidence and information that supports or disproves an argument. During the discovery process, an accident lawyer may:
Take depositions
Request production of documents
Conduct interrogatories
Having a personal injury attorney who understands this process can be invaluable. An attorney can help you:
Navigate the complexities of the personal injury claim
Ensure all relevant information is gathered
Protect your rights as a client
Help secure a fair resolution to the case In addition, good attorneys also have access to helpful resources during the discovery period. This includes access to experts who can evaluate evidence and help illustrate how much compensation should be sought after.
Represent Clients at Trial
Finally, hiring Houston personal injury lawyers after you’ve been injured or have had a personal accident can be a big help if the case goes to trial. They’ll be able to:
Lout for your best interests
Fight for fair compensation
Help guide you through any court proceedings
A personal injury attorney specializing in injury cases will also have connections to medical experts. During a trial, these experts can provide facts and evidence that are critical to your claim’s success. All in all, when hiring Houston personal injury lawyers, you gain access to skills, knowledge, and resources that would otherwise be unavailable to represent yourself in court.
Do You Need a Personal Injury Attorney?
With the above-mentioned skills in mind, do you need to hire a personal injury attorney? We’ll be honest about the fact that, more often than not, an experienced attorney can help. However, that’s not always the case. To determine whether or not hiring a Houston personal injury attorney is right for you, ask yourself the following questions.
While this might seem obvious, the first question is to determine if you had an accident or were the victim of some sort of negligence. Personal injury attorneys specialize in handling claims that are related to accidents resulting to , so if your case falls into one of the categories above, it’s recommended that you reach out to a lawyer for professional advice. An experienced attorney can help you determine if your situation warrants legal action and if so, they can provide the guidance and representation needed to get you the best possible outcome. The bottom line? Consider speaking with an experienced lawyer if you were in an accident and need advice on how to proceed.
Next, to determine if you need an accident lawyer that specializes in personal injury law, it’s important to assess the severity of your injury. For example, is the injury considered serious? This could include injuries such as:
Broken bones
Traumatic brain injuries
Back injuries
Severe burns
Loss of an arm or leg
Vision loss or blindness
Internal organ damage
If so, then it would be wise to enlist the help of an experienced lawyer. Detailed and complex cases such as these often require extensive knowledge and expertise to pursue them effectively and obtain great results.
Receiving medical treatment following an accident is an important factor to consider if you’re considering seeking legal help. Insurance companies may argue that your injury wasn’t caused by the accident or that you delayed treatment, which impacted the cost of your injury. That’s why it’s essential to seek medical help right away as soon as you experience an injury. If you haven’t received any medical treatment, it can still be possible to file a claim. However, seeking medical help should be a priority in this situation. The bottom line here? If you’ve been injured in Houston due to someone else’s negligence, it’s important to find a Houston personal injury lawyer who can review your medical records and consult expert witnesses to build the strongest case possible. Failing to receive timely, appropriate medical care for your injuries could mean losing out on full compensation for your losses.
Another one of the main questions to ask when determining who is at fault for your injury is who was responsible for the accident. If someone else was negligent in their actions, then you may be able to seek compensation for your injuries. However, it can be difficult to prove who caused the accident and who should be held liable without a personal injury lawyer. That’s why engaging with a Houston personal injury lawyer who specializes in such cases might be the best choice. They have the resources and experience necessary to investigate who is liable and deliver the results needed to seek appropriate compensation for the injury caused by another person’s negligence.
Next, you’ll want to consider how much time has passed since the accident. This is because, in Texas, there is a two-year statute of limitations (see Texas Civil Practice and Remedies Code § 16.003(a) for filing a lawsuit if you have questions about this). No matter how compelling your case may be, if it exceeds the two-year period of time, you won’t be able to recover compensation for the damages sustained. Because of this, it’s important not to wait any longer than necessary to get legal help with your case. Putting off your claim will make it extremely difficult to obtain just compensation.
Before making any decisions about whether to work with a personal injury attorney, you need to understand if a settlement with the insurance companies has been finalized. If settlement negotiations are still ongoing, a lawyer can step in and potentially negotiate a better settlement offer on your behalf. On the other hand, if the insurance company has settled the case already, a lawyer may not be able to continue on your behalf. In either situation, having an experienced lawyer review your case and advise you of the best course of action can make a difference in your chances of receiving fair compensation.
