After an accident, finding the right personal injury lawyer can make all the difference in your recovery and compensation. Texas personal injury laws have unique aspects and statutory requirements that make skilled legal representation essential.
Whether you’ve been injured in a car accident on I-20, hurt at work in Midland, or suffered harm due to medical malpractice in Lubbock, this guide will help you find the best personal injury attorney for your specific situation.
Ready to take the next step? Speak with our trusted Texas Personal Injury Lawyer who understands how to win serious injury cases across West Texas.
Do You Need a Personal Injury Lawyer?
💡 The more complex your injuries or liability situation, the more value our skilled lawyer adds—not just in compensation, but in protection from insurance tactics that work against the unrepresented.
Not every accident requires legal representation, but many situations strongly warrant having our experienced advocate on your side. Here’s how to determine if you need a personal injury lawyer:
Consider hiring a lawyer if:
- Your injuries are severe or permanent
- You’re facing substantial medical bills or lost wages
- The insurance company is denying your claim or offering a low settlement
- Your accident involves multiple parties
- Liability isn’t clear-cut, or you may share some fault
- The accident involved a government entity
Texas follows a “modified comparative fault” rule under Texas Civil Practice and Remedies Code § 33.001, which means if you’re found to be more than 50% responsible for your accident, you cannot recover damages.
When fault is disputed in Texas accident cases, having our experienced attorney is essential. Insurance adjusters often initially assign higher percentages of fault to injured parties, but thorough investigation and evidence gathering can significantly change those determinations.
Where to Start Your Search in Texas
Ask for Referrals from People You Trust
Personal recommendations from family, friends, or colleagues who have worked with personal injury attorneys can be invaluable. While referrals are a great starting point, remember that:
- Your case is unique, with specific circumstances and needs
- An attorney who was perfect for your friend’s minor fender-bender might not be the best choice for a catastrophic injury case
- Always conduct your own research and vetting, even with recommended attorneys
Use Online Directories and Review Platforms
Several reputable online resources can help you identify qualified personal injury lawyers in your area:
- State Bar of Texas Find a Lawyer service
- Texas Board of Legal Specialization
- Avvo
- Super Lawyers
- Martindale-Hubbell
When reviewing online profiles, pay attention to:
- Client testimonials and reviews
- Case results (when available)
- Areas of specialization
- Professional recognitions
Check Board Certification and Legal Associations
In Texas, attorneys can become Board Certified in Personal Injury Trial Law through the Texas Board of Legal Specialization. This certification indicates the lawyer has:
- Extensive experience in personal injury law
- Passed a rigorous examination
- Been evaluated by judges and fellow attorneys
- Completed specialized continuing education requirements
Membership in professional organizations like the Texas Trial Lawyers Association or the American Association for Justice also signals a commitment to advocacy for injured clients.
Not sure if you need an attorney for your specific situation? Contact us online for a free, no-obligation consultation to discuss your case.
Questions to Ask When Interviewing Lawyers
💼 Interviews are two-way streets. You’re not just hiring a lawyer—they should also earn your trust by showing they understand cases like yours.
Experience and Case Type Focus
- How long have you practiced personal injury law in Texas?
- What percentage of your practice is dedicated to personal injury cases?
- Have you handled cases similar to mine? What were the outcomes?
- Do you primarily represent plaintiffs or defendants?
- How many cases have you taken to trial in the past five years?
Who Will Handle Your Case?
Large firms sometimes assign cases to junior associates or paralegals after the initial consultation with a senior partner. Clarify:
- Will you personally handle my case, or will it be assigned to another attorney?
- Who will be my primary contact person?
- How frequently can I expect updates about my case?
- How quickly do you typically respond to client calls or emails?
Fee Structure and Case Costs
Most personal injury attorneys in Texas work on a contingency fee basis, meaning they only get paid if you win your case. However, fee structures and case expense policies vary. Ask:
- What percentage do you charge as your contingency fee?
- Are there different fee rates depending on settlement vs. trial?
- Who covers case expenses (filing fees, expert witnesses, etc.) if we don’t win?
- Are there any scenarios where I might owe money if we don’t recover damages?
| Fee Type | Typical Range | When Due | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Consultation | Free | N/A | Most reputable PI lawyers offer free initial consultations |
| Contingency Fee | 33-40% | After recovery | The percentage may increase if the case goes to trial |
| Case Expenses | Varies | After recovery | May include filing fees, expert witnesses, medical records, etc. |
| Hourly Rate | $200-500/hr | Monthly | Rare for personal injury cases in Texas |
Red Flags to Watch Out For
Be wary of attorneys who:
- Promise specific dollar amounts or guaranteed outcomes – Ethical attorneys know case outcomes are never guaranteed
- Pressure you to sign immediately – You deserve time to make an informed decision
- Have little or no experience with Texas personal injury law – State-specific knowledge is essential
- Demonstrate poor communication – If they’re hard to reach during the hiring process, it won’t improve later
- Have consistently negative reviews or disciplinary actions – Check the State Bar of Texas Attorney Search for disciplinary history
Example: Consider a situation where someone is contacted by a lawyer just days after their car accident. The attorney promises a “guaranteed million-dollar settlement” and pressures them to sign paperwork immediately. This aggressive approach and unrealistic guarantees should raise immediate concerns. A reputable attorney will provide honest assessments and give you time to make informed decisions.
