Houston Car Accident Lawyer

When the fault of another driver causes a car accident in Houston, legal action may be taken to hold them responsible.

If you or a loved one has been involved in an accident involving injury, death or property damage, you should contact a Houston car accident attorney for legal advice. You may be entitled to compensation from the other driver and their insurance provider due to negligence.

With over $1 billion won for our clients, we will fight for you!

Houston car accident lawyer Jimmy Doan has decades of experience assisting the victims of motor vehicle collisions across the state of Texas.

Call today at (832) 835-0000 or fill out the online form to schedule your free initial consultation with an attorney at The Doan Law Firm after your crash.

Why Choose The Doan Law Firm After a Car Wreck in Houston?

• Attorney Jimmy Doan has been representing car accident and truck accident victims in Houston and throughout Texas for over 20 years. He has a reputation for achieving record settlements and verdicts with over $1 billion won for our clients.
• We prioritize customer service. We are friendly, personable and communicative attorneys. We are straight shooters who will always be honest about your case – the good, the bad and the ugly.
• Our phones are staffed with internal staff 18 hours a day. When you call about a car accident case, you will talk to a real person, not a calling service. We can sign up your case right away.
• Our Houston car accident lawyers don’t charge any fees for their services upfront. You will only pay your lawyer if and when you win your case.

Meet Car Accident Attorney Jimmy Doan

Founding attorney Jimmy Doan has spent most of his life in Houston. He is active in the local community and strives to represent injury victims with the integrity and dedication that they deserve. As a successful car accident lawyer in Houston, Mr. Doan is know for his straightforward communication, commitment to his clients, and fierce pursuit of fair compensation in every case he takes on. He strives to secure real results that have a positive impact on the lives of his clients.

Clients trust Mr. Doan to investigate their accident, handle negotiations with insurance companies, seek out qualified expert witnesses, and build a strong case on their behalf. He has the skill, experience, and dedication to handle a range of car accident cases for victims. Mr. Doan’s tireless pursuit of justice has led to him securing multiple significant settlements on behalf of collision victims.

Types of Car Accident Cases We Handle

Our Houston car accident lawyers have extensive experience handling all types of vehicle collisions throughout Texas. We understand that each type of accident presents unique challenges and requires specific legal strategies to secure maximum compensation for our clients.

Rear-End Collisions

Rear-end crashes are among the most common accidents on Houston roads such as 610, 45, and Beltway 8. These often occur when a driver follows too closely or fails to stop in time due to distraction or poor road conditions. While some consider rear-end collisions minor, they can cause serious injuries like whiplash, spinal cord damage, and traumatic brain injuries. Our firm has secured substantial settlements for victims of rear-end accidents, particularly those involving commercial vehicles or multiple cars.

Head-On Crashes

Head-on collisions are often catastrophic, accounting for a disproportionate number of traffic fatalities in Texas. These accidents typically occur when a driver crosses the centerline, drives the wrong way, or loses control of their vehicle. Common causes include drunk driving, fatigue, and distraction. We work with accident reconstructionists and medical experts to build strong cases that account for the severe injuries and long-term care needs often associated with head-on crashes.

T-Bone Accidents

Also known as side-impact collisions, T-bone accidents frequently occur at intersections when one driver fails to yield the right of way. These crashes are particularly dangerous because the sides of vehicles offer less protection than the front or rear. Our attorneys have extensive experience proving fault in T-bone accidents, often using traffic camera footage, witness statements, and expert testimony to establish liability.

Multi-Vehicle Crashes

Chain-reaction accidents and pile-ups present complex liability issues, as multiple parties may share responsibility for the crash. These accidents often occur on Houston’s busy highways and can involve both passenger vehicles and commercial trucks. Our legal team excels at investigating multi-vehicle accidents, determining each party’s liability, and pursuing compensation from all responsible parties.

Hit and Run Accidents

When a driver flees the scene of an accident, victims face unique challenges in recovering compensation. Our attorneys work closely with law enforcement to identify hit-and-run drivers and explore all possible sources of compensation, including uninsured motorist coverage. We’ve helped numerous hit-and-run victims secure compensation even when the at-fault driver cannot be located.