Finally, are you seeking compensation for any damages suffered? It’s important to understand that receiving the compensation you deserve is a process that requires commitment from both parties — from your lawyer and yourself. In some cases, the maximum outcome possible may require filing a lawsuit and going to trial. In this situation, it’s wise to make sure you have an experienced Houston personal injury lawyer fighting for your rights. It’s also critical to ensure that, if the case does go to trial, you’re prepared to see it out through the end.
When to Hire a Personal Injury Attorney
Based on the situations and questions laid out above, when is the right time to visit a personal injury law firm? If you said yes to any of the above questions then it’s likely time to hire an attorney. However, here are a few clear-cut situations in which it makes sense to speak with a specialized attorney in Houston.
Disputed Liability
When it comes to disputed liability in injury cases, it is extremely important to talk to a lawyer as soon as possible to successfully prove that your injuries were caused by someone else’s mistakes, negligence, or wrongdoing. This will help you receive the proper compensation for your suffering as soon as possible. In many cases, the other party may try to deny responsibility. This is when having an experienced attorney on your side can be invaluable. Likewise, an attorney can provide essential legal guidance on how to gather evidence that can establish liability
Contributory Negligence
If other parties suspect contributory negligence, it’s in your best interest to hire a personal injury attorney. This way, the attorney can provide an effective defense to make sure you aren’t unfairly held liable. When might this apply? Let’s say that you got into an auto accident. If the other driver’s insurance company accuses you of going too fast while riding a motorcycle and causing the accident. Typically, they’ll make this claim to reduce their costs and, in this case, it would be unwise to face this alone without legal representation Depending on the judge’s decision, sustained contributory negligence could lead to only getting a percentage of the claim instead of its full amount. Having an attorney from the start could ensure that you’re maximally compensated for your damages and losses.
Multiple Parties
In a personal injury litigation involving multiple parties, hiring a personal injury lawyer can help quite a bit. Multiple-party claims can be complex and often involve:
Medical negligence
Construction site accidents
Multiple vehicle collisions
Truck accidents
Product liability cases
The presence of multiple defendants adds an extra layer of complication to the case. This is why you might need the help of an experienced lawyer. They’ll be equipped with the knowledge and expertise to build a strong case for you in these situations. With multiple parties involved in the dispute over who is at fault for your injuries, it can provide you with peace of mind to have an experienced attorney taking care of your rights and interests throughout the legal process.
Traumatic Injury or Permanent Disability
No one wants to think about getting injured and needing a personal injury attorney, but if it happens, it’s important to act quickly. If you have suffered traumatic injuries or are permanently disabled due to someone else’s negligence, you should hire a personal injury lawyer right away. When traumatic injuries occur, the settlement is usually high-dollar. Insurance companies are eager to lower the costs associated with these claims. But with an experienced lawyer on your side, you can maximize the amount of compensation you receive and make sure all damages are accurately documented. Is this that big of a deal, though? Honestly, yeah. Depending on your age, disability, and other variables, future damages resulting from those injuries can add up to a massive amount across your lifetime. This is why it’s important to seek help from a personal injury lawyer. As best personal injury lawyers, they’re specialized in calculating the long-term effects of traumatic injuries. This includes consulting you regarding medical expenses or lost wages. To make sure you’re getting what is owed to you, these attorneys can even hire experts like medical or financial professionals who are familiar with the nature of traumatic injuries.
Insurance Company Issues
Are you having issues with the insurance company after being involved in an accident? If so, it’s probably time to hire a personal injury lawyer. Your lawyer can help you understand your rights and get the financial compensation you deserve. An attorney will have the knowledge and resources needed to negotiate a settlement on your behalf, whether that means going to court or engaging with opposing counsel outside of court. They’ll also be able to ensure that they handle your case in the best possible way. They’ll do so while advocating for your legal rights, too.
Government Organizations
Finally, when it comes to bringing a personal injury claim against the government, it’s in your best interest to hire a personal injury attorney right away. Governments may have immunity from liability under certain circumstances. However, you still need an experienced lawyer who can help you through the process.
|This holds especially true for train accidents, bus accidents, car accidents, or subway accidents. You must allow a qualified attorney to assess the situation. Let them handle everything promptly. If not, your chances of filing successful claims greatly decrease.
