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Parks Law PLLC: Technical Mastery for Complex Texas Injury Cases

Personal Injury Claims in Texas

Defending Your Future: Navigating Personal Injury Claims in Texas

Personal injury claims can be complex, financially costly, and emotionally taxing. Whether you were injured on the job or due to someone else’s negligence, securing fair compensation is essential to protecting your future. Houston, Texas, is a hub for industries such as oil and gas, marine operations, and manufacturing – accidents are a common unfortunate reality. However, with experienced legal representation, victims can hold responsible parties accountable and recover damages.

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Meet Ryan Parks: Founder & Attorney

What Is a Personal Injury Claim?

A personal injury claim arises when a person becomes a victim of an assault on their health. These cases often involve physical injuries, but they can also include emotional suffering, medical costs, or a diminished quality of life. Combatting these crimes means protecting an individual’s health as well as other objects. The purpose of a personal injury lawsuit is to obtain compensation for losses suffered by the victim, and the liable party must be held accountable as well.

In Texas, personal injury laws provide specific rules for filing claims, including statutes of limitation. Victims typically have only two years from the date of the incident to file a lawsuit. Failure to act within that time can result in a complete loss of compensation and liability. This critical deadline emphasizes the importance of seeking legal advice immediately after an accident. The aftermath of an injury can be chaotic, but starting the legal process as soon as possible allows your lawyer to gather important evidence, interview witnesses while their memories are still fresh, and begin building a strong case for liability and compensation. Additionally, some cases may have exceptions to the standard two-year deadline, such as injuries that are not immediately obvious, which a knowledgeable lawyer can handle effectively.

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    Types of Personal Injury Cases We Handle

    At Parks Law PLLC, we specialize in handling some of the most complex and high-risk personal injury cases, especially those arising in the energy sector. Our practice areas include:

    1. Oilfield Accidents

    The Texas oil fields contain many hazards, including well blowouts, hydraulic fracturing accidents, and refinery explosions, which can lead to injuries such as burns, fractures, amputations, and even death. Our team has years of experience in the oil and gas industry and understands both the technical aspects and the legal intricacies associated with these incidents. These accidents often involve multiple parties, including equipment manufacturers, subcontractors, and site operators, creating a complex web of potential liability.

    To determine the cause of the accident, it is essential to conduct a thorough investigation. This investigation should consider factors such as faulty machinery, improper safety protocols, inadequate training, and corporate cost-cutting measures. We work with a network of industry experts who can help us dissect the incident and determine where the chain of responsibility breaks down. This allows us to identify the specific party or parties responsible for the accident and take appropriate action.

    Learn More About Oilfield Accidents

    2. Maritime & Offshore Injuries

    Houston’s proximity to the Gulf Coast makes it a major hub for maritime activities that come with unique risks. From offshore drilling accidents to platform incidents, workers face extreme conditions on a daily basis. Under federal laws like the Jones Act, injured seafarers and offshore platform workers have special protections. Our attorneys are well-versed in managing these risks, ensuring that maritime workers are fairly compensated if they are injured.

    The legal system in this area is a combination of state and federal laws. The Jones Act allows injured sailors to sue their employers for negligence, while the Longshore and Harbor Workers’ Compensation Act (LHWCA) covers other workers in the maritime industry. Determining the appropriate legal framework is a crucial first step in these cases. In addition, the concept of “unseaworthiness,” which holds vessel owners responsible for the unfit condition of their ships, provides another path for recovery that requires specialized knowledge to successfully pursue.

    3. Industrial Catastrophic Injuries

    Beyond the energy sector, Texas has a wide range of manufacturing, chemical and construction industries that can lead to catastrophic injuries. These include electrocution, falls from heights, crane accidents, and exposure to toxic substances. These incidents often result in traumatic brain injuries, spinal cord damage, and severe respiratory illnesses, which not only require extensive medical intervention, including surgeries and rehabilitation, but also significantly affect a person’s ability to work and enjoy life. Our approach takes into account not only the immediate medical costs but also the projected lifetime care costs, lost future earnings, and the significant impact on the individual’s family and quality of life.

    4. Wrongful Death

    The loss of a loved one due to someone’s negligence has devastating consequences. Although no amount of money can bring a family member back to life, unfair death lawsuits can help family members deal with financial problems and achieve justice. Our lawyers accompany the client at every stage of the process, providing the necessary support during this difficult stage.

    In Texas, a wrongful death claim can be filed by the surviving spouse, children, or parents of the deceased person. These claims seek compensation for tangible losses, such as lost financial support and inheritance, as well as intangible losses, like loss of companionship and emotional support. At the same time, a separate “survival action” can be taken to cover the pain and suffering that the victim experienced before passing away and any medical expenses they incurred. Navigating these two types of claims requires careful attention to ensure that the family receives complete and fair compensation according to the law.

