Dashcam video can be critical evidence in Texas car and truck accident claims.

Dashcams are everywhere now—from commuters on I-35W to rideshare drivers on West 7th in Fort Worth, Texas. When a crash happens, those few seconds of video can be the difference between a strong claim and a tough fight. Below is a practical, Texas-specific guide to using dashcam footage the right way: is it legal to record, how courts admit it, how to preserve it so it actually holds up, and how we present it to insurers and juries.

Is it legal to use a dashcam in Texas?

Recording is generally legal. Texas is a “one-party consent” state for recording conversations. If you are a party to the conversation (or one party consents), audio recording is lawful. Texas Penal Code §16.02 and related guidance confirm one-party consent, and Texas also provides a civil cause of action against illegal interceptions in Chapter 123 of the Civil Practice & Remedies Code. 

Mind the windshield. Texas restricts objects or materials on the windshield that obstruct the driver’s view. If your dashcam (or its mount, cord, or stickers) materially obstructs your view, that can be a traffic offense—and in a lawsuit, the defense may argue the placement contributed to the crash. See Transportation Code §547.613 (Restrictions on Windows).

Privacy pitfalls. Audio of passengers is usually fine if you’re in the conversation, but secretly recording other people’s private conversations can trigger criminal and civil liability. (There’s a private civil cause of action for unlawful interception, with statutory damages, under CPRC §123.002.) 

When is dashcam footage admissible in a Texas court?

Texas courts admit dashcam video under the ordinary Rules of Evidence—no special “tech rules” required. We focus on four pillars: relevance, authentication, best-evidence, and hearsay.

1. Relevance (Rules 401–403). The clip must make a disputed fact more or less probable (e.g., who had the green light) and its probative value can’t be substantially outweighed by risk of unfair prejudice or confusion.
2. Authentication (Rule 901). You must show the video “is what you claim it is.” You can do this with:
   • Witness testimony (you installed the dashcam; the location/time look right).
   • Distinctive characteristics/metadata (device model, GPS/time stamps, file path).
   • Evidence about a process or system showing the camera reliably records (Rule 901(b)(9)). Texas courts accept the “silent-witness” theory for video—no eyewitness to the events is required if the system’s reliability is proved.
3. Helpful Texas cases:
   • Fowler v. State—Court of Criminal Appeals discussed authenticating store surveillance video under Rule 901;
   • Tienda v. State—Texas’s leading case on authenticating digital evidence based on circumstantial markers; the same logic applies in civil cases.
4. Best-evidence rules (Rules 1001–1004). Courts treat “photographs” to include video in any form. For electronically stored information, an “original” includes any accurate printout or visual output; duplicates are generally admissible unless authenticity is reasonably questioned.
5. Hearsay (Rules 801–803). The video itself isn’t hearsay. But spoken words captured on the audio track can be. Common paths around hearsay:
   • Opposing party’s statements (801(e)(2))—admissible when offered against them.
   • Business records (803(6))—often useful for commercial fleet cams with automated logging and custodian affidavits (Rule 902(10)). 

Preservation: how to keep your dashcam clip admissible (and avoid spoliation)

Once a crash happens—and certainly once a claim is reasonably anticipated—you have a duty to preserve relevant evidence. Texas’s spoliation doctrine (from Brookshire Brothers, Ltd. v. Aldridge) allows courts to impose sanctions or adverse inferences if evidence is lost or altered. 

Our recommended preservation protocol (do these immediately):

1. Secure the source media. Remove the SD/microSD card and write-protect it (use a lockable adapter). Don’t keep recording over it. Make two verified, read-only copies.
2. Hash the files. Create SHA-256 hashes for the original and each copy; record them in a simple chain-of-custody log (who handled what, when, and where). Courts respond well to this discipline even in civil cases.
3. Keep it native. Preserve the native file(s) with the original metadata (timestamp, GPS, device info). Screenshots or re-exports may be fine for negotiation, but they’re secondary for court. The Rules of Evidence prefer the original or a faithful duplicate.
4. Don’t edit. No cropping, filtering, speed-ups, or “compilations” in your working copy. If we later prepare a demonstrative clip, we’ll also offer the unedited original to avoid Rule 403 issues.
5. Send preservation letters. If another driver, a trucking company, or a rideshare platform may have video (exterior cameras, dashcams, storefront cams), we send preservation letters right away to stop routine deletion. Brookshire teaches that the duty to preserve arises when litigation is reasonably anticipated. 

