Life in New Braunfels can change quickly after an unexpected accident. Doctor visits may take up your time, and bills can begin to build while you wait to recover.
Your New Braunfels personal injury attorney, Michael Garatoni, is here to listen and help you explore how a claim could ease some of the pressure on your shoulders. If you were injured, you can reach out today to share your situation and learn what support may be available.
Legal Issues That Can Complicate a Personal Injury Claim
Texas law sets specific rules that can change how an injury case is resolved. Your New Braunfels personal injury lawyer, Michael Garatoni, can explain how these rules apply to your situation and why they matter when negotiating with insurers or presenting your claim in court.
How Comparative Fault Can Affect the Outcome
In Texas, compensation depends not only on the harm you suffered but also on whether you are found partly responsible for the accident. The modified comparative negligence rule reduces your recovery by the percentage of fault assigned to you. If that share reaches 51% or more, you cannot recover damages at all.
Even a small percentage can take a noticeable amount from the final award. Under Texas Civil Practice and Remedies Code § 33.001, this system makes accurate evidence and strong legal advocacy essential.
Why Deadlines Under Texas Law Are So Important
One of the most common questions is when to hire a personal injury lawyer. Timing matters because strict filing deadlines apply to nearly every case in Texas. Waiting too long can close the door on recovery, no matter how serious your injuries are.
The Texas Civil Practice and Remedies Code § 16.003 gives you two years to file most personal injury claims. Courts enforce this deadline firmly, and missing it prevents any compensation. Acting quickly after an accident allows us to gather evidence and file within the time limit, which keeps your claim active.
Mistakes That Can Hurt Your Case in New Braunfels
Even strong claims can lose value when common errors slip in along the way. Small missteps may not seem important at first, but they can give insurers or defense attorneys room to challenge your case. Here are mistakes you will want to avoid:
- Delaying medical care
- Failing to gather records
- Giving recorded statements to insurers
- Signing documents too soon
- Missing statutory deadlines
- Posting online about the accident
- Underestimating medical needs
- Waiting too long to consult an attorney
- Overlooking witness contact information
- Disregarding follow-up treatment
Insurance companies are quick to point out mistakes after a car accident because those errors help them reduce what they must pay. Even something minor, like missing a doctor’s appointment, can be used as leverage under Texas Rules of Evidence § 801 when your statements or records are questioned in court.
Work With a Personal Injury Lawyer in New Braunfels Today
Your personal injury attorney in New Braunfels, Michael Garatoni, can sit down with you to hear what has been hardest since the accident. You can contact us to talk through the impact on your health or the income you have missed while recovering. Reaching out today gives you the chance to work with someone who understands your situation and is ready to help.