Blog

Personal injury claims in Texas are often clouded by myths, leaving you uncertain about your rights. Misconceptions like “minor injuries aren’t worth claiming” or “cases always end up in court” can stop you from pursuing justice.

At Palker Law Firm, we know how bewildering and stressful the claims process can be. You don’t have to face it alone. We’re here to obliterate the myths that hold you back and empower you to fight for what you truly deserve.

5 Common Myths About Personal Injury Claims in Texas

Insurance companies are quick to use tricks and loopholes to reduce or deny personal injury claims. Knowing their strategies can help you protect your rights and avoid costly mistakes. Here’s the unvarnished truth about personal injury claims in Texas:

Myth 1: Minor injuries aren’t worth claiming

Even minor injuries can cause lasting issues, from chronic pain to mounting medical bills. What seems minor at first can escalate into more serious health complications, such as whiplash turning into persistent neck pain.

Texas law is on your side, safeguarding your right to compensation for all damages—medical costs, lost wages, and emotional turmoil. Additionally, some injuries, like concussions, may show delayed symptoms, making early legal advice critical.

Consulting an attorney promptly ensures that you understand the full scope of your injuries and receive proper medical evaluations. An experienced lawyer can work with medical experts to document the potential long-term effects of your injuries and secure a settlement that covers both current and future expenses.

Myth 2: You can file anytime

Wrong. Texas law places a strict two-year statute of limitations for personal injury claims, meaning that waiting too long can permanently bar you from receiving compensation. People often underestimate how quickly time passes while recovering from injuries or negotiating with insurers.

Beyond the legal deadline, delaying your claim can also weaken your case—physical evidence may disappear, and witnesses’ memories can fade. Time is not on your side.

Myth 3: All cases end in court

Think again. Over 90% of personal injury cases settle outside court, often through negotiation or mediation, as revealed by the US Department of Justice. Settlements offer a faster, less stressful resolution than trials and provide victims with fair compensation without the uncertainty of a courtroom battle.

In addition to saving time and costs, settlements allow you to retain control over the outcome. Mediation often leads to mutually beneficial agreements, and experienced attorneys can negotiate terms that fully address your losses. Trials, while sometimes necessary, are rare and usually reserved for cases where the parties cannot reach an agreement.

Myth 4: Insurance companies offer fair settlements

Insurance companies prioritize their bottom line, often using tactics like quick, lowball offers or disputing the severity of injuries to minimize payouts. Fight back with medical records, expert opinions, and case precedents to secure a settlement that reflects your true losses.

Myth 5: It’s all about the money

Personal injury claims are about more than just financial compensation—they are about justice, accountability, and change. By holding negligent parties responsible, claims highlight safety hazards and often lead to improved regulations or industry practices that prevent similar accidents.

Successful claims often promote safer business practices, improved public policies, and a heightened focus on community well-being. Personal injury claims, therefore, drive systemic change while ensuring victims receive both justice and closure.

How to Make a Successful Personal Injury Claim

To build a rock-solid personal injury claim in Texas, we recommend you follow these steps:

Seek medical attention immediately
Prompt treatment documents your injuries and connects them to the incident, which is crucial evidence in your case.

Gather evidence

Collect detailed photos, video footage, witness statements, police reports, and all medical records to support your claim.

Consult a skilled personal injury attorney

An experienced attorney helps you understand your rights, handles negotiations with insurers, and represents you if the case goes to court.

Document all damages thoroughly

Maintain a detailed record of medical bills, lost wages, property damage, and any other expenses caused by the injury.

Track your recovery and impact

Keep a journal documenting pain levels, emotional distress, and how the injury affects your daily life to support claims for non-economic damages.

File your claim promptly

Adhere to Texas’s two-year statute of limitations, filing early to preserve evidence and witness reliability.

Avoid common pitfalls

Do not give recorded statements to insurers without legal counsel, and be cautious about settling too quickly without understanding your future needs.

We understand how difficult this time can be, but you don’t have to face it alone. Let Palker Law Firm listen to your story, guide you through your options, and fight for you every step of the way. Contact us today for a free consultation—because your well-being matters, and, as a Texas-based attorney, we’re here to help you find the justice you deserve.