Producing and obtaining dashcam video in discovery

Texas discovery has special rules for electronic data:

• Rule 196.4 (TRCP) governs ESI. The requesting party should specify the form (e.g., native .MP4 with metadata). The responding party must produce what’s reasonably available or object if the request is unduly burdensome; courts apply proportionality.
• For business-record dashcams (e.g., fleet systems), we often use a custodian affidavit under TRE 803(6) & 902(10), served at least 14 days before trial.

How we present dashcam evidence so it persuades

1. Foundation first. We authenticate with either (a) a witness familiar with the device and scene, or (b) the “process/system” route under Rule 901(b)(9) with device specifications, settings, and integrity steps (hashes, chain-of-custody).
2. Context matters. We prepare a timeline synced to key frames (light phases, speeds, distances) and, when helpful, pair it with intersection diagrams or event-data-recorder (EDR) readouts.
3. Avoiding 403 traps. We show the full, unedited clip and supply a short demonstrative if needed. Providing full context reduces “misleading” objections.
4. Audio strategy. If the audio includes the other driver’s admissions (“I never saw you”), those are typically non-hearsay as opposing-party statements (801(e)(2)). Statements from bystanders may require a hearsay exception—or we rely on the video and call the witness.
5. Comparative fault defense. Be ready: if your camera placement arguably obstructed your view, the defense may argue negligence. Proper mounting (see §547.613) and clear testimony about line-of-sight help neutralize this.

Practical FAQs

Q: My dashcam overwrites footage every few hours. What now?

Pull the power, remove the card, and preserve immediately. If it is overwritten, ask us about subpoenas/preservation letters to nearby businesses, city traffic cams, or the other driver’s telematics/dashcam. Texas spoliation law rewards early, reasonable preservation efforts. 

Q: Do I have to give the insurer my video right away?

We usually control the release until we’ve reviewed the liability and damages strategy. If we share early, we provide a faithful and accurate copy and preserve the original per the best-evidence rules. 

Q: The clip has my passenger talking. Is that a problem?

Not usually. Texas is one-party consent; if you were a participant, the recording is lawful. If someone else’s private conversation was captured (and you were not a party), talk to us before sharing. 

Q: Can the court reject my video because it’s a copy?

Not if it’s an accurate duplicate and authenticity isn’t in reasonable dispute (Rule 1003). If authenticity is challenged, we offer the original or explain why it’s unavailable under Rule 1004. 

Bottom line

Dashcam footage can make your Texas car accident case—but only if it’s lawfully recorded, properly preserved, and cleanly authenticated. Our team at the HLAW law firm builds the evidentiary foundation from day one so insurers and juries see what really happened—clearly and credibly.

If you have dashcam video from a crash (or think someone else does), contact our office right away. We’ll lock down the evidence, send preservation letters, and put it to work for your case.

Key Texas Authorities (for readers who want to dig deeper)

• Recording & privacy: Texas Penal Code §16.02 (one-party consent); CPRC §123.002 (civil cause of action for unlawful interception).
• Windshield/placement: Transportation Code §547.613 (Restrictions on Windows).
• Admissibility & authentication: Texas Rules of Evidence 401, 403, 901, and Article X (Rules 1001–1004).
• Spoliation: Brookshire Brothers, Ltd. v. Aldridge, 438 S.W.3d 9 (Tex. 2014).
• Digital authentication in Texas: Fowler v. State, 544 S.W.3d 844 (Tex. Crim. App. 2018); Tienda v. State, 358 S.W.3d 633 (Tex. Crim. App. 2012).
• Discovery of electronic video files: Texas Rule of Civil Procedure 196.4 (ESI form/production; proportionality).  

Have You Been in a Car or Truck Accident in Texas?

Dashcam footage can be a game-changer—but only if it’s preserved and presented correctly. If you’ve been injured in a car or truck accident, don’t wait. Insurance companies and defense attorneys will act fast to minimize your claim.

📞 Contact HLAW today for a free consultation. Our experienced personal injury attorneys will review your case, secure critical evidence like dashcam video, and fight to get you the compensation you deserve.

Your first call costs nothing—and it could make all the difference in your recovery.

Expert witnesses—such as medical professionals, engineers, and accident reconstructionists—play a critical role in proving Texas personal injury claims.

How Medical, Engineering, and Accident Reconstruction Experts Can Strengthen Your Case

When you’ve been injured in an accident—whether in a car crash, trucking accident, a workplace incident, or on someone else’s property—your claim often comes down to one question: Can you prove it? In Texas personal injury cases, proving fault and the extent of your damages isn’t just about telling your story—it’s about presenting credible, persuasive evidence. That’s where expert witnesses play a critical role.