Drunk Driving Accidents

Accidents caused by drunk drivers resulted in over 1,505 fatalities on Texas roads in 2023. These cases often allow for additional punitive damages to punish the drunk driver’s reckless behavior. Our Houston drunk driving attorneys aggressively pursues maximum compensation in drunk driving cases, including potential claims against bars or restaurants that over-served the intoxicated driver under Texas dram shop laws.

Distracted Driving Accidents

With the rise of smartphones and in-car technology, distracted driving has become a leading cause of accidents in Houston. Texas law prohibits texting while driving, yet many drivers continue this dangerous behavior. We utilize cell phone records, social media activity, and other digital evidence to prove distracted driving cases and hold negligent drivers accountable.

Rideshare Accidents

Rideshare accidents involve complex insurance issues and multiple potential defendants. Whether you’re a passenger, another driver, or a pedestrian injured in a rideshare accident, different insurance policies may apply depending on the driver’s status at the time of the crash. Our attorneys understand the intricacies of Uber accident and Lyft accident claims and work to identify all available sources of compensation.

Each type of accident requires specific experience and legal knowledge to handle properly. Our Houston car accident attorneys have successfully represented victims of all these accident types, securing millions in compensation. If you’ve been injured in any type of vehicle collision, contact us for a free consultation to discuss your legal options.

Common Car Accident Injuries

Car accidents can cause devastating injuries that impact victims for months, years, or even a lifetime. Our Houston car accident attorneys have helped thousands of clients recover money for a wide range of serious injuries. Understanding the full extent and long-term implications of your injuries is crucial for securing fair compensation.

Traumatic Brain Injuries

Traumatic brain injuries (TBI) can occur even in seemingly minor accidents. The force of impact can cause your brain to collide with the inside of your skull, leading to bruising, bleeding, and tissue damage. Common symptoms include:

• Persistent headaches
• Memory problems
• Difficulty concentrating
• Changes in mood or personality
• Balance issues and dizziness
• Vision or hearing problems

These injuries often require extensive medical treatment and long-term rehabilitation. Our firm works with neurologists and life-care planners to ensure your settlement accounts for all future medical needs.

Spinal Cord Injuries

The violent forces in car crashes can cause devastating damage to the spinal cord. These injuries may result in:

• Partial or complete paralysis
• Loss of sensation
• Chronic pain
• Reduced mobility
• Loss of bodily functions
• Breathing difficulties

The lifetime cost of spinal cord injuries often exceeds millions of dollars. Our attorneys have extensive experience securing comprehensive compensation that covers medical care, home modifications, assistive devices, and long-term support services.

Whiplash

Whiplash occurs when your head and neck are rapidly thrown forward and backward during a collision. While insurance companies often try to minimize these claims, whiplash can cause serious, long-lasting symptoms:

• Neck pain and stiffness
• Shoulder and upper back pain
• Reduced range of motion
• Headaches
• Numbness in arms
• Sleep disturbances

We work with medical experts to document the full extent of your whiplash injuries and fight for compensation that reflects your actual suffering and recovery needs.

Broken Bones

The impact of a car crash can cause multiple fractures throughout the body. Common locations include:

• Ribs and sternum
• Arms and wrists
• Legs and ankles
• Facial bones
• Hip and pelvis
• Vertebrae

Some fractures require surgery, metal plates or screws, and extensive physical therapy. Our firm ensures your settlement covers all medical procedures, rehabilitation costs, and lost wages during recovery.

Internal Injuries

Internal injuries may not be immediately apparent after an accident but can be life-threatening. These injuries include:

• Organ damage
• Internal bleeding
• Ruptured spleen
• Collapsed lungs
• Liver lacerations
• Kidney damage

Prompt medical attention is crucial for internal injuries. Our attorneys work with medical professionals to document these serious injuries and secure compensation for emergency treatment and ongoing care.

Soft Tissue Injuries

Damage to muscles, ligaments, and tendons can cause chronic pain and limited mobility. Common soft tissue injuries include:

• Sprains and strains
• Tendon damage
• Muscle tears
• Rotator cuff injuries
• Knee ligament damage
• Back muscle injuries

While these injuries might not show up on X-rays, they can significantly impact your daily life and ability to work. We help document these injuries through medical evidence and expert testimony to ensure you receive fair compensation.

