Auto accidents are among the most common personal injury cases in Texas. Whether it’s a car crash on I-10, a motorcycle accident on Mesa Street, or a pickup truck collision near Horizon City, the legal process that follows can be confusing, frustrating, and financially overwhelming.
This guide explains what to do after a vehicle accident in El Paso, how Texas injury claims work, and when it’s time to speak with a local attorney.
Types of Auto Accidents Covered
In Texas, injury claims are typically filed when one driver’s negligence or recklessness caused harm to another person. Common vehicle accident types include:
Car Accidents
- Rear-end collisions
- Side-impact (“T-bone”) crashes
- Distracted driving incidents
- Drunk driving accidents
- Intersection and stop-sign violations
Truck Accidents (Non-Commercial)
- Pickup truck accidents involving personal vehicles
- Rollovers or single-vehicle crashes
- Failure to yield or follow traffic laws
Motorcycle Accidents
- Left-turn collisions
- Blind spot/lane change accidents
- Drivers “not seeing” motorcycles
- Dooring or poor road conditions
All of these incidents can lead to serious injuries, and victims may be entitled to compensation if another party was at fault.
Texas Is an “At-Fault” State
Texas follows a fault-based system for car and motorcycle accidents. This means the driver who caused the crash is financially responsible for the injuries, vehicle damage, and other losses.
In most cases, claims are handled by the at-fault driver’s insurance company. But insurance companies often try to:
- Downplay injury severity
- Offer low settlement amounts
- Shift blame onto the victim
- Delay or deny valid claims
That’s why it’s important to understand your rights and avoid dealing with insurers alone after a serious crash.
What Compensation Can You Recover After a Crash?
Depending on the facts of your case, you may be eligible to recover:
- Medical expenses (ER visits, surgeries, follow-up care, physical therapy)
- Lost income if the injury kept you from working
- Property damage to your vehicle or gear
- Pain and suffering for physical and emotional harm
- Loss of earning capacity for long-term disabilities
- Out-of-pocket expenses (transportation, medication, etc.)
The exact amount depends on factors like injury severity, liability clarity, and available insurance coverage.
How Long Do You Have to File an Auto Injury Claim in Texas?
The statute of limitations for personal injury claims in Texas is two years from the date of the accident. This deadline applies to car, motorcycle, and truck crashes.
Failing to file a claim or lawsuit within that period can permanently bar your right to recover damages.
What to Do After an Accident in El Paso
- Call 911 and report the crash
- Document the scene, photos, witness info, license plates
- Seek medical attention immediately, even if symptoms seem minor
- Avoid giving statements to insurance adjusters
- Speak with a personal injury attorney before accepting any settlement
Forbes & Forbes helps clients take the right steps after a crash and builds strong claims from the beginning.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who pays for my medical bills after a car accident in Texas?
The at-fault driver’s insurance typically covers your medical expenses. However, in some cases, your own Personal Injury Protection (PIP) or health insurance may be used initially while a claim is pending.
Do I need a lawyer after a car accident?
Not always, but if you’ve been injured, missed work, or are facing pressure from an insurance company, working with a lawyer often leads to better outcomes and fairer compensation.
What if the other driver doesn’t have insurance?
You may be able to file a claim under your uninsured/underinsured motorist (UM/UIM) coverage. Texas insurers are required to offer this option.
Injured in an Auto Accident in El Paso? We Can Help.
At Forbes & Forbes, we’ve helped countless El Paso drivers, riders, and passengers recover after serious vehicle crashes. Whether you were hurt in a car accident, a pickup truck crash, or a motorcycle collision, our team is here to protect your rights and fight for the compensation you deserve.
Call (915) 533-5441 for a free consultation. You don’t pay unless we win your case.