Under Texas law, an “expert” is someone who has “scientific, technical, or other specialized knowledge” that will help the judge or jury understand the evidence or determine a fact in issue (see Texas Rules of Evidence, Rule 702). These experts provide opinions grounded in their professional training and experience—opinions that can make or break your case.

1. Why Expert Witnesses Matter in Texas Personal Injury Cases

Expert witnesses are different from regular witnesses. Regular witnesses can only testify about what they personally saw, heard, or experienced. Experts, on the other hand, can:

• Analyze the cause of an accident.
• Explain complicated medical conditions.
• Interpret engineering failures or design defects.
• Reconstruct accidents to show how and why they occurred.

The Texas Supreme Court has emphasized that expert testimony must be reliable and relevant—meaning it must be based on sound methodology and actually help the factfinder (see E.I. du Pont de Nemours & Co. v. Robinson, 923 S.W.2d 549 (Tex. 1995)).

2. Types of Expert Witnesses That Can Strengthen Your Case

A. Medical Experts

In most personal injury claims, medical testimony is key to proving the nature and extent of your injuries. Medical experts can:

• Explain how an accident caused your injuries.
• Detail your required treatment and recovery time.
• Estimate the costs of ongoing or future care.
• Connect your injuries to the event, countering insurance company claims that they were “pre-existing.”

In Texas, medical causation often requires expert testimony—especially for complex or non-obvious injuries (Guevara v. Ferrer, 247 S.W.3d 662 (Tex. 2007)).

B. Engineering Experts

Engineering experts analyze structures, machinery, and environmental conditions that may have contributed to your accident. They are invaluable in:

• Slip-and-fall cases (floor friction, lighting conditions).
• Defective product cases (design flaws, manufacturing defects).
• Construction accidents (scaffolding failure, code violations).

Texas premises liability law (see Texas Civil Practice & Remedies Code § 75.002 and § 101.022) often hinges on whether a property owner knew of and failed to correct a dangerous condition—an engineering expert can help prove this.

C. Accident Reconstruction Experts

Accident reconstructionists use physics, engineering principles, and crash data to recreate the events leading up to an accident. They can:

• Analyze skid marks, debris patterns, and vehicle damage.
• Determine speed, direction, and impact points.
• Create computer simulations or visual exhibits for trial.

These experts are particularly useful in auto and trucking accident cases governed by Texas Transportation Code and federal motor carrier safety regulations.

3. How Expert Testimony Influences Texas Juries and Judges

In Texas, juries decide most personal injury cases. A well-qualified expert can help:

• Break down complicated technical language into clear explanations.
• Provide visual aids, diagrams, and 3D models to make the evidence memorable.
• Establish credibility with unbiased, fact-based opinions.

An expert’s ability to explain “why” something happened—and back it up with evidence—can dramatically strengthen your position at mediation, in settlement negotiations, or at trial.

4. The Legal Requirements for Admissible Expert Testimony

Texas courts apply a strict standard for admitting expert testimony. Rule 702 requires that:

1. The expert is qualified by knowledge, skill, experience, training, or education.
2. The testimony is based on a reliable foundation.
3. The testimony will assist the trier of fact.

Courts also apply the factors to evaluate reliability, which include:

• Testing of the expert’s theory.
• Peer review and publication.
• Potential rate of error.
• General acceptance in the relevant community.

If your attorney doesn’t choose the right expert or prepare them properly, your evidence could be excluded—leaving you without the proof you need.

5. Why You Should Consult Our Firm for Free If You’ve Been Injured And Might Need An Expert

At Howard, Lotspeich, Alexander & Williams, PLLC (HLAW), we know which experts can make the difference in your case. We regularly work with respected medical professionals, engineers, and accident reconstructionists across Texas who have the experience and credibility to stand up in court.

Here’s why consulting with us—at no cost to you—is the smartest move:

• We cover the upfront costs of hiring the right experts for your case.
• We know the local courts and judges, so we understand which experts resonate best in front of a Tarrant County and North Texas juries.
• We only get paid if we win—meaning we’re invested in making sure your case is supported by the strongest evidence possible.

Whether you’ve been in a serious car crash, trucking accident, suffered an injury on the job, or been hurt by a defective product, having the right expert testimony can be the deciding factor. Don’t take chances with your case.

Free Consultation:

If you or a loved one has been injured, contact HLAW today for a free, no-obligation case review. We’ll explain whether expert witnesses could help in your situation—and how we can put them to work for you. Call us at 817-993-9249 or fill out our online form to get started.

Insurance companies often use surveillance to monitor personal injury claimants—know your rights and how to protect your case.