If you’ve suffered any of these injuries in a car accident, don’t let insurance companies minimize your claim. Our experienced attorneys understand the true impact of these injuries and will fight for the full compensation you deserve. Contact us today for a free case evaluation to discuss your case.

Want more specific information about any of these injury types or how we can help with your case? Call our office 24/7 to speak with an experienced car accident attorney.

Car Accident Compensation

After a car accident in Houston, you may be entitled to various types of compensation. Our attorneys work diligently to ensure you recover every dollar you deserve for your injuries and losses.

Medical Expenses

You deserve compensation for all accident-related medical costs, including:

• Emergency room visits and ambulance fees
• Hospital stays and surgeries
• Doctor appointments and specialist consultations
• Prescription medications
• Physical therapy and rehabilitation
• Medical devices and equipment
• Mental health counseling
• Diagnostic tests and imaging
• In-home medical care

Lost Wages

When injuries prevent you from working, we help recover compensation for:

• Missed work days and salary
• Lost overtime opportunities
• Missed bonuses and commissions
• Reduced earning capacity
• Lost benefits and paid time off
• Self-employment income losses
• Business opportunities missed
• Career advancement setbacks

Pain and Suffering

Non-economic damages compensate you for the physical and emotional impact of your injuries:

• Physical pain and discomfort
• Emotional distress and trauma
• Anxiety and depression
• Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)
• Loss of enjoyment of life
• Sleep disturbances
• Relationship difficulties
• Mental anguish
• Disfigurement and scarring

Property Damage

We ensure you receive full compensation for vehicle-related losses:

• Car repair or replacement costs
• Rental car expenses
• Personal property damaged in the crash
• Car seat replacement
• Custom vehicle modifications
• Diminished vehicle value
• Towing and storage fees
• Transportation costs during repairs

Future Care Costs

Our attorneys work with medical experts to calculate long-term expenses:

• Ongoing medical treatment
• Future surgeries and procedures
• Long-term rehabilitation needs
• Assistive devices and equipment
• Home modifications
• In-home care services
• Future medical complications
• Lifetime care needs for permanent disabilities

Insurance companies often try to minimize these costs and settle quickly for less than you deserve. Our experienced car accident attorneys thoroughly evaluate all current and future damages to ensure you receive maximum compensation for your injuries.

Don’t accept a settlement offer without understanding the full value of your claim. Contact our office today for a free consultation to discuss your case and learn how we can help secure the compensation you deserve.

We handle all cases on a contingency fee basis – you pay nothing unless we win your case.

Steps After a Car Accident

Taking the right actions immediately following a car accident can protect both your health and your legal rights. Our Houston car accident attorneys recommend following these crucial steps:

Seek Medical Attention

Never delay getting medical care after an accident, even if you feel fine initially. Many serious injuries, including whiplash, concussions, and internal injuries, may not show symptoms right away.

• Get emergency medical care if needed
• Visit a doctor within 24 hours of your accident
• Follow all treatment recommendations
• Keep all medical appointments
• Document all symptoms, no matter how minor
• Keep records of all medical visits and treatments

Report the Accident

Proper accident reporting creates an official record of the incident and is often required by law.

• Call 911 immediately if there are injuries
• Wait for police to arrive at the scene
• Provide accurate information to responding officers
• Request a copy of the police report
• Note the responding officers’ names and badge numbers
• Get the police report number before leaving

Document Everything

Thorough documentation strengthens your case and helps prove damages.

At the accident scene:

• Take photos of all vehicle damage
• Photograph the entire accident scene
• Get pictures of any visible injuries
• Collect witness names and contact information
• Exchange insurance and contact information with other drivers
• Note weather and road conditions

After the accident:

• Keep all medical bills and receipts
• Save repair estimates and bills
• Track missed work days and lost wages
• Document pain levels and daily limitations
• Save all accident-related correspondence

Don’t Speak to Insurance Companies

Insurance adjusters are trained to minimize payouts. Protect your rights by:

• Not giving recorded statements
• Not accepting initial settlement offers
• Not signing any documents
• Not discussing fault
• Not posting about the accident on social media
• Directing all communication through your attorney

Contact an Attorney

An experienced car accident attorney can protect your rights and help maximize your compensation.

