Back and Neck Injury Attorneys Serving Houston, Texas

Suffering from a back or neck injury can significantly disrupt your life, encompassing everything from enduring constant pain to potentially facing financial hardship due to medical bills and lost wages. In Texas, just as in any other state, understanding the legal process is crucial for anyone considering pursuing a personal injury claim.  

Our legal team at Ellis & Thomas, PLLC, stands ready to fight on behalf of back and neck injury victims in Texas, aiming to equip you with the knowledge necessary to pursue justice and compensation.  

We proudly serve clients in Houston, Texas, and the surrounding areas. Schedule a free consultation today to get the comprehensive support you need during these tough times.  

Common Neck and Back Injuries After a Car Accident 

Car accidents can result in a variety of neck and back injuries, some of which may have long-lasting implications. It's important to recognize the different types of injuries one might sustain:
 

• Whiplash: Occurs due to the rapid back-and-forth movement of the neck, typical in rear-end collisions. Symptoms can include neck pain and stiffness, headaches, and dizziness. 

• Herniated Disc: This injury happens when one of the spinal discs is damaged, leading to nerve pain, numbness, or weakness in an arm or leg. 

• Spinal Cord Injury: A severe type of injury that can lead to permanent changes in strength, sensation, and other body functions below the site of the injury. 

• Compression Fractures: Small cracks or severe breaks in the bones of the spine, which can cause pain, decreased height, and a hunched posture. 

• Sprains and Strains: Injuries to muscles and ligaments in the back, often causing pain, swelling, and reduced flexibility. 

• Spondylolisthesis: This condition occurs when a vertebra slips out of place due to a stress fracture in the bone, potentially pressing on the nerves and causing pain. 

Texas Personal Injury Laws to Know

Texas personal injury laws are unique in several ways, affecting how victims should approach filing a claim: 

• Statute of Limitations: In Texas, the statute of limitations for personal injury claims is generally two years from the date of the injury. It's imperative to initiate legal proceedings within this timeframe to avoid forfeiting your right to compensation. 

• Comparative Negligence Rule: Texas follows a modified comparative negligence rule. If you're found to be partially at fault for your accident, your compensation will be reduced by your percentage of fault, as long as it is less than 51%. If you're more than 51% at fault, you cannot recover any compensation. 

• Damage Caps in Texas: While Texas does not cap economic damages (such as medical expenses and lost wages), there are caps on non-economic damages in specific cases. For instance, medical malpractice cases have a cap on non-economic damages. However, in most personal injury cases, including those involving back and neck injuries, there are no caps on potential compensation. 

• Auto Insurance and Fault: Texas is a "fault" state when it comes to car accidents, meaning that the person responsible for the accident is liable for any resulting harm. This system allows victims to claim compensation directly from the at-fault driver's insurance, file a claim with their own insurance, or pursue a personal injury lawsuit. 

Steps to Filing a Personal Injury Claim in Texas

If you've suffered a back or neck injury in Texas, taking the following steps can be crucial for your claim: 

1. Seek Medical Attention: Prioritize your health and document your injuries thoroughly through medical evaluations. 

2. Report the Incident: Whether it's a car crash or a workplace accident, ensure it's officially reported. 

3. Gather Evidence: Collect as much evidence as possible, including photos, witness statements, and any other documentation related to the incident and your injuries. 

4. Consult With a Texas Personal Injury Attorney: Engaging with an attorney experienced in Texas's specific personal injury laws is invaluable. They can offer a free consultation, work on a contingency basis, and guide you through the complexities of your claim. 

5. File Your Claim: With your attorney's assistance, your claim will be formally filed, marking the beginning of the legal process to seek compensation. 

6. Preparation for Possible Trial: While many personal injury claims are settled out of court, be prepared for the possibility that your case could go to trial. Your attorney will help prepare your case, gather necessary evidence, and advocate on your behalf throughout the process. 

Why Legal Representation Is Key

The aftermath of a back or neck injury is often overwhelming, and the legal facets of filing a claim in Texas can add an additional layer of stress. Seeking the assistance of a skilled personal injury attorney not only provides you with an advocate but also ensures that your claim is handled correctly and efficiently, potentially leading to a more favorable outcome. 

Choosing the right legal partner who understands the nuances of Texas law and has experience specifically with back and neck injury cases can make a significant difference in the success of your claim. They can negotiate on your behalf, fight for the maximum compensation you deserve, and guide you through each step of the process with confidence and clarity.