Austin Personal Injury Lawyers

What Types of Cases Our Personal Injury Lawyers Handle in Austin

Our personal injury lawyers in Austin have seen every manner of accident. We understand that accidents happen but also how some accidents could have been preventable and there is often a clear victim of another’s negligence. If you are a victim of any accident caused by the negligence of another party, do not hesitate to reach out to Thompson Law for your FREE, no-obligation case review.

Some personal injury cases we deal with in the Austin area are:

• Car Accident Injuries:  Every auto accident is different, leading to varying levels of damage, injuries, and losses. While many accidents happen because a driver wasn’t paying attention, others result from reckless behavior. In Texas, if another driver is at fault for an accident involving you or a loved one, the injured victim may be eligible to recover compensation for property damage, medical expenses, pain and suffering, mental anguish, and lost wages or income.
• Construction Accidents:  The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (aka OSHA) has cited some of the following as being the leading most common standards that are violated on construction sites. The top 10 frequently violated standards from FY 2020 were fall protection – general requirements, hazard communication, respiratory protection, scaffolding, ladders, lockout/tagout, powered industrial trucks, fall protection – training requirements, personal protective and lifesaving equipment – eye and face, and machine guarding.
• Medical Malpractice:  You’re supposed to trust doctors, right? Ideally, they should act ethically, guided by the Hippocratic Oath. They’re also legally obligated to prioritize their patients’ well-being and provide the best care possible. However, there are times when financial motives can lead a medical professional to misuse that trust. If you are a victim of medical malpractice, please reach out to us to help you get the compensation you deserve!
• Product Liability Accidents:  Product liability law is mostly based around torts law. According to the Legal Information Institute at Cornell, “A tort is an act or omission that gives rise to injury or harm to another and amounts to a civil wrong for which courts impose liability.”
• Workplace Injuries:  According to OSHA some of the most common workplace standards that were violated in the US in 2019 were hazard communication standards, respiratory protection standards, control of hazardous energy standards, powered industrial truck standards, eye and face protection standards, and machinery and machine guarding standards. OSHA works hard to keep workers safe and healthy, but a long list of violations shows that many workplaces still fall short. Unfortunately, this means job-related injuries are all too common. If you’ve been hurt at work, reach out to our Austin personal injury lawyers today.

Our injury lawyers also handle cases related to:

• Car Accidents
• Commercial vehicle accidents
• Slip and fall accidents
• Dog bite injuries
• Oil field accidents
• 18-wheeler accidents
• Trucking accidents
• Pedestrian accidents
• Motorcycle accidents
• Wrongful death

Don’t see your injury on this list? Contact us today to see if our personal injury lawyers can handle your claim!

How Can Our Personal Injury Lawyers in Austin Help

At Thompson Law, our Austin personal injury lawyers bring extensive knowledge and proven experience to every case. With a track record of successful outcomes, we’re dedicated to investigating your accident thoroughly to uncover exactly what happened. Throughout the process, your lawyer will keep you informed of your rights under Texas law.

To build a strong case, our attorneys will gather and analyze key evidence, including:

• Eyewitness accounts
• Official Austin police report
• Your statement of events
• Witness testimony
• Medical records
• Surveillance or dashcam footage
• Video and photos of the crash aftermath
• Documents related to the incident

Every case is different, but our team’s years of experience with personal injury claims help us handle even the toughest situations. We use our knowledge of personal injury law in Austin to work toward the best outcome for every client.

How Common Are Personal Injury Cases in Austin?

Personal injury cases are common legal issues in Austin and across Texas. Here are some key statistics collected in Austin for 2022:

In 2022, over 14,072 motor vehicle accidents were reported in Austin, a 15% increase from 2021. Many of these resulted in injuries and personal injury claims.

• Slip-and-fall cases also rose in Austin during 2022. Nearly 1,000 trip-and-fall injury claims were filed against businesses and property owners in the city last year.
• Austin saw over 212 bicycle accidents resulting in injuries in 2022, a 10% increase over the previous year. If a car driver is at fault, these often lead to personal injury claims.
• On average, around 118 Austinites lost their lives in motor vehicle crashes in 2022. Wrongful death claims are filed in many of these incidents.
• Back injuries, traumatic brain injuries, broken bones, spinal cord injuries, and burn injuries remained some of the most common personal injuries seen in Austin injury claims.