Contact a lawyer immediately to:

• Preserve critical evidence
• Handle insurance communications
• Evaluate settlement offers
• Calculate full damages
• Meet legal deadlines
• Protect your rights

The sooner you contact an attorney, the better they can protect your interests. Our law firm offers free evaluations 24/7, and we can start working on your case immediately.

Remember: Insurance companies have teams of lawyers protecting their interests. You deserve experienced legal representation protecting yours.

Call our office now for a free case evaluation. Don’t let delays or mistakes compromise your right to fair compensation.

When Should You Hire a Houston Car Accident Attorney?

It can be confusing to understand when to hire an attorney after a vehicle accident occurs. Often, individuals think that the insurance claims process will go smoothly and that they can handle the situation on their own. However, insurance carriers can be notoriously difficult to deal with, and they will likely put up a fight from having to pay out fair compensation for your claim. 

We suggest at least speaking to an attorney for an initial consultation very soon after the incident occurs. After you are medically stable and the scene has cleared, one of your first phone calls should be to a skilled lawyer who can advise you about what to do next. An attorney can examine every aspect of your claim and help determine the best steps moving forward, including whether or not it would make sense for an attorney to take the case.

If you decide not to work with an attorney when you first start your claim with the insurance carrier but later realize that you may need some help in order for the claim to be successful, there is no problem contacting an attorney. You can call a lawyer anytime you feel pressure from the other parties or if you feel like you are not receiving a good deal. However, keep in mind that the earlier an attorney gets involved, the more likely your case will be successful earlier. We know how important it is that you receive the compensation you are entitled to as quickly as possible.

How Can a Houston Accident Attorney Help?

Attorneys with experience representing victims of automobile accidents can assist with recovering damages against the other driver. An experienced attorney will know the necessary elements which must be shown to be successful in a personal injury lawsuit. They will also be able to assess the strengths and weaknesses of your potential case to help you make an informed decision about your situation.

The court system is complex and requires all participants to comply with rules of evidence and procedure. Attorneys can make sure that your case complies with all of the rules. They will also make sure that the other driver and insurance companies likewise follow the rules.

Attorneys have experience negotiating settlement offers and presenting a case at trial if settlement negotiations fail. Car accident cases can involve technical aspects which require the careful attention to detail an experienced attorney can provide. An experienced attorney will know how to prepare for trial and effectively present your case to the judge or jury.

Who Pays for a Car Accident in Houston, Texas?

Determining who is responsible for paying for your crash requires an understanding of Texas’s insurance laws. There are two systems: fault and no-fault. All but 12 states use a fault law. Texas is in the majority as a fault-based or tort-based state. Under this insurance rule, after a car accident, the driver or party most at fault for causing the crash pays for the damage using his or her automobile insurance. All drivers in Texas are required to carry at least the following amounts of insurance:

• $30,000 in liability insurance for bodily injury per person
• $60,000 in liability insurance for bodily injury per accident
• $25,000 in coverage for property damage

This is what’s known as 30/60/25 coverage. Other types of insurance are optional for Texas drivers, such as uninsured and underinsured motorist insurance, collision coverage, and medical payments coverage. To receive benefits from another driver’s car insurance, you must prove that that driver is at fault for your crash using clear and convincing evidence. If someone other than a driver caused your crash, they may have to pay for your losses through their insurance, instead. Even when an accident is caused by a state or local government entity, our attorneys can help.

How Much Do Houston Auto Accident Lawyers Cost?

One of the main concerns you may have after a auto accident occurs is how you could possibly afford an attorney to help with your case. After all, most people think that attorneys are much too expensive to use on a regular basis. However, a personal injury lawyer at The Doan Law Firm will handle your claim on a contingency fee basis.

