FAQs

If you’ve been involved in a car accident in Texas, one of your first concerns might be how long that incident will stay on your record—and how it could affect your insurance rates, driving privileges, and legal standing. The answer depends on which “record” we’re talking about. In Texas, an accident can show up on multiple records, including your driving record, insurance history, and police or court records. Each has its own timeline. Here’s what you need to know. Texas Driving Record: 3 to 5 Years In Texas, most car accidents will stay on your driving record for three years…

The Eagle Ford Shale region in South Texas has become a major hub for oil and gas production—and with that growth comes a surge in heavy truck traffic. Unfortunately, this boom has also led to an alarming increase in serious truck accidents. Whether you’re a resident, a worker commuting to the oilfields, or a traveler passing through, understanding the unique risks and legal issues in this area can help you stay safe and protect your rights. The Scale of the Problem Recent TxDOT figures show that among major oil and gas producing regions, the Eagle Ford Shale saw more than…

I’ll be honest: if you’re dealing with a truck accident in Austin, the insurance company’s priority isn’t your recovery—it’s protecting their bottom line. They run well-worn playbooks to minimize payouts, and if you don’t know how to counter, they’ll steamroll you. Step 1: Quick Reports, Quicker Investigations As soon as a claim is filed, adjusters jump into action—reviewing police reports, interviewing witnesses, and pulling data from the truck’s event recorder. While you’re focusing on recovery, they’re already laying groundwork to limit what they’ll pay. The Texas Department of Insurance (TDI) oversees how insurers must handle claims and enforces rules meant…

If you’re reading this, you or someone you care about was likely in a collision with a commercial truck. I’m Joe Lopez, and I’ll be blunt: the injuries from an 80,000-pound vehicle don’t look anything like a typical fender-bender. They’re severe, often permanent, and they rarely resolve “on their own.” Here’s what I see most often—and why you shouldn’t downplay any of it. Head and Traumatic Brain Injuries (TBI) Head trauma is common in truck crashes. The force can cause concussions, skull fractures, and more serious traumatic brain injuries that alter cognition, memory, balance, mood, and sleep. Symptoms are easy…

Truck accidents can be some of the most devastating crashes on Austin’s roads. Between I-35 traffic jams, busy local delivery routes, and heavy commercial transport through Central Texas, collisions involving big rigs, box trucks, and 18-wheelers are unfortunately all too common. According to NHTSA’s large truck crash statistics, accidents involving large trucks account for a significant percentage of roadway fatalities nationwide. One of the most important questions after a truck accident is: Who is legally responsible? The answer isn’t always straightforward. Multiple parties may share liability, and determining fault often requires a detailed investigation. Why Liability Matters in a Truck…

If you’ve been involved in a truck accident in Austin, one of your first concerns may be whether you can afford legal representation. According to the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration, large truck crashes resulted in over 5,000 fatalities in recent years, making quality legal representation crucial.” The good news is that truck accident lawyers in Austin typically work on a contingency fee basis, making quality legal representation accessible regardless of your financial situation. The Contingency Fee Model Most Austin truck accident attorneys handle cases on a contingency fee basis, a practice regulated by the Texas State Bar Association to…

If you’ve been involved in a truck accident in Austin, Texas, you may be facing a whirlwind of challenges—physical injuries, emotional trauma, mounting medical bills, and the daunting prospect of dealing with insurance companies. Navigating the aftermath of a truck accident can be overwhelming, especially when large commercial vehicles are involved. Hiring an experienced Austin truck accident lawyer, such as those at Joe Lopez Law, can make a significant difference in the outcome of your case. Here’s why enlisting a specialized attorney is critical for your truck accident claim. Understanding the Complexity of Truck Accident Cases Truck accidents differ significantly…

If you’ve been involved in a truck accident in Texas, one of the most pressing questions you might have is: How long do I have to file a claim? Timing is critical in these cases, as Texas law imposes strict deadlines for pursuing compensation related to injuries, property damage, or wrongful death. Missing these deadlines can mean losing your right to seek justice altogether. This guide will break down the filing deadlines (also called the “statute of limitations”), explain important exceptions, and outline why acting quickly can significantly improve your chances of a successful claim. Texas Statute of Limitations for…

Austin, Texas, stands as one of the fastest-growing cities in the U.S., fueling both its economic vitality and traffic congestion. With an increasing number of freight trucks navigating highways like I‑35, MoPac (Loop 1), US 183, and SH 71, the stage is set for truck accidents—some of which result in severe injury or loss of life. Understanding the root causes is essential for improving safety. 1. Congested Highways & Urban Growth Austin’s rapid development has led to a surge in both personal and commercial vehicle traffic. On corridors like I‑35, which averages about 2,300 crashes annually and roughly 23 fatalities per year since…

When an unexpected injury occurs in Texas, understanding whether it qualifies as a personal injury case is crucial for seeking justice and compensation. Personal injury cases encompass a wide range of incidents, from car accidents to workplace injuries, but not every injury automatically qualifies. Choosing the right legal representation can help clarify whether your situation meets the criteria for a valid claim. Joe Lopez, an experienced Austin-based personal injury lawyer, helps explain what constitutes a personal injury case in Texas and how to navigate the process effectively. Defining Personal Injury Cases in Texas In Texas, a personal injury case arises…