Texas Car Accident Laws You Need to Know in 2026

If you were in a wreck in Texas it can be confusing and stressful. You must try to protect your legal rights from the first moment after a crash. Knowing Texas car accident laws before you need them can change the outcome of your case. This guide breaks down the most important rules and timelines you need in 2026.

We stand up for injured people and their families. Our goal is to help you understand your rights and what comes next after a collision. If you need help from a car accident lawyer in Corpus Christi call us.

How Texas Handles Car Accident Claims

Texas is an at-fault state for car accidents. This means the driver who causes a crash can be liable for damages to others. Fault matters for insurance and legal claims. Insurance companies and courts will look closely at evidence to decide who was responsible.

Texas Uses Modified Comparative Fault

Texas uses a modified comparative fault rule. Under this rule you can still recover compensation even if you share some blame. But if you are found more than 50% at fault you may lose your right to recover at all. Your award is reduced in proportion to how much you are deemed at fault.

What This Means In Real Life

• If you are 10% at fault, your compensation is reduced by 10% 
• If you are 40% at fault, your compensation is reduced by 40% 
• If you are 51% at fault, you recover nothing

This rule is one reason evidence matters so much from the beginning.

Reporting a Car Accident in Texas

Texas law requires drivers to report certain accidents. You must contact law enforcement if there are injuries or death. You also must report the crash if property damage appears to exceed $1000. A crash report becomes critical evidence in insurance claims and lawsuits. Always report to police and keep your copy of the report.

What To Do At The Scene

If you are physically able, focus on safety first. Use these steps as a checklist:

• Call 911 and request police and medical help 
• Take photos of the vehicles, roadway, traffic signs, and skid marks 
• Get the other driver’s name, contact information, and insurance details 
• Ask witnesses for names and phone numbers 
• Avoid arguing about fault at the scene

Minimum Insurance Requirements in Texas

Every driver in Texas must carry the state minimum liability insurance. These limits are $30,000 per person, $60,000 per accident, and $25,000 for property damage. These minimums only cover other people’s injuries and damage. They do not pay for your own medical bills or vehicle repairs unless you have additional coverage.

Why Minimum Coverage Often Is Not Enough

In serious crashes, medical care can become expensive fast. A single ER visit, imaging, and follow-up treatment can exceed the minimum limits. We often see cases where the at-fault driver has no insurance or only minimum insurance. Sometimes the insurance company denies liability. This is why uninsured motorist and underinsured motorist coverage can matter.

Your Responsibilities After a Crash

After a wreck you have duties under Texas law. You must stop at the scene and exchange information with other drivers. You must also render aid if someone is injured and call 911 if medical help is needed. Reporting the accident when required is also part of your responsibility. Failing to meet these duties can hurt your insurance claim and court case.

What Not To Do

Avoid common mistakes after a crash:

• Leaving the scene 
• Saying you are “fine” if you are not sure 
• Signing anything from an insurance adjuster without legal advice 
• Posting about the accident on social media

Statute of Limitations

Time limits matter in Texas. The statute of limitations for filing a personal injury or property damage lawsuit after a crash is generally two years from the date of the accident. If you miss this deadline you may lose your right to file a case in court forever.

Why Waiting Can Hurt Your Case

Even if two years feels like a long time, evidence disappears quickly. Video footage gets deleted. Witnesses become hard to find. Vehicles get repaired. Injury symptoms become harder to connect to the crash. If you think you may need a claim, talk to a lawyer early.

What Evidence Matters Most

Strong evidence gives you the best chance of success. Insurance companies and defense attorneys review evidence to decide who is at fault and how much they will pay. Poor documentation weakens your case.

The Most Important Evidence In Most Cases

• Police crash report 
• Photos of the scene and vehicles 
• Medical records and treatment history 
• Witness contact information 
• Proof of lost wages and out-of-pocket costs

Medical records matter more than most people realize. Insurance companies often argue you were not really hurt, you had a pre-existing condition, or you waited too long to seek care. Getting treatment and following medical advