Houston Car Accident Lawyers
Offering Legal Support to Car Accident Victims in Texas
Unfortunately, car accidents are common. Having a reputable car accident lawyer in Houston, TX can make a significant difference in such incidents. This is where Matthews & Associates steps in. We offer comprehensive legal guidance and representation in car accident cases, striving to stand by our clients every step of the way.
Matthews & Associates has contested against some of the world's largest insurance companies, automobile manufacturers, trucking companies, and medical corporations, striving always to secure maximum compensation for deserving injured parties. Our deep empathy for our clients is an enduring source of motivation, driving us to provide exceptional service and support consistently.
Call Matthews & Associates today at (888) 923-7001 or contact us online to schedule a meeting with our Houston car accident attorney!
We may file or settle a claim individually or as part of a group on a case-by-case basis.
Whether your claim is filed individually or as part of a group fighting the same defendant, our goal is always to provide each of our clients with individual attention.
Common Causes of Car Accidents
Car accidents materialize in many ways, yet some scenarios are more prevalent than others.
Some of the most common causes include:
- Distracted driving: This includes activities that divert attention from driving, such as talking or texting on your phone, eating and drinking, or fiddling with the stereo or navigation system.
- Speeding: Traveling above the speed limit is a common cause of car accidents as it reduces a driver's ability to steer safely around curves or objects in the roadway.
- Drunk driving: Consuming alcohol or drugs impairs a driver's ability to operate the vehicle safely, often leading to accidents.
- Reckless driving: This includes a range of traffic offenses, such as changing lanes without signaling, tailgating, and violating other traffic safety laws.
- Weather conditions: Adverse weather conditions such as rain, snow, fog, or ice can make roads slippery and visibility poor, leading to accidents.
- Running red lights or stop signs: Drivers who disregard traffic signals and fail to yield to oncoming vehicles, run red lights or ignore stop signs frequently cause accidents.
- Teenage drivers: Young and inexperienced drivers often cause accidents due to a lack of experience and judgment on the road.
Understanding the common causes of car accidents can help foster safe driving practices. Should you find yourself a victim of a car accident despite your best efforts, Matthews & Associates can assist you in navigating the legal complexities that follow.
Common Injuries in Car Accident Cases
Who Is Liable in a Car Accident Case?
When determining liability in a car accident case, it's essential to recognize that responsibility may not rest solely on the drivers involved. Multiple parties could potentially be held accountable.
For example, car manufacturers may be deemed liable if a defect in a vehicle contributed to an accident. Additionally, government agencies responsible for maintaining road conditions could be held accountable if inadequate maintenance contributed to a car accident.
Liability may also be allocated differently based on state-specific laws. In some states, comparative negligence is used to determine liability. This means that each party involved in the accident may bear a percentage of the responsibility, affecting the compensation the plaintiff may receive.
Other states have no-fault systems, in which each party involved in an accident seeks compensation from their insurance, regardless of fault.
In states that employ joint and several liability rules, a party who is only minimally at fault could be held entirely responsible for another's damages.
Understanding the complexities of liability in car accidents is crucial to achieving a fair outcome in your case. Our team at Matthews & Associates can guide you through the complicated process of seeking compensation for your losses. Our attorneys can offer invaluable insight into your state's unique laws and regulations, helping you navigate your claim and pursue the compensation you deserve.
What Compensation is Available in Car Accident Claims?
After a car accident, the financial aftermath can be overwhelming. From medical bills to lost wages and property damage, the costs can quickly add up. This is where compensation, also known as 'damages,' comes in. It's designed to cover these expenses and ease the financial burden. Damages are typically classified as economic, non-economic, or punitive. Seeking legal advice is crucial in ensuring you receive the compensation you deserve.
- Economic damages are quantifiable financial losses, encompassing medical bills, ongoing care expenses, lost earnings, and property damage.
- Non-economic damages, on the other hand, cover intangible losses such as pain and suffering, emotional distress, and loss of enjoyment of life.
Unlike economic and non-economic damages, punitive damages are not designed to compensate the victim for their losses. Instead, they serve primarily as punishment for the at-fault party, usually applied when their conduct has been particularly egregious or reckless. The intent is to deter such behavior in the future. It's critical to note that punitive damages are rarely awarded.
We're Ready to Fight For You!
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“Very informative and professional.”
- Lydia C.Very informative and professional. Answer thoroughly all my questions and concerns.
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“Always available & answers questions promptly.”
I've been working with Matthews & Associates for 2 years. I am impressed that the firm is always available and answers questions promptly. I am very satisfied with the services they provide and would recommend them.- Kweli Y. -
“Matthews & Associates is one of a kind.”
Matthews & Associates is one of a kind. They treat you with respect. They support you when needed. Plus they have locations in Texas and California with wonderful customer service. Bilingual service is always available.- Sorangel T. -
“Very professional from the beginning”
- Jeffrey E.Very professional from the beginning. always answered questions and had amazing follow through on insuring data submitted was accurate
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“Matthews and Associates are very informative. Kept me up to date on what was happening with my case.”
- Ron S.Matthews and Associates are very informative. Kept me up to date on what was happening with my case. They were always polite when they were talking to me. Very professional and polite.
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“They are so helpful, kind, and knowledgeable.”
I love these guys! They are so helpful, kind, knowledgeable, smart, and good with people. They answer all your questions and if they don't know the answer, it doesn't take them long to get you the answer! I wouldn't want anyone else to handle my suit. They are AWESOME!- Genie S.
Navigating Statutes of Limitations in Car Accident Cases
One of the most important legal aspects of a car accident is understanding the statute of limitations. This time limit is 2 years for car accidents in Texas. The countdown usually starts on the date of the accident, but in some cases, it may begin when injuries are discovered—such as internal injuries or conditions that take time to manifest.
Failing to file a claim within the required timeframe can result in losing the right to pursue compensation, regardless of the accident's severity or the clarity of fault. Specific exceptions to these rules exist, such as if the accident involved a minor, a government entity, or if the injured party was incapacitated for some time after the accident. These unique factors can shorten or extend the time to file a claim.
Because these deadlines can vary widely across the country and involve complicated rules, consulting with a lawyer as soon as possible is vital. The attorneys at Matthews & Associates can help clarify the specific deadlines relevant to your case, ensuring that your claim is filed promptly so you don’t lose the opportunity to seek compensation for your injuries and other damages.
Beware of Insurance Company Tricks & Tactics
Contact Our Houston Car Accident Attorneys Today
At Matthews & Associates, we go beyond handling auto accidents and take many cases, including auto recalls. We understand that every client's situation is unique and can involve varying levels of complexity. Our car accident lawyers are fully prepared to consult with you, providing the necessary information and guidance to determine your case's best course of action.
Contact Matthews & Associates today to meet with our Houston car accident lawyer!