How Insurance Companies Monitor Claimants and How to Protect Yourself

1. Why Do Insurance Companies Use Surveillance?

Surveillance is a frequent tool employed by insurers in personal injury cases to assess the validity of claims and guard against fraud—even in honest cases. These investigations typically target injuries that are subjective (like chronic pain or soft-tissue injuries) or claims involving large payouts  .

Insurance companies may deploy private investigators to observe claimants’ daily activities—tailing them in public, taking photos or videos, or even requesting field visits, like home visits, particularly in long-term disability or workers’ compensation claims  .

Defense counsel also rely on surveillance to challenge credibility by capturing footage suggesting the claimant is more active than their alleged injuries permit.

2. Common Surveillance Tactics in Texas

• Physical Surveillance: Private investigators may station themselves in public areas, follow claimants, or stake out known routines—all technically legal if conducted from public spaces.
• Video & Photographic Surveillance: Filming or photographing a claimant engaged in activities that contradict their medical claims (e.g., heavy lifting, sports, yard work) can be powerful evidence for insurers.
• Social Media Monitoring: Insurance companies often scour social media for posts, photos, or comments that might be leveraged against a claimant’s injury narrative.
• Interviews with Acquaintances: Insurers may contact friends, family, or neighbors to gather informal statements or observations—sometimes unintentionally undermining your case.
• Field Visits: Investigators may visit your home under the guise of follow-up, taking note of your environment or daily habits—potentially used to raise doubts about your limitations.
• Electronic Tracking: While more common in auto insurance contexts, insurers may obtain driving behavior data—sometimes collected without informed consent—and use it to assess claims or adjust premiums.
  

3. What Texas Law Allows—and Limits

• Surveillance from public spaces is generally lawful. Private property surveillance, trespassing, or recording in private areas (like inside your home) is typically prohibited.
• Video evidence could be admissible in personal injury litigation, but Texas courts typically require trial judges to review surveillance before excluding it.
• Data privacy protections in Texas are evolving: lawsuits have been filed against Allstate and GM for allegedly collecting and using driver location data without consent—potentially impacting surveillance practices in insurance.

4. How to Protect Yourself: Best Practices

1. Stay Modest in Public – Follow your doctor’s restrictions consistently. Avoid activities—even on good days—that may appear inconsistent with your injuries.
2. Limit & Secure Your Social Media – Set your accounts to private. Avoid posting about your health, recovery, or activities. Be cautious of well-intentioned friends sharing photos involving you.
3. Stick to the Facts – Don’t embellish your story to adjusters or others. Consistency is key—contradictory statements make credibility easier to attack.
4. Know What IS Protected – Investigators cannot legally record inside your home areas where you have a reasonable expectation of privacy, hack your digital accounts, or enter without consent.
5. Consult an Attorney Promptly – If you suspect you’re under surveillance, inform your attorney rather than confront anyone—lawyers can help challenge improper evidence or even turn surveillance to your advantage in negotiations or at trial.
6. Document Your Condition – Maintain clear records of medical appointments, treatments, and limitations. Having contemporaneous documentation can help counter misinterpretations of surveillance footage  .

5. Summary

Surveillance in personal injury cases is common in Texas. Insurance companies may monitor claimants physically, digitally, or through third-party reports to challenge injury claims—even legitimate ones. While much of this activity is legally permissible when carried out in public spaces, there are boundaries—especially regarding privacy violations.

Staying informed, cautious, and consistent—especially regarding your public behavior and online presence—is essential. Our attorneys at Howard Lotspeich Alexander & Williams, PLLC (HLAW) can help you navigate surveillance threats and protect your interests throughout the claims process. Contact us today for a free case evaluation and consultation.

Posting on social media during your injury case can cost you—learn the biggest mistakes to avoid.

Real-World Examples, Legal Pitfalls, and How to Protect Your Claim

In today’s connected world, social media is second nature. Whether it’s a quick photo on Instagram, a status update on Facebook, or a short video on TikTok, we often share snippets of our lives without a second thought. But if you’ve been injured in an accident in Texas and are pursuing a personal injury claim, social media can be your worst enemy.

What you post—intentionally or not—can severely damage your case. Insurance adjusters, defense attorneys, and investigators are scouring public profiles to find anything they can use to deny or reduce your compensation.

In this blog, we’ll share real-world examples of social media backfires, explain how Texas law treats social media evidence, and offer practical legal tips to avoid sabotaging your case.