When an attorney takes a case on a contingency fee basis, this means that they will be the ones to handle all the upfront and out-of-pocket costs related to the vehicle accident. This includes covering the investigation, filing fees, any prep work, negotiations with insurance carriers, and preparing for a trial by jury if necessary. The personal injury victim doesn’t have to worry about any of these costs, and they will not even have to worry about legal fees until after their attorney successfully recovers the compensation they are entitled to. The attorney will collect an agreed-upon percentage out of the final settlement or jury verdict to cover the legal fees.

Top Causes of Houston Car Accidents

Determining the cause of your car accident in Houston is necessary before you can begin the claims process by filing a claim with the at-fault party’s insurance carrier. Most car accidents throughout Texas are avoidable. They happen when someone is negligent, or fails to use the right amount of care. Driver error is the number one cause of vehicle collisions in Houston, Texas. Common causes of car crashes include:

• Driving under the influence of drugs and alcohol
• Using a cell phone
• Violating traffic laws or roadway rules
• Speeding
• Drowsy driving
• Driving recklessly or aggressively
• Following too closely (tailgating)
• Ignoring rights-of-way
• Running red lights and stop signs
• Vehicle part breakdowns (tire blowouts, brake failure, etc.)
• Roadway defects, such as potholes
• FMCSA Violations

Once you determine the cause of your accident and identify the defendant, you or your lawyer will need to gather evidence proving that another party caused or significantly contributed to your accident with at least a 51 percent certainty. This is known as a preponderance of the evidence, and it is the burden of proof in all car accident cases in Texas. An attorney from The Doan Law Firm can help you meet this burden by collecting clear and convincing evidence immediately after your crash.

Areas We Serve

We serve all over Houston, TX, including:

Northside, Independence Heights, Central Northwest, Greater Fifth Ward, East Downtown, Central Business District, South Central Houston, Greater OST/South Union, Southwest Houston, Spring Branch East, The Memorial Villages, Briarforest, Chinatown, Mission Bend, Energy Corridor, Northwest Houston, Acres Homes, Aldine, East Aldine, East Houston, Jacinto City, Galeana Park, Deer Park, Southeast Houston, South Park, Greater Hobby Area, Hyde Park, Fourth Ward, Rice Military, Bellaire, South Main, Second Ward, Magnolia Park, Pearland, Friendswood, League City, Dickinson, La Marque, Texas City, Humble, Shady Acres, Jersey Village, Pasadena.

77084 – 77449 – 77057 – 77082 – 77070 – 77095 – 77086 – 77072 – 77083 – 77064 – 77099 – 77089 – 77396 – 77079 – 77071 – 77065 – 77092 – 77073 – 77077 – 77063 – 77450 – 77080 – 77091 – 77076 – 77388 – 77062 – 77085 – 77087 – 77074 – 77037 – 77094 – 77056 – 77045 – 77040 – 77060 – 77036 – 77075 – 77032 – 77024 – 77055

How Are Damages Determined?

Because every car accident is different, there is no set amount or formula to determine the amount of damages. Some damages can easily be identified, such as medical expenses and car repair costs. Other damages, such as pain and suffering, emotional distress, and disfigurement are more difficult to determine. An attorney can assess your situation and compare the damages you sustained to other cases to give you an idea of how much you may receive. Also, there are expert witnesses available who are able to place a monetary amount on these types of damages.

Sometimes insurance providers will agree to pay out damages on behalf of the other driver. While policies typically have limits on how much can be paid, sometimes an attorney can negotiate a fair settlement amount that the insurance provider will pay. Payment from the insurance company is beneficial because the payment is guaranteed and will not be delayed. In some cases, an attorney can arrange for quick resolution through this method.

Compensation Available for a Successful Motor Vehicle Accident Claim

You need compensation, and you need it as quickly as possible, but you need to receive the right amount. We encourage you to work with your attorney to understand the best route toward recovering compensation, which may or may not be a quick settlement with an insurance carrier. At The Doan Law Firm, our goal is to help clients recover both economic and non-economic damages after a car accident occurs in Houston.

Economic damages after a car accident are also referred to as special damages, and these are the calculable expenses victims will likely incur. When we say calculable, we refer to it this way because we can examine receipts, bills, and invoices to adequately add up the following:

• Emergency medical bills
• Any ongoing necessary medical treatment
• Property damage expenses
• Lost wages
• Rental vehicle costs
• Physical therapy or rehabilitation expenses

Non-economic damages after a vehicle accident in Houston revolve around more immeasurable expenses a victim will likely incur. We call these immeasurable because there are not necessarily any receipts or bills that can definitively show the extent of a person’s physical and emotional pain and suffering. However, there are court-accepted methods to calculate these damages, and we will do so on your behalf.

