What is the statute of limitations for a car accident claim in Texas?

The statute of limitations for car accident personal injury claims in Texas is two years from the date of the accident under Texas Civil Practice and Remedies Code § 16.003. For property damage claims, the same two-year deadline applies. If the injured person is a minor, the clock starts on their 18th birthday. Claims against government entities have shorter notice deadlines — sometimes as little as six months.

Do I have to accept the insurance company's first offer after a Texas car accident?

No. You are never required to accept an insurance company's first settlement offer. Initial offers are almost always lower than the full value of your claim. Once you sign a release, you permanently give up your right to seek additional compensation — even if you discover new injuries later. Consult with a Texas car accident attorney before signing anything.

Can I still recover compensation if I was partly at fault for the accident in Texas?

Yes, under Texas's modified comparative fault rule (Texas Civil Practice and Remedies Code Chapter 33). You can recover compensation as long as you are not more than 50% at fault. Your damages are reduced by your percentage of fault. For example, if you are 25% at fault and your total damages are $100,000, you recover $75,000. Insurance companies routinely inflate the victim's fault percentage — an experienced attorney can counter this.

What damages can I recover after a car accident in Texas?

Texas car accident victims can recover economic damages (past and future medical bills, lost wages, loss of earning capacity, property damage) and non-economic damages (pain and suffering, mental anguish, disfigurement, loss of enjoyment of life). In cases involving gross negligence — such as a drunk driver — exemplary damages may also be available under Texas Civil Practice and Remedies Code § 41.003.

What should I do if the other driver has no insurance in Texas?

Texas has a high uninsured motorist rate — in Hidalgo County, roughly 1 in 5 drivers carries no liability insurance. If you are hit by an uninsured driver, you may be able to recover through your own uninsured motorist (UM) or underinsured motorist (UIM) coverage. You may also sue the at-fault driver directly. An attorney can identify all available sources of recovery.

How much does a car accident lawyer cost in McAllen, Texas?

The Law Office of Chris Sanchez handles car accident cases on a contingency fee basis. There are no upfront fees. The attorney fee is a percentage of the settlement or verdict — typically 33% if the case settles before a lawsuit is filed, and up to 40% if litigation is required. If no compensation is recovered, there is no attorney fee.