The hustle and bustle of Houston is undeniable. It’s a city brimming with opportunity but also with the potential for accidents. A slip and fall on a wet sidewalk, a car accident on a busy freeway, or a dog bite on your morning walk – these are just a few scenarios that can leave you injured and facing unexpected medical bills, lost wages, and emotional distress.
2.8 million nonfatal workplace illnesses and injuries were reported in 2022 by private industry employers alone. The sheer volume of traffic and activity in Houston suggests a significant number of personal injury cases occur each year.
If you’ve been injured due to someone else’s negligence, you may be entitled to compensation. However, many people hesitate to pursue legal action due to common misconceptions surrounding personal injury cases. These myths can prevent individuals from seeking the help they deserve.
At Daniel Ogbeide Law, a Houston-based law firm with a proven track record, we understand the challenges you face after an injury. We’re dedicated to helping our clients navigate the complexities of personal injury law and secure the compensation they need to move forward.
In this blog post, we’ll debunk three of the most prevalent myths surrounding Houston personal injury cases. By dispelling these myths, we aim to empower you to make informed decisions about your legal options following a personal injury.
Myth #1: You Don’t Need a Personal Injury Lawyer
This is perhaps the most widespread misconception. While you technically can pursue a personal injury claim without legal representation, the process can be complex and daunting.
Insurance companies often have teams of lawyers working to minimize payouts, and navigating the legalities of gathering evidence, calculating damages, and negotiating a fair settlement can be overwhelming for someone unfamiliar with the legal system.
Here’s why a personal injury lawyer is crucial:
- Expertise in Personal Injury Law:Personal injury law is a specialized field with its own set of rules and procedures. A skilled lawyer understands the intricacies of negligence law, comparative fault, and damage calculations.
- Experience Negotiating with Insurance Companies:Insurance companies are in the business of minimizing payouts. An experienced attorney knows how to negotiate aggressively on your behalf to ensure you receive fair compensation.
- Gathering Evidence and Building Your Case:A strong case hinges on solid evidence. Your lawyer will help gather medical records, police reports, witness statements, and other documentation to support your claim.
- Handling Complexities:Personal injury cases can involve multiple parties, complex medical issues, and long-term consequences. Your lawyer will handle the legal complexities, allowing you to focus on your recovery.
Myth #2: All Personal Injury Cases Go to Court
While litigation is a possibility, most personal injury cases are settled out of court. A skilled attorney will explore all options, including negotiation with insurance companies, to reach a fair resolution. This saves time, reduces stress, and avoids the uncertainty of a courtroom battle.
However, if a fair settlement isn’t possible, your lawyer will be prepared to represent you in court and fight for the compensation you deserve.
Myth #3: You Can’t Sue if You Were Partially at Fault
Texas follows a modified comparative negligence rule. This means you can still recover compensation even if you were partially at fault for the accident. However, the amount of compensation you receive will be reduced based on your percentage of fault.
For example, if you’re found to be 20% at fault for a car accident, your total damage award would be reduced by 20%. So, if your total damages are $100,000, you would receive $80,000.
A personal injury lawyer can help determine the extent of your fault and ensure you receive the maximum compensation you’re entitled to under Texas law.
Don’t Let Myths Prevent You from Seeking Help
Being injured in an accident can be physically, emotionally, and financially draining. Don’t let common myths add to your burden. If you’ve been injured due to someone else’s negligence, you have rights.
At Daniel Ogbeide Law, we understand the complexities of personal injury cases and are committed to helping you navigate the legal process with compassion and expertise. Contact us today at (832) 345-1988 to schedule a consultation.