Guides by topic
What happens next
- At the first meeting, describe the incident, medical care and work you have missed. Identify any government agency, employer or medical provider involved so counsel can check special rules early.
- Counsel can identify witnesses, request preservation of records and compare the evidence about fault with the records showing how the injury affected you. You can discuss insurance coverage and how to handle requests from adjusters.
- Once the evidence and losses can be evaluated, discuss a settlement demand or filing suit to preserve the claim. A lawsuit can involve written questions, testimony under oath, mediation and, if needed, trial.
Timing and deadlines
Texas generally gives two years from accrual to sue for many personal injuries. Medical claims, workplace benefits, public defendants and other circumstances can change the deadlines. Under the Texas Tort Claims Act, notice is generally due within six months and a city may have a shorter valid notice period. Ask for a deadline review promptly, even while an insurer investigates.
Costs and payment
Ask for a written fee proposal that explains the lawyer’s fee, case expenses, who advances them and what you owe if there is no recovery. Before accepting any offer, request an estimate of what you would receive after fees, expenses and any medical reimbursement obligations.
How to prepare
- Keep original photos, video, messages and any report number. Write down names and how witnesses can be reached.
- Put bills, treatment dates, work restrictions, pay records and insurer correspondence in one place.
- Make a dated list of concrete changes, such as shifts missed or everyday tasks that now require help.
Questions and answers
Should I wait until I finish treatment to call?
You can make the first call while treatment continues. Counsel can check deadlines and preserve evidence while you and your medical providers learn more about your recovery.
Will the insurance claim protect my right to sue?
Opening a claim or discussing an offer usually does not stop the filing clock. Give counsel the incident date, policy, claim number and any written offers so they can identify deadlines separately.
What if the other side says I share fault?
In cases governed by Texas Chapter 33, assigned responsibility can reduce damages. A claimant assigned more than 50% generally cannot recover under that chapter. Photos, timelines and independent witnesses can matter when the accounts differ.
How long until I receive a payment?
There is no reliable estimate before the medical picture, insurance coverage and liability are understood. Ask what evidence is outstanding, what decision comes next, and which expenses or reimbursement claims would have to be resolved before any settlement funds are distributed.
What expenses come out of a settlement before I receive money?
Ask for a sample written breakdown showing the lawyer’s fee, case expenses, outstanding medical balances and any reimbursement claims. Ask whether the fee is calculated before or after costs and who pays expenses if there is no recovery.
I missed work but earn cash or change jobs frequently. What can I document?
Gather schedules, messages canceling shifts, deposit records or invoices you already have. List the missed dates and an employer or client who can confirm them. Keep estimates clearly separate from amounts you can verify.
What if I already had pain in the same part of my body?
Tell the lawyer and your treating clinician what you could do before the incident and what changed afterward. Identify earlier providers and give concrete examples, such as a full shift you used to work or stairs you could previously climb.
Let’s talk about your next step.
You don’t have to figure it out alone. Talk with Angel’s office about your concerns, upcoming dates and how the team can help.