How Social Media Can Harm a Personal Injury Claim

When you file a personal injury claim in Texas—whether it’s for a car crash, slip and fall, or other injury—you’re essentially stating that you’ve suffered physical, emotional, and financial harm. Any social media activity that appears to contradict those claims can be used against you.

Real Example #1: The “Weekend Warrior” Post

A Fort Worth man filed a claim after a motorcycle accident, citing serious back pain and limited mobility. However, he posted a photo on Facebook just weeks later of himself hiking with the caption, “Back at it!” Defense attorneys used the photo in court to undermine his credibility, and the jury awarded significantly less than what he sought.

Lesson: Even if your pain is manageable or the activity was staged, optics matter. A single photo can shift the entire narrative of your injury.

Relevant Law: Social Media as Admissible Evidence in Texas

Texas courts have consistently recognized social media posts as admissible evidence when relevant to a case. Under the Texas Rules of Evidence (TRE) 401 and 402, evidence is admissible if it makes a fact more or less probable than it would be without the evidence.

Furthermore, under Texas Rule of Civil Procedure 192.3, parties may obtain discovery regarding any matter that is relevant to the subject matter of the lawsuit—including digital content like social media posts.

This means if your post is even arguably related to your physical or emotional state, the opposing side can likely demand it in discovery. Courts have compelled plaintiffs to turn over private content in many Texas cases if it relates to:

• Physical condition or activities
  
• Mental or emotional state
  
• Statements about the accident or injury
  
• Posts about settlement or legal proceedings
  

Real Example #2: “Check-In” Gone Wrong

A Dallas woman claimed she was unable to return to work due to debilitating anxiety following a workplace injury. Yet she checked in on Facebook at a local comedy club and posted selfies laughing with friends. The defense used this to challenge her emotional distress claim, arguing she was socially active and enjoying life.

Her settlement offer dropped by nearly 40%.

Lesson: Check-ins, tagged photos, or casual posts can be deceptively damaging—especially when they paint a picture of normalcy or happiness inconsistent with your claims.

Legal Tip: Avoid These Common Social Media Mistakes

If you’re pursuing a personal injury claim in Texas, here are concrete ways to protect yourself online:

✅ Avoid Posting About Your Injury or Accident

Don’t share photos, updates, or opinions about your accident. Anything you say can be interpreted in a way that benefits the defense.

✅ Don’t Accept New Friend Requests

Insurance companies and defense investigators may try to access your private content by posing as someone else. Be cautious of unknown contacts.

✅ Set Your Accounts to Private—But Don’t Delete Posts

Adjust your privacy settings, but do not delete any posts after your accident. Deleting social media content during litigation could be considered destruction of evidence (spoliation) and may subject you to sanctions under Texas Rule of Civil Procedure 215.2.

✅ Tell Friends and Family Not to Post About You

Tagged photos or comments from loved ones can be just as harmful. Ask them to avoid mentioning your injury or activities.

Real Example #3: TikTok Dance Disaster

A teenager in Houston suffered a concussion after a sports-related accident and sued the school for inadequate supervision. A few weeks later, she posted a TikTok dance trend video. The school district’s attorneys cited the video to argue that she was not experiencing symptoms of dizziness or cognitive delays.

While she explained that she was “just trying to push through,” the judge found the evidence persuasive enough to reduce the award.

Protecting Your Case: What Your Attorney Needs to Know

Your attorney should be informed about your social media activity from the start. At our firm, we routinely advise clients on digital behavior and will work to protect your case from potential pitfalls.

If you’re unsure whether something could be problematic, it’s always better to ask than to post.

Final Thoughts: Your Case Is a Legal Matter, Not a Social One

In Texas personal injury cases, your words—and pictures—can absolutely come back to haunt you. What seems like a harmless post may be twisted to paint you as dishonest, exaggerating, or even fraudulent.

The best practice? Go quiet on social media until your case is resolved.

If you have been seriously injured in an accident, contact the HLAW firm today for a free case evaluation.

When your child is injured, understanding your legal options is crucial. Learn how HLAW helps families navigate child injury claims in Texas.

When a child is injured due to another’s negligence, parents are thrust into a world of emotional stress, medical decisions, and legal confusion. In Texas, personal injury claims involving children differ significantly from those involving adults—and understanding these nuances is critical to protecting your child’s rights and future.

At the HLAW law firm, we’ve represented children and families across Texas in personal injury cases. Our team understands the delicate balance between legal complexity and the care families need after a traumatic event. Below, we explain everything Texas parents should know about pursuing a child injury claim, including deadlines, guardianship requirements, settlement procedures, and court oversight.

