What to do after a car accident in Houston
Get safe, call 911 if anyone is hurt, report the crash, swap information, take photos, and get checked even if you feel fine. Our free Accident Recovery Guide walks through every step, including what to keep for your records.
Looking for a personal injury lawyer in Houston?
A lot of people start by searching for a Houston personal injury lawyer, a car accident lawyer in Houston, a personal injury attorney or a car accident lawyer near me. That's a reasonable step, especially when you're hurt. Here's how Cruize fits in: Cruize Control is not a law firm and doesn't give legal advice. What he does is help you get medical care first, and he works alongside Houston personal injury attorneys to keep your care and their office on the same page.
When choosing a car accident attorney in Houston, you can confirm a lawyer is licensed through the State Bar of Texas directory at texasbar.com. Ask about their experience with cases like yours, how they communicate, and how fees work. Many personal injury lawyers work on contingency, meaning they're paid a percentage only if you recover money.
Do I need a lawyer for a car accident in Houston?
Not always. Minor fender benders with no injuries are often handled directly with insurance. People commonly talk to a lawyer when they're injured, when fault is disputed, when an insurance company is pushing for a quick settlement, or when a truck, 18-wheeler, motorcycle or rideshare crash is involved. Either way, your health comes first: you don't need an attorney to get checked out.
Who pays medical bills after a car accident in Texas?
Texas is an at-fault state. The at-fault driver's liability insurance is generally responsible for your injuries, but that money usually comes later, through a claim or settlement. In the meantime, medical bills are often covered by:
- Your health insurance, which may seek repayment later from a settlement.
- Personal Injury Protection (PIP). Texas insurers must offer PIP with auto policies, and it applies unless you rejected it in writing. It can help with medical bills and lost wages regardless of fault.
- MedPay, if it's on your policy.
- A letter of protection, arranged through your attorney (see below).
Keep every bill, receipt and record. It makes the process much easier later.
What is a letter of protection in Texas?
A letter of protection (LOP) is an agreement, usually sent by your attorney, asking a medical provider to treat you now and wait to be paid from your settlement or judgment. That's why people search for letter of protection doctors in Houston or a doctor with no upfront cost after a car accident. Two things to know: not every provider accepts LOPs, and you can generally still be responsible for the bill if your case doesn't recover enough. Ask questions before you start treatment.
How long do I have to file a car accident lawsuit in Texas?
For most personal injury claims, Texas allows two years from the date of the accident to file a lawsuit. Some situations have different deadlines, and evidence like video footage and witness memories fades quickly, so it's smart to speak with a licensed attorney early.
What is the average car accident settlement in Texas?
There's no reliable "average." Every claim depends on the injuries, medical treatment, lost wages, insurance limits and who was at fault. Texas also reduces recovery by your share of fault and generally bars recovery if you're found more than 50% responsible. Be cautious of anyone who promises a specific amount. Cruize doesn't evaluate claims. He helps you get to care.
Common questions
Do I need a lawyer for a car accident in Houston?
Not always. Many minor fender benders are handled directly with insurance. People often talk to a personal injury attorney when they're injured, fault is disputed, a commercial truck or rideshare is involved, or an insurer is pressuring them. Many Houston personal injury lawyers offer free consultations.
Who pays medical bills after a car accident in Texas?
Texas is an at-fault state, so the at-fault driver's liability insurance is generally responsible, but that payment usually comes later through a claim or settlement. In the meantime, bills are often paid through your own health insurance, Personal Injury Protection (PIP) or MedPay coverage, or arranged through a letter of protection with your attorney.
What is a letter of protection in Texas?
A letter of protection (LOP) is an agreement, usually sent by your attorney, asking a medical provider to treat you now and wait to be paid from your settlement or judgment. Not every provider accepts LOPs, and you can generally still be responsible for the bill if the case doesn't recover enough.
How long do I have to file a car accident lawsuit in Texas?
In most cases, Texas gives you two years from the date of the accident to file a personal injury lawsuit. There are exceptions, and evidence is easier to gather early, so talk with a licensed attorney as soon as you can.
What is the average car accident settlement in Texas?
There isn't a reliable average. Every claim depends on the injuries, medical bills, lost wages, who was at fault and the insurance limits involved. Be cautious of anyone who promises a number. A licensed attorney can explain what may apply to you.
Can I see a doctor with no upfront cost after a car accident?
Sometimes. Options can include health insurance, PIP or MedPay coverage, or a provider who agrees to wait for payment under a letter of protection. Ask about costs before treatment so there are no surprises.