Experts recommend immediately consulting with some Austin personal injury lawyers after being injured in an accident to understand your legal options and rights to compensation. An attorney can deal with insurance companies and negotiate a fair settlement.

Sources: FMCSA, NHTSA, TXDOT, IIHS, CDC, TDI

Major Hospitals in Austin That Handle Personal Injuries

If you’ve been hurt in an accident in Austin, time matters—and so does where you go. Here are five major hospitals that can step up in a crisis:

• Dell Seton Medical Center at The University of Texas:  A Level I trauma center. Car wrecks, spinal injuries, head trauma — they’ve got the tools and talent for the worst-case scenarios.
• St. David’s Medical Center:  Clean, efficient, and known for great patient care. This spot has a solid emergency team that knows how to handle a broken leg when they see one.
• Ascension Seton Medical Center Austin:  If you’ve been in an accident and you’re not quite sure how bad it is, this hospital is a good bet — especially for older adults or people with pre-existing conditions.
• Baylor Scott & White Medical Center – Austin:  It’s modern, well-equipped, and a good choice if you’re on the north side of the city and need help ASAP.
• South Austin Medical Center (part of St. David’s):  Got hurt in South Austin? This place is fast, friendly, and fully stocked for everything from busted wrists to major trauma.

Local Laws Every Personal Injury Victim in Austin Should Know

Here are five legal rules that could seriously impact your personal injury case in Austin:

Texas Uses “Modified Comparative Fault”

If you were partly at fault for the accident, your payout could shrink. Let’s say you were texting while walking and got hit by a driver going too fast — if you’re found 30% responsible, you only get 70% of the damages. If you’re more than 50% at fault? You get nothing.

There’s No Cap on Most Personal Injury Damages

Good news here. Unless it’s a medical malpractice case, Texas doesn’t limit how much you can recover for things like pain, lost income, or emotional distress.

Austin Pedestrians and Cyclists Have Strong Rights — on Paper

Cars are supposed to yield, especially in crosswalks and bike lanes. If you’ve been hit while walking or biking, the law is on your side — even if the driver tries to blame you.

You’ve Got 2 Years to File

In Texas, if you don’t file a personal injury claim within two years, you’re probably out of luck. Exemptions may apply.

How the Personal Injury Claims Process Works in Austin

Here are some of the steps you can expect while working with our Austin personal injury lawyers:

• Initial Consultation:  Consultations for legal representation with one of our reputable Austin personal injury lawyers are always FREE!
• Initial Petition or Complaint:  Once we have basic information regarding your case, they will file a petition with the appropriate court. Some information gathered at this stage may be the type of injury you or a loved one has suffered, how the injury was caused, and the damages you have suffered because of your accident or injury.
• Defendants are Served Notice:  Defendants are physically “served” a notice (a copy of the petition or complaint).
• Defendants Hire a Lawyer:  After a defendant is served, they have a short window to determine if they want to hire an attorney.
• Pre-trial and Discovery:  During the discovery phase your Austin personal injury lawyers and the defense exchange evidence and witness information. Some information exchanged may be police reports, any communications with insurance representatives, medical records, and witness statements.
• Settlement Negotiation and Pre-Trial:  This is where many personal injury cases are solved either through mediation, arbitration, or a settlement agreement.
• Trial:  If a settlement is not agreed upon or is deemed inadequate, the case will go to trial. This is where the team at Thompson Law shines. We won 2 of the top 5 personal injury settlements in 2020.
• Verdict:  If you do not win, we do not get paid!

Common Causes of Personal Injury in Austin

1. Vehicle Accidents: Including car crashes, truck accidents, motorcycle collisions, pedestrian accidents, bus accidents, or bicycle accidents caused by reckless driving, distracted driving, or impaired driving.
2. Slip and Fall Accidents: Occur on poorly maintained premises, slippery floors, uneven surfaces, or due to inadequate warnings about hazards.
3. Medical Malpractice: Resulting from negligence or errors by healthcare providers, including misdiagnosis, surgical mistakes, medication errors, and birth injuries.
4. Workplace Accidents: Such as construction site injuries, industrial accidents, falls from heights, machinery accidents, and exposure to hazardous substances.
5. Defective Products: Injuries caused by defective or dangerous products, including faulty machinery, pharmaceutical drugs, consumer products, and vehicle components.
6. Dog Bites and Animal Attacks: Injuries caused by aggressive or poorly controlled animals, leading to physical injuries and emotional trauma.
7. Assault and Battery: Physical injuries resulting from intentional harm, violence, or criminal acts, including assault, battery, and other violent crimes.
8. Nursing Home Abuse: Injuries sustained by elderly or vulnerable individuals due to neglect, abuse, or mistreatment in nursing homes or care facilities.