Children Have a Right to Compensation—But Cannot File Their Own Lawsuit

In Texas, minors (individuals under age 18) lack legal capacity to file lawsuits or enter into binding legal contracts. However, Texas law does not prohibit a minor from recovering compensation for injuries caused by another person’s negligence.

Who Can File on the Child’s Behalf?

Under Texas Rule of Civil Procedure 44, a next friend (usually a parent or legal guardian) may file suit on behalf of the child. The court will also typically appoint a guardian ad litem or formal legal guardian under certain circumstances to ensure the child’s interests are fully protected.

Statute of Limitations: Special Rules for Minors

For most adult personal injury claims, the statute of limitations in Texas is two years from the date of the incident, per Texas Civil Practice & Remedies Code § 16.003(a). However, when the injured party is a minor, the timeline is different.

Tolling for Minors

Under § 16.001(a)(1) and (b), a person is under a legal disability if they are under 18. The limitations period is tolled (paused) until the minor reaches their 18th birthday.

This means the child generally has until their 20th birthday to file their claim.

BUT: Parental Claims Are Still Limited

Parents, however, are entitled to bring separate claims for:

• Medical expenses incurred before the child turns 18 (Tex. Fam. Code § 151.001(c))
• Loss of services or contribution from the child

These parental claims are not tolled and must be brought within two years of the incident.

Settlement of a Minor’s Personal Injury Claim Requires Court Approval

Texas law is particularly protective of minors’ rights, especially when it comes to settlements. Even if all parties agree to settle, a Texas court must approve the settlement before it becomes enforceable.

Tex. Estates Code § 1351.001 allows for court approval of a minor’s settlement and details when court-created accounts or guardianships of the estate are required.

The Court Approval Process:

1. File a Petition for Approval of Minor’s Settlement
2. Appointment of a Guardian Ad Litem (if required)
3. Conduct a Prove-Up Hearing
4. Court evaluates:

• Whether the settlement is fair and reasonable
• Whether proceeds are being protected for the child’s benefit
• Judge enters an order approving the settlement and disbursing funds appropriately

Courts routinely use Tex. R. Civ. P. 173 to appoint a Guardian Ad Litem when necessary.

The Role of a Guardian Ad Litem

When court approval is needed, the judge may appoint a Guardian Ad Litem—an independent attorney tasked with evaluating whether the proposed settlement is in the child’s best interest.

Tex. R. Civ. P. 173.4(c): “The guardian ad litem may participate in mediation or negotiation, and may testify or submit a report and recommendations to the court concerning the settlement.”

Their report may influence the judge’s decision significantly. This neutral third party ensures that no conflict of interest exists between the child and the parent or attorney, especially in cases involving large settlements or parental claims for reimbursement.

Important: The Guardian Ad Litem’s fees are usually paid from the settlement, and the court must also approve this fee.

Where Does the Money Go? Distributing a Minor’s Settlement

Texas law mandates protections for how a minor’s injury settlement is handled. The funds cannot simply be handed over to the parents.

Acceptable Methods of Disbursement:

• Court Registry (Estates Code § 1351.003): The funds are deposited with the court and released when the child turns 18.
• Structured Settlement Annuities: Payments begin at age 18 (or another age specified by the court) and continue periodically.
• Trust Accounts: In some cases, a special needs trust or guardianship of the estate may be necessary to preserve eligibility for benefits.

If the net recovery is over $100,000, courts often require appointment of a guardian of the child’s estate under Tex. Estates Code § 1104.001.

Medical Expenses and Insurance Subrogation

In Texas, medical bills for a minor are generally considered the legal responsibility of the parents until the child turns 18. These bills form the basis of the parents’ own personal injury claim, which is subject to the standard 2-year statute of limitations.

Also, beware of health insurance subrogation claims. Under Tex. Civ. Prac. & Rem. Code § 140.005, insurers may seek reimbursement from settlement funds for amounts they paid toward the child’s treatment, but parents may have negotiation rights to reduce this lien. An experienced Texas personal injury attorney can be crucial in the success of this process as well.

Why You Need an Experienced Attorney for a Child Injury Claim

Navigating a child injury case is not simply about negotiating with insurance companies. It requires:

• Managing dual claims for both parent and child
• Understanding court approval procedures
• Navigating guardian ad litem investigations
• Handling structured settlements and trusts
• Coordinating with insurance subrogation departments

At the HLAW law firm, our attorneys bring over years of experience handling minors’ personal injury settlements across Texas. We understand how to protect your child’s legal and financial future, and how to advocate for your family at every step.

