If you’ve suffered an injury in a crash in Austin, you’re not alone. From vehicle crashes on I-35 to construction site falls, personal injury incidents happen every day in the capital city. These injuries can lead to mounting medical bills, lost income, and long-term physical or emotional pain.
Understanding how Austin personal injury law works can help you protect your rights and make informed decisions about your recovery.
What Counts as a Personal Injury Claim?
A personal injury claim arises when someone is harmed due to another party’s negligence. These claims are civil—not criminal—and aim to recover compensation for the victim’s injuries and losses.
Common Personal Injury Cases in Austin Include:
- Car and truck accidents
- Motorcycle and pedestrian accidents
- Slip-and-fall injuries
- Workplace accidents
- Dog bites
- Defective products
- Wrongful death claims
If someone’s careless or reckless behavior caused your injury, you may have grounds for a personal injury claim.
What Texas Law Says About Injury Claims
Texas personal injury law requires that four elements be proven in a negligence case:
- Duty of care – The defendant had a responsibility to act safely
- Breach of duty – They failed to meet that responsibility
- Causation – Their actions directly caused your injury
- Damages – You suffered losses as a result
In Austin, these laws are governed by both Texas state statutes and case law precedents.
To learn more about the specifics of how this applies in your case, visit our Austin personal injury lawyer resource page.
What If You Were Partially at Fault?
Texas follows a modified comparative fault rule. You can still recover compensation if you were less than 51% responsible for the crash. However, your compensation will be reduced by your percentage of fault.
For example, if you’re awarded $100,000 and found 20% at fault, you could receive $80,000.
Steps to Take After an Injury in Austin
Taking quick and informative action after an injury can make or break your case. Here’s what to do:
- Get medical attention – Your health comes first. Even if you feel fine, see a doctor.
- Report the incident – File a police report, alert your employer, or notify the property owner.
- Document everything – Take photos, save receipts, and get contact info from witnesses.
- Avoid speaking to insurers – Their goal is to reduce payouts. Talk to a lawyer before providing statements.
- Call a personal injury attorney – The earlier you get legal help, the better your chances of success.
What Damages Can You Recover?
Under Texas law, injury victims may be entitled to:
Economic Damages:
- Medical bills and hospital stays
- Lost wages
- Property damage
- Ongoing rehab and future medical costs
Non-Economic Damages:
- Pain and suffering
- Emotional trauma
- Loss of enjoyment of life
- Disfigurement or disability
Punitive Damages:
In rare cases involving gross negligence or reckless behavior, such as drunk driving or safety violations, punitive damages may be awarded to punish the at-fault party.
To understand the broader scope of injuries in the U.S., visit the CDC’s Injury Prevention page.
How Long Do You Have to File in Austin?
In Texas, the statute of limitations for personal injury claims is two years from the date of injury. If you miss this deadline, you may lose your right to pursue compensation.
However, certain exceptions may apply:
- Claims involving minors
- Government-related crashes
- Delayed discovery of injury
Don’t delay—evidence fades, witnesses become unavailable, and insurers begin building their defense right away.
Why Truck and Commercial Vehicle Cases Are Different
Accidents involving large trucks or commercial vehicles often result in more serious injuries—and more complex legal claims.
These cases may involve:
- Federal trucking regulations
- Corporate insurance policies
- Black box data
- Multiple liable parties
If your injury involves a truck or commercial driver, visit our truck accident lawyer page to learn how we handle these cases differently.
Why Choose Zinda Law Group?
Zinda Law Group has helped thousands of injury victims across Austin and beyond. We know Texas personal injury law inside and out, and we know how to fight for the compensation you deserve.
When you work with us, you get:
- Free case evaluations
- No fees unless we win
- Experienced trial lawyers
- A team dedicated to client-first representation
Talk to an Austin Personal Injury Attorney Today
If you’ve been injured due to someone else’s negligence, don’t face the legal process alone. Let us help you navigate your claim with confidence and clarity.
Call 800-863-5312 or visit https://www.zdfirm.com/contact-us/ to schedule your free consultation today.
John (Jack) Zinda
Founder / CEO
Over 100 years of combined experience representing injured victims across the country.
Available 24 / 7|Free Consultation
Neil Solomon
Partner
Real results matter. We do not get paid unless we win your case.
Available 24 / 7|Free Consultation