    Navigating Personal Injury Claims in Texas

    Texas has its own set of rules and procedures governing personal injury claims, so it’s important to work with a lawyer who is familiar with local laws. Here are the main aspects to consider:

    Comparative Negligence Rule

    According to Texas law, if the injured party shares any blame for the accident, their compensation will be reduced. For example, if you are found partially guilty of 20% of the fault, your total compensation will decrease by that percentage. This emphasizes the importance of proving maximum liability on the part of the defendant.

    Caps on Damages

    Certain types of damage, such as non-economic damage (pain and suffering), may have limitations depending on the nature of the case. An experienced lawyer will ensure that all acceptable damages are taken into account.

    Insurance Company Tactics

    Insurance companies can often use tactics to minimize payments. They may pressure victims into accepting low compensation. Having legal representation ensures your rights are protected.

    Why Choose Parks Law PLLC?

    When choosing a personal injury attorney, experience is essential. At Parks Law PLLC, we have accumulated almost two decades of legal experience and a deep understanding of the oil and gas industry. Attorney Ryan Parks comes from a fourth-generation family of energy professionals, allowing him to approach your case with a unique perspective. His expertise in petroleum engineering and geology enables him to analyze complex technical issues and build strong arguments on behalf of his clients.

    Our firm exclusively focuses on representing the interests of affected workers, landowners, and families who have been affected by negligence in the energy sector. Unlike larger firms, which juggle different areas of practice, we are fully committed to personal injury and wrongful death cases, ensuring individual attention and unwavering dedication.

    Protect Your Future

    At Parks Law PLLC, we believe that everyone deserves a chance to fight for their future. If you have been injured as a result of an oilfield accident, marine incident or industrial disaster, don’t wait to seek help. Contact us today for a free consultation where we will evaluate your situation and outline a tailored strategy for your needs.

    Remember, time is crucial. Swift action not only preserves evidence, but also ensures compliance with the Texas statute of limitations. Let us shoulder the burden of your legal battle so that you can focus on healing and moving forward.

    Managing a personal injury claim in Texas requires skills, determination, and insider knowledge of the industries involved. At Parks Law PLLC, we are prepared to protect your future from powerful corporations and insurance companies. With a proven track record and a passion for justice, we stand here to fight for you. Do not let negligence determine your tomorrow – contact us today and take the first step towards recovering your life.

    Common Personal Injuries FAQs

    How long do I have to file a personal injury lawsuit in Texas?

    In most cases, you have two years from the date of the accident or injury to file a lawsuit. This is known as the statute of limitations. If you miss this deadline, you will almost certainly be barred from seeking compensation through the court system. There are very rare exceptions, so it is imperative to consult with an attorney immediately to protect your claim.

    What if I was partially at fault for my accident? Can I still recover damages?

    Yes, you may still recover damages under Texas’s modified comparative negligence rule. However, your total compensation will be reduced by your percentage of fault. For example, if you are awarded $100,000 but found 10% at fault, you will receive $90,000. Critically, if you are found to be 51% or more responsible, you cannot recover any compensation. This rule makes it essential to have an attorney who can effectively counter allegations of shared fault.

    What types of compensation can I recover in a personal injury case?

    You may be entitled to both economic and non-economic damages. Economic damages are quantifiable losses like past and future medical expenses, lost wages, loss of earning capacity, and property damage. Non-economic damages compensate for intangible harms like pain and suffering, emotional distress, physical impairment, disfigurement, and loss of companionship or consortium (in wrongful death cases).

    How does the Jones Act differ from standard workers’ compensation for maritime workers?

    The Jones Act is a federal law that allows qualified “seamen” (crew members spending a significant amount of time on a vessel in navigation) to sue their employer for negligence that caused their injury. This is different from standard state workers’ comp, which typically provides benefits regardless of fault but prohibits suing the employer. A Jones Act claim can seek damages for pain and suffering and full lost wages, which are generally not available under standard workers’ comp, making it a crucial distinction for offshore workers.

    What should I do immediately after an accident or injury?

    Your priorities are health, evidence, and legal protection. First, seek immediate medical attention, even if you feel fine, as some injuries manifest later. Second, report the accident to your supervisor or the property owner. Third, document everything: take photos of the scene, your injuries, and any hazardous conditions; get contact information for witnesses. Fourth, avoid giving statements to insurance adjusters or signing anything before speaking with a lawyer. Finally, consult with a personal injury attorney as soon as possible to understand your rights.

    How much does it typically cost to hire a personal injury attorney in Texas?

    The vast majority of personal injury attorneys, including those specializing in complex industrial cases, work on a contingency fee basis. This means you pay no upfront attorneys’ fees. The attorney’s fee is a pre-agreed percentage (typically one-third of the recovery, though it can vary) that is only collected if and when they successfully secure a settlement or court award for you. This structure aligns the attorney’s interests with yours and ensures access to legal representation regardless of your current financial situation following an injury.

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