What Makes a Lawyer a Good Fit for You
Finding a technically competent lawyer is just the first step. For the best results, look for an attorney who:
- Communicates in a way you understand – Explains legal concepts without unnecessary jargon
- Respects your goals – Whether you prioritize a quick resolution or maximum compensation
- Has trial experience – Even if you hope to settle, having our lawyer with courtroom experience gives you leverage
- Is accessible – Provides clear expectations about communication frequency and responsiveness
- Shows genuine concern – Takes time to understand how your injuries affect your life
Russell Lorfing and our team pride ourselves on treating clients like family. We understand that behind every case is a person whose life has been disrupted, and we take that responsibility seriously.
Special Considerations for Texas Injury Claims
⚖️ Texas-specific deadlines and liability rules can cost you everything if misunderstood. The right lawyer knows how to work with them—not around them.
Statute of Limitations
In most Texas personal injury cases, you have two years from the date of injury to file a lawsuit (Texas Civil Practice and Remedies Code § 16.003). However, exceptions exist:
- Claims against government entities require notice within six months (or less in some municipalities)
- Cases involving minors may have extended deadlines
- Medical malpractice claims have specific requirements and potentially shorter deadlines
Missing these deadlines can permanently bar your right to compensation.
Comparative Fault
Texas uses a “modified comparative fault” system with a 51% bar rule. This means:
- Your compensation is reduced by your percentage of fault
- If you’re found to be 51% or more responsible, you cannot recover any damages
- Defense attorneys and insurance companies often try to shift blame to reduce payouts
Insurance Requirements and Bad Faith
Texas has minimum auto insurance requirements of 30/60/25:
- $30,000 for bodily injury per person
- $60,000 for total bodily injury per accident
- $25,000 for property damage
However, these minimums are often insufficient for serious accidents. Our experienced attorney will help identify all possible sources of compensation, including:
- Umbrella policies
- Uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage
- Third-party liability
- Homeowner’s insurance in some cases
Additionally, Texas law provides protections against insurance bad faith practices, but managing these claims requires specialized knowledge and experience.
Final Tips for Hiring the Best Personal Injury Lawyer
- Interview multiple attorneys before making your decision
- Take notes during consultations to compare responses
- Trust your instincts about communication style and compatibility
- Verify credentials through the State Bar and other official sources
- Ask about the resources the firm has to investigate and build your case
- Consider location – a lawyer familiar with local courts and practices can be advantageous
Get Help from a Top-Rated Texas Personal Injury Lawyer
At Keith & Lorfing, we’ve built our reputation on being West Texas Tough™ advocates for injury victims throughout Abilene, Lubbock, Midland, San Angelo, and surrounding areas. Our team brings over 75 years of combined experience in personal injury cases.
Russell Lorfing’s background as a former federal prosecutor gives him unique insight into building compelling cases and negotiating from a position of strength. Our deep roots in West Texas communities mean we understand local courts and insurance practices.
Contact us for a free consultation, or call us at (325)-246-9410 or fill out our online form to schedule a time to discuss your case. There’s no fee unless we win.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the average contingency fee for personal injury lawyers in Texas?
Most Texas personal injury attorneys charge between 33% and 40% of the recovery amount as their contingency fee. This percentage may increase if the case proceeds to trial. At Keith & Lorfing, we provide clear, written fee agreements so you’ll never face surprising costs.
How long do I have to file an injury claim in Texas?
For most personal injury cases in Texas, you have two years from the date of injury to file a lawsuit. However, certain circumstances may shorten or extend this deadline. Claims against government entities require notice within six months or less.
What should I bring to my consultation with a lawyer?
To make the most of your initial consultation, bring:
- Accident reports or police records
- Photographs of injuries and the accident scene
- Medical records and bills related to your injury
- Insurance policies and any correspondence with insurers
- Employment information if you’ve missed work
- A written timeline of events and medical treatment
- List of questions you want to ask the attorney
Can I switch lawyers during my personal injury case?
Yes, you have the right to change attorneys if you’re unsatisfied with your current representation. However, timing and contractual obligations may complicate the transition. The original attorney may still be entitled to a portion of the fee for work already completed. If you’re considering switching, consult with your potential new attorney about the process.
Do all personal injury lawyers in Texas offer free consultations?
Most reputable personal injury attorneys in Texas offer free initial consultations, but it’s always best to confirm this before scheduling. At Keith & Lorfing, we believe everyone deserves access to legal information without upfront costs, which is why we offer free, no-obligation consultations for all potential personal injury clients.
