Getting into a car crash is stressful enough. But finding out you’ve been sued for a car accident in Texas, even though you have insurance can be downright alarming. Many drivers think carrying the required liability insurance will shield them from legal trouble. That’s not always true.
At Orange Law Firm, car accident attorney in Houston Karan Joshi has helped clients deal with lawsuits stemming from auto collisions. If you’ve been served with legal papers or threatened with a claim, here’s what you need to know.
Does Insurance Prevent You from Being Sued?
Texas is a fault-based insurance state. That means the person who caused the accident is financially responsible for the resulting damage and injuries. All Texas drivers are legally required to carry liability coverage with the following minimum limits:
- $30,000 for bodily injury per person
- $60,000 total per accident
- $25,000 for property damage
While this coverage pays for the other party’s losses up to your policy limits, it does not stop them from suing you. You can still be sued for a car accident in Texas in several situations:
- The insurance company denies their claim
- The insurer refuses to settle
- Their damages exceed your coverage limits
In these cases, the injured party has every right to take legal action directly against you.
What Happens When You’re Sued?
If someone files a lawsuit against you, you’ll be formally “served” with a legal complaint. That document outlines their claims, the damages they seek, and your role in the crash. Once served:
- Immediately notify your insurance provider.
- Forward all legal documents.
- Do not ignore the lawsuit. A no-response can lead to a default judgment.
- Participate in discovery. This is the evidence-sharing phase of the case.
- Be prepared for negotiation. Many lawsuits settle before trial.
Although your insurer will typically assign a defense attorney to represent you, their primary goal is to minimize the company’s liability, not necessarily protect your personal finances. Hiring an independent car accident attorney in Houston ensures your interests remain a top priority.
What Can the Other Party Sue You For?
If you are sued for a car accident in Texas, the injured party can seek a wide range of damages, including:
- Medical expenses (past and future)
- Property damage to their vehicle
- Lost wages
- Pain and suffering
- Emotional distress
- Punitive damages in extreme cases
These damages can add up quickly, especially in severe accidents. If the judgment exceeds your policy limits, you’re on the hook for the remainder, which could put your personal savings, income, or even property at risk.
Why You Shouldn’t Rely Solely on Your Insurance Company
While insurance will provide legal defense up to a point, it may not go far enough to protect your financial future. Once your policy limits are exhausted, the insurance company has no further obligation. You could be left exposed—unless you have legal representation looking out for you personally.
At Orange Law Firm, car accident attorney in Houston Karan Joshi works with clients who’ve been blindsided by lawsuits even after reporting everything properly. He reviews every detail of the case, helps challenge inflated claims, and builds a defense strategy that considers more than just the insurance payout.
Time Limits for Car Accident Lawsuits in Texas
The law gives the injured party two years from the date of the crash to file a lawsuit. This is known as the statute of limitations. However, once you’re sued for a car accident in Texas, deadlines move quickly—especially for filing a response or submitting documents in court.
Failing to act on time can result in automatic loss. A seasoned car accident attorney in Houston can make sure your response is timely, your case is solid, and your personal assets are protected throughout the process.
How to Protect Yourself If You’ve Been Sued
Here’s what you should do immediately after being sued for an accident:
- Notify your insurer in writing as soon as you receive the complaint
- Forward copies of all paperwork, summons, or court notices
- Do not admit fault, in writing or verbally, to any party
- Avoid direct communication with the person suing you
- Contact a qualified car accident attorney in Houston who can advocate for you
The sooner you act, the better your chances of resolving the situation without major financial fallout.
When to Call a Car Accident Attorney in Houston
You don’t have to wait until your insurer fails you. Even if they’ve assigned a lawyer to your case, you have the right to hire your own counsel. An independent car accident attorney in Houston can evaluate your full legal exposure, represent you in negotiations, and even handle the case in court if necessary.
Attorney Karan Joshi at Orange Law Firm is experienced in defending clients who are sued for a car accident in Texas. From handling false allegations to minimizing damage claims, he works to ensure you aren’t left carrying more than your share of the burden.
Contact Orange Law Firm Today
If you’ve been sued for a car accident in Texas, don’t delay. The clock is ticking, and your financial future is at stake. Contact car accident attorney in Houston Karan Joshi at Orange Law Firm for a confidential consultation. We’ll help you understand your legal options and protect your assets through every stage of the case.