Tips for Hiring a Personal Injury Attorney
You’re so close to hiring an attorney now. However, it’s important to ensure you’re hiring the best personal injury lawyer in Houston for the job. Speaking to a few local lawyers can help you get a feel for who might be a good fit. You can also use these helpful tips when hiring an accident attorney.
Communication
When finding great houston personal injury attorneys, great communication should be one of the main criteria you are looking for. Why? Having an attorney with great communication skills is essential to ensure that they’ll manage your case efficiently. Your attorney must be able to respond quickly and accurately to questions about your case. They should also know how to present evidence satisfactorily in legal proceedings. Furthermore, great communication allows the attorney to keep abreast of any changes in the laws or regulations related to your case. Ultimately, when hiring your injury attorney, great communication is paramount. In the end, it can make or break your case.
Cost
Next, it’s helpful to consider the cost of hiring an attorney in Houston. Forgoing a cost assessment can cost you dearly in the long run. Does this mean you should look for the cheapest option? Actually, no. While some legal services may cost more upfront, they may offer cost-saving benefits down the line. A good attorney familiar with your case will be able to advise you on the most cost-effective way to proceed while ensuring they are providing quality representation. Although you should consider hourly rates, many circumstances warrant a flat fee. This allows you to avoid high-hourly surprises down the road.
Expertise
It’s also helpful to look at the attorney’s experience and areas of expertise. After all, an attorney with extensive experience in injury cases can better understand the laws associated with your case. This means they should be able to represent you more successfully than someone without relevant experience. It’s also helpful if your attorney has handled similar cases. They might have personal injury experience, sure. But do they have experience with dog bites or semi-truck accidents, for example? If they do, it means they can anticipate potential issues. They can also use their prior knowledge to overcome those issues.
Professional Network
It’s important to find a personal injury lawyer who has strong connections in the legal and medical fields. Having strong ties to expert legal professionals, doctors and other medical professionals can greatly benefit your case. This is because the lawyer will be able to get quality advice on the best approach for your claim. Ultimately, having a strong network to rely on can make a significant difference in your case. In some cases, it helps facilitate better communication between you and the attorney. Ultimately, this leads to better outcomes for both parties.
Client Reviews
Finally, reading client reviews is an important step when choosing Houston personal injury lawyers. It can be difficult to find the right legal representation that is familiar with personal injury law. So, it’s important to read as much as possible about someone before making a decision. Client reviews can provide valuable insight that will help you make an informed decision. They often go beyond a simple rating system and provide detailed first-hand accounts of their experiences with the attorney. A lawyer who comes highly recommended by former clients speaks volumes about their:
Professionalism
Successful results
Reliability
For these reasons, reading client reviews should be one of your top priorities. If they don’t have any available, ask to see some. If they can’t provide you with any then you might want to reconsider.
What Happens When You Hire a Personal Injury Attorney?
By now, you’re pretty in the know about what a Houston personal injury lawyer can do for you. You also know what to look for before hiring one. But, what happens when hiring a Texas personal injury attorney? The process looks slightly different depending on your case. However, you can usually expect some version of the following.
Consultation
During a consultation with a personal injury lawyer, you should expect a thorough evaluation of the facts surrounding your case. The consultation allows for an attorney to gain an understanding of not only the facts of the case but also any damages that could potentially be recovered. This includes medical expenses and lost wages from time away from work.
That means this consultation can be pretty in-depth. So, you must bring any documents or records related to the accident or incident. Ultimately, it’s helpful to attend the consultation as prepared as possible. It’s where an attorney can best advise you on whether you have a valid personal injury claim.
Retainer
Assuming you plan on working with injury attorneys, the next step would likely be to pay a retainer. The legal retainer gives the attorney access to legal resources to investigate and research your claim. It covers legal services such as:
Speaking with witnesses
Obtaining documents
Preparing legal filings
Appearing at hearings
Handling legal correspondence
Other tasks necessary for your legal defense
Likewise, paying a retainer also allows injury attorneys to block out time from their calendars to focus exclusively on your case.
Gather Documentation
When you pursue a personal injury litigation, the research phase is paramount to success. During this period, your attorney gathers proper documentation to support your claim. This could involve gathering medical reports, police reports, photographic evidence, and eyewitness statements that show how the incident occurred and demonstrate how it has impacted your life. Your attorney will also look at any prior legal precedents that could be beneficial to your case. All in all, the research phase is vital as it gives your lawyer all the documents and facts they need to build a strong court case.