Filing a Lawsuit Against the At-Fault Driver

When most people think of vehicle accidents, they think of filing an insurance claim against the at-fault party’s insurance carrier. This is how most vehicle accident claims get resolved, but it may be necessary to file a lawsuit against the at-fault driver as well. In Texas, the personal injury statute of limitations is two years from the date an injury occurs, so a lawsuit must be filed against the other driver within this time frame, or the case will get dismissed.

Filing a lawsuit places the case in the civil court system, and the discovery process begins. Your attorney will exchange evidence with the other side (usually the attorneys for the at-fault party or the insurance carrier). Often, negotiations continue during the discovery process or during mediation before a trial becomes necessary. If a settlement still cannot be reached, the case will need to proceed forward to a trial.

Will You Have to Go to Court? Likely No!

There is a small chance you will have to go to court if you file a lawsuit against an at-fault party, but that is unlikely. In general, over 90% of cases are resolved through settlements with an insurance carrier. However, that does not necessarily mean the process will be easy. Insurance carriers will do what they can to limit how much compensation they pay out, and they may even deny a claim.

In the event the insurance carrier does deny the claim or if they refuse to pay a fair settlement offer, a lawsuit could lead to you having to appear in court, but there are various steps between filing the lawsuit and when a jury trial actually occurs. The case is often settled after more evidence comes to light or when all parties are able to see the evidence that will be used. In the event the case does indeed require a jury trial, you will have to go to court at that point.

Houston Car Accident FAQs

After getting into a car crash, you likely have questions about how the legal process will unfold over the coming weeks or months. We’ve answered some of the most commonly asked questions about car accident claims in Houston below. If you have a question that is not addressed here, please give our attorney a call. We’re happy to discuss the details of your specific case and help you explore your legal options.

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

In most cases, the statute of limitations for a car accident claim in the state of Texas is two years. However, there are exceptions to this general rule in some cases. It’s important to contact an experienced Houston car accident attorney as soon as possible so that you don’t risk losing your right to seek damages for injuries suffered.

Should I Provide a Recorded or Written Statement to an Insurance Company?

You should report any accident that occurs to your insurance company promptly, as there are often strict deadlines that need to be met to file an insurance claim. However, you do not need to give a written or recorded statement about the accident to an insurance adjustor immediately. In the aftermath of a crash, you may not immediately know the full extent of your injuries and do not want to understate the severity of your wounds by accident.

If your insurance company requests a recorded or written statement, refer them to your attorney. You should not agree to provide a written or recorded statement without consulting with your lawyer first.

Can I Acquire a Copy of My Police Report?

If the Houston Police Department was the agency that investigated your collision, you may request a copy of their accident report. You may also put in a request for a copy of a car accident report through the Crash Requests Information System, available through the Texas Department of Transportation.

Should I Accept the Initial Settlement Offer After My Accident?

If you choose to accept the initial settlement offer available after your crash, you will be required to sign a settlement agreement before receiving compensation. You will agree to release the insurance company, at-fault driver, and any other involved parties from future liability for your claim. In short, you will lose the ability to pursue a lawsuit against the responsible driver, even if your injuries are later deemed more serious than initially believed.

It is in your best interests to speak with an attorney before accepting a settlement offer. Although it may be tempting to collect on the immediately available settlement money, your case may be worth significantly more than what is initially offered. An initial consultation with our Houston car accident lawyer is free and does not obligate you to use our legal services.

The Doan Law Firm Can Help With Your Car Accident Case

The Houston personal injury attorneys at The Doan Law Firm have represented many victims of car accidents. They are familiar with the issues that commonly arise and the appropriate amount of damages in car accident lawsuits. If you are a victim of a car accident as a result of another driver, contact The Doan Law Firm to schedule a consultation. Their attorneys can review your case and provide advice about the likelihood of success in a claim against the other driver.