If you’ve been injured due to any of these causes or other incidents resulting from someone else’s negligence, Thompson Law is here to help. Our experienced Austin personal injury lawyers are dedicated to advocating for your rights and securing the compensation you deserve. Call today for a FREE CONSULTATION.

FAQs About Personal Injury Cases in Austin

What Should I Do After an Accident?

If you’re injured in an accident, your top priority should be seeking medical attention, even if you don’t think you’re seriously hurt. Seeing a doctor immediately ensures any injuries are treated and creates a record proving they were caused by the accident. Adrenaline can mask symptoms, so skipping this step could harm your health and your claim. Once you’ve received medical care, consult a personal injury lawyer to explore your options.

Why Do I Need a Personal Injury Lawyer in Austin?

A personal injury lawyer can help you get fair compensation for your losses, such as medical bills, lost wages, and emotional distress. Insurance companies work to protect their clients, not you, so having an attorney ensures you’re not shortchanged. A lawyer can also identify additional damages you may be entitled to, like future medical costs or pain and suffering.

What Is Uninsured Motorist (UM) Coverage?

UM coverage is optional insurance that protects you if you’re hit by an uninsured driver or in a hit-and-run. It covers your medical bills and damages when the at-fault party can’t. Check your policy to see if you have this coverage; if not, consider adding it for peace of mind.

Should I Investigate My Own Accident?

No. Let professionals handle the investigation. Lawyers and experts know how to collect and analyze evidence, ensuring your case is as strong as possible.

Can Pedestrians Injured in Accidents File Claims?

Yes. Pedestrians have the same right to seek compensation as drivers. If you’ve been hit while walking, contact an experienced personal injury attorney to ensure you receive proper care and fair compensation.

Can I File a Claim for a Family Member’s Injury?

In many cases, yes. If a loved one is injured or killed in an accident, certain family members or legal guardians may file a claim on their behalf. This often depends on the relationship and circumstances, so consult an attorney for guidance.

What If the Other Vehicle Was an 18-Wheeler?

Accidents with commercial vehicles are often more complex. Trucking companies have legal teams working to minimize payouts, so it’s critical to hire an attorney right away. The sooner you act, the stronger your case will be.

Can I Trust the Trucking Company to Help After an Accident?

No. Trucking companies aim to protect their drivers and reduce their liability. Don’t accept any offers or settlements without consulting a lawyer. An attorney can negotiate on your behalf to secure fair compensation for your injuries and damages.

How Do I Choose the Right Personal Injury Lawyer?

Look for an attorney with excellent client service, advanced technology for case management, and a history of taking cases to trial. At Thompson Law, we pride ourselves on delivering top-notch results for cases of all sizes, from minor car wrecks to major workplace accidents or 18-wheeler crashes.

Do You Offer Free Consultations?

Yes! Thompson Law is available 24/7 for free consultations. Whether you were in a car accident, a truck collision, or another type of incident caused by negligence, contact us anytime at 1-800-LION-LAW. We’re here to help.

How Are Medical Bills and Damages Paid After an Accident?

Insurance companies typically pay out a lump sum once a settlement is reached, not as expenses arise. Managing medical bills in the meantime can be challenging, but our attorneys can guide you on how to handle immediate expenses and maximize your settlement.

How Long Does a Personal Injury Case Take?

Most cases settle within 6–12 months, but timelines vary based on factors like the severity of injuries, length of medical treatment, and the insurance company’s cooperation. If a lawsuit is necessary, it could take 1–2 years to resolve. Contact us to discuss your case and get an estimate for your situation.

How Do I File a Personal Injury Lawsuit in Austin?

To file, consult an attorney, gather evidence (like medical records and police reports), and submit a complaint to the appropriate Texas court.

What Is the Average Personal Injury Settlement in Austin?

Settlements range from a few thousand dollars to millions, depending on factors like injury severity and financial losses.

Are There Caps on Personal Injury Claims in Austin?

Most claims have no cap, but non-economic damages in medical malpractice cases are capped at $250,000 per defendant, up to $500,000 total.

How Long Do I Have to Sue in Austin?

You have two years from the date of injury to file a lawsuit. Acting quickly ensures you meet this deadline.