Negotiations
The negotiation phase of a injury case is the time for both sides to discuss and agree to the details of any settlement. After both parties have examined the evidence, each will state its position regarding who is at fault. They’ll also decide how much money should be offered as a settlement. Throughout the negotiation, both sides may make counterarguments to settle on compensation. A negotiation can include just two parties. Or, it can involve multiple legal counsels and other parties such as insurance companies. With an experienced attorney’s help, you can review settlement offers carefully. With their help, you can also decide if they are fair before accepting them. If you can’t reach an agreement then the case might go to mediation or trial. In that situation, your attorney will prepare you for what to expect.
Get a Consultation With a Houston Personal Injury Attorney
At O’Hara Law Firm, we’re here to help you get the compensation you deserve. Houston personal injury lawyer Mr. O’Hara has decades of experience and is certified in the personal injury trial law. He understands that every injury case is unique and requires a personalized approach. Our goal is always to provide justice to our clients, which is why we encourage anyone dealing with a personal injury to get in touch today for personalized advice from our team. We’ll work to listen, answer your questions, and make sure you understand your rights and options throughout the process. Ready to chat about your case? Get in touch here for a free consultation.
PERSONAL INJURY ATTORNEYS IN HOUSTON, TEXAS
PATRICK O'HARA
Years of experience have taught Mr. O’hara that personal injury is just that — personal. Every case is different, and every person who gets hurt has different needs. That’s why he works on a case-by-case basis. Mr. O’hara offers a personalized approach to every client, but the overarching goal remains the same: to seek justice on behalf of his clients.
Because our approach changes on a case-by-case basis, various clients we've had on our law firm over the years see us in different ways. Some clients — for instance, those whose cases we've settled outside of court — tend to see us as efficient and knowledgeable in the personal injury trial law. Others — primarily those whose cases we've taken to trial — see us as aggressive and difficult to intimidate..
If you haven't guessed it already, our law firm is not afraid to take a case to trial. In fact, the courtroom is where we feel most at home, and according to several of our former colleagues, the place where we really shine. Call us now for a free consultation.
Throughout our careers, there have been many occasions in which it was our team on one side of the negotiation room and a full panel of insurance attorneys on the other. But we've never allowed such opposition to deter us or derail the case we're presenting.
PERSONAL INJURY
FROM CAR WRECKS TO DOG BITES. WE'RE HERE TO HELP
Our experience as best personal injury lawyers is versatile and far-reaching. We’ve handled simple, open-and-shut cases for slip and fall victims, complex injury cases involving large insurance companies, and everything in between.
If you’ve been injured due to a car accident, or someone else’s actions or negligence, please reach out to a personal injury lawyer in Houston, Texas. We’d like to hear the details of your situation and determine whether we can help you overcome the legal hurdles standing in your way. We offer a free consultation.
You May Be Hurt, But You're Far From Helpless. Let Us Fight ForYou.
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AUTOMOBILE ACCIDENT FATALITY
A driver ran a red light and broadsided the victim’s vehicle (attorneys’ fees and case expenses total $333,883.33).
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EMPLOYER'S NEGLIGENCE CAUSES DEATH OF ELDERLY MAN
An elderly man was killed as a result of his employer failing to warn and protect him from a dangerous product sold by the employer (attorneys’ fees and case expenses total $1,035,017.37).
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Big Or Small, Your Case Matters
Ambitious attorneys love taking on larger, more challenging cases as they progress in their careers. We’d like to say that we’re no exception, but that’s not entirely true. You see, we’ve sought out big, difficult cases from Day 1 of our careers.
Patrick’s first trial, in fact, was a very serious matter in which he represented a client suffering from mesothelioma. Despite the opponent having quite a bit more experience than he had at that point in time, he persevered and won the case for his client. We just can’t help it — standing up for clients in need is what we do, and we do it well.
We Don’t Cut Corners. We pride ourselves on overcoming complex legal obstacles, but we don’t want that to discourage you from calling if your case is on the other end of the spectrum. People facing even the simplest, most straightforward personal injury concerns have the right to work with an experienced attorney who’s looking out for their best interests — and that’s exactly what we provide.
So, whether your insurance company is giving you trouble or you’re looking to sue an internationally renowned drug company, don’t hesitate to give us a call for a free consultation.