Final Thoughts: Don’t Wait to Act

While the statute of limitations may be tolled for a child’s injury, critical evidence—such as witness statements, photographs, and medical records—can fade over time. Early legal action helps ensure the strongest possible claim and maximizes your child’s recovery.

Contact HLAW Today

If your child has suffered a serious injury, contact HLAW to speak with an experienced Texas child injury attorney and a free case evaluation. We’ll walk you through every step of the process—from investigating the claim to finalizing a court-approved settlement that protects your child’s future.

Understanding how pre-existing injuries impact personal injury cases under Texas law, including the eggshell plaintiff rule.

When you suffer an injury in Texas due to someone else’s negligence, you have the right to seek compensation, even if you had a pre-existing condition. However, insurance companies often use your prior medical history to limit or deny your claim. This is where Texas law and the “eggshell plaintiff” rule come into play.

Understanding Pre-Existing Conditions in Personal Injury Claims

A pre-existing condition refers to any medical issue or injury you had before the accident. Common examples include:

• Back or neck problems
• Arthritis
• Previous surgeries
• Degenerative disc disease
• Old fractures or soft tissue injuries

When a new accident aggravates or exacerbates these conditions, questions often arise about how much of your current injury is due to the new incident versus your prior health issues.

The Eggshell Plaintiff Rule in Texas

Under Texas law, the “eggshell plaintiff” rule protects injured victims who have pre-existing conditions. This rule is derived from common law principles and is routinely recognized by Texas courts.

The Texas Pattern Jury Charge (PJC 28.6) includes specific language on pre-existing conditions:  “If a pre-existing injury or condition was aggravated by the occurrence in question, you are to determine the amount of damages that resulted from the aggravation.”

Simply put, under the eggshell plaintiff rule, a defendant takes the plaintiff as they find them. If the defendant’s negligence causes additional harm to someone who is more susceptible to injury due to a pre-existing condition, they are still fully responsible for the entire extent of the harm caused.

Insurance Companies’ Tactics

Despite the eggshell plaintiff rule, insurance companies routinely argue that your injuries were not caused by the accident but were instead due to your pre-existing conditions. Their tactics often include:

• Requesting extensive medical records
• Hiring defense medical experts
• Arguing that only a minor aggravation occurred
• Blaming natural degeneration or aging

These arguments can significantly reduce your settlement offer if you don’t have strong legal advocacy.

Texas Law: Proximate Cause and Apportionment of Damages

In Texas, the legal concept of “proximate cause” is crucial (Texas Pattern Jury Charge PJC 2.4). The defendant is liable for injuries that are the foreseeable result of their negligence, even if the plaintiff’s pre-existing condition made the injuries worse.

However, if part of your injury was truly unrelated to the accident, the jury may apportion damages. Texas Civil Practice and Remedies Code §33.003 allows for proportionate responsibility, though this typically applies to multiple defendants rather than distinguishing between pre-existing and new injuries.

In Leitch v. Hornsby, 935 S.W.2d 114 (Tex. 1996), the Texas Supreme Court reaffirmed that defendants are liable for the full extent of harm caused by their negligence, even when pre-existing conditions make the injury worse.

Key Takeaways for Injured Texans

•  You are entitled to compensation for the full extent of your injuries, even if you had a pre-existing condition.
• The defendant cannot escape liability by arguing you were already vulnerable.
• Insurance companies will likely try to minimize your claim by focusing on your medical history.
• Having thorough medical documentation and an experienced personal injury attorney can make a significant difference.

Protecting Your Rights

If you have suffered a pre-existing injury accident in Texas, don’t let insurance companies take advantage of you. An experienced personal injury attorney can:

• Gather and present your medical evidence effectively.
• Retain medical experts to support your case.
• Ensure the jury understands how the accident aggravated your pre-existing condition.
•  Maximize your compensation under Texas law.

At the HLAW Firm, we have extensive experience dealing with complex cases involving pre-existing injuries. Contact us for a free consultation if you or a loved one has been injured.

HLAW Firm helps victims of parking lot and sidewalk injuries pursue justice under Texas premises liability law.

Sidewalks, parking lots, and other exterior areas of businesses and properties are often taken for granted. But for many personal injury victims, these seemingly ordinary places are where accidents happen. In Texas, property owners can be held legally responsible for injuries that occur on these exterior spaces under premises liability law.

Understanding Premises Liability for Exterior Areas

Texas premises liability law is governed primarily by common law principles and influenced by the Texas Supreme Court’s decisions, such as Corbin v. Safeway Stores, Inc., 648 S.W.2d 292 (Tex. 1983), and Keetch v. Kroger Co., 845 S.W.2d 262 (Tex. 1992). These cases establish that property owners and occupiers have a duty to maintain their premises in a reasonably safe condition and warn of known dangers.

While many associate premises liability with incidents inside buildings, Texas law applies the same principles to exterior areas, including:

• Sidewalks
  
• Parking lots
  
• Driveways
  
• Entryways
  
• Outdoor common spaces
  

Who Is Responsible for Sidewalks and Parking Lots?

Liability depends on ownership and control:

• Private Property Owners: Businesses, shopping centers, apartment complexes, and private property owners are generally responsible for maintaining their sidewalks, parking lots, and driveways. See CMH Homes, Inc. v. Daenen, 15 S.W.3d 97 (Tex. 2000).
  
• Public Entities: If a sidewalk or parking lot is owned or maintained by a governmental entity, sovereign immunity laws apply under the Texas Tort Claims Act (TTCA), Texas Civil Practice & Remedies Code Chapter 101. This law provides limited waivers of immunity but imposes strict notice requirements and damage caps.
  
• Shared Responsibility: Property managers, tenants, or contractors may share liability depending on contractual obligations and control over the premises.
  

Common Exterior Hazards Leading to Injury

Some of the most frequent causes of sidewalk and parking lot injuries in Texas include:

• Uneven or cracked pavement
  
• Potholes
  
• Loose gravel or debris
  
• Poor lighting leading to inadequate visibility
  
• Inadequate drainage causing slick surfaces
  
• Missing or poorly marked curbs or steps
  
• Failure to address ice, snow, or standing water (though Texas rarely deals with ice, occasional winter storms can create hazards)
  

Legal Standard: The Duty Owed to Visitors

Under Texas law, the duty owed depends on the status of the injured person:

• Invitees (business customers, tenants, guests): Property owners owe the highest duty of care. They must inspect the property and either remedy dangerous conditions or warn of their existence. See Wal-Mart Stores, Inc. v. Gonzalez, 968 S.W.2d 934 (Tex. 1998).
  
• Licensees (social guests): Property owners owe a duty to warn of known dangerous conditions that are not obvious.
  
• Trespassers: Generally, the duty is minimal, though landowners cannot willfully or wantonly cause harm.
  

Proving Liability in Texas Parking Lot and Sidewalk Injury Cases

To succeed in a premises liability claim for a parking lot injury or sidewalk trip fall liability in Texas, the injured party typically must prove:

1. The property owner had actual or constructive knowledge of the dangerous condition.
   
2. The condition posed an unreasonable risk of harm.
   
3. The property owner failed to take reasonable steps to reduce or eliminate the risk.
   
4. The failure directly caused the injury.
   

Constructive knowledge can be established by showing the condition existed long enough that the owner should have discovered it through reasonable inspection. This standard was clarified in Brookshire Grocery Co. v. Taylor, 222 S.W.3d 406 (Tex. 2006).

Challenges in Sidewalk and Parking Lot Cases

These cases often hinge on:

• Photographs or video of the hazard
  
• Maintenance logs and inspection reports
  
• Witness statements
  
• Expert testimony (engineering reports, lighting studies, or building code violations)
  

In urban areas, municipal codes may establish maintenance standards that can strengthen a negligence claim if violated.

Governmental Claims: Special Considerations

Claims against a governmental entity in Texas face unique hurdles under the TTCA:

• Plaintiffs must provide written notice of the claim within six months of the injury (or less if required by local charter).
  
• Damages are capped ($250,000 per person/$500,000 per occurrence for state entities).
  
• The plaintiff must prove actual knowledge of the dangerous condition by the governmental unit.
  

Statute of Limitations in Texas

Under Texas Civil Practice & Remedies Code Section 16.003, the general statute of limitations for personal injury claims is two years from the date of injury. Prompt action is crucial, especially in cases involving public entities due to additional notice requirements.

Damages Available

In a successful premises liability case, injured victims may recover damages for:

• Medical expenses
  
• Lost wages
  
• Pain and suffering
  
• Permanent impairment or disability
  
• Future medical care needs
  

Why Exterior Premises Liability Claims Matter

Sidewalk and parking lot injuries can result in serious harm: fractures, head trauma, spinal injuries, or even lifelong disabilities. Property owners must take reasonable steps to protect visitors not only inside but also outside their buildings.

At Howard Lotspeich Alexander & Williams, PLLC (HLAW), we understand the complexities of Texas premises liability law. If you or a loved one has been injured in a sidewalk or parking lot accident, don’t wait. Contact our experienced personal injury attorneys today for a free consultation and let us fight for the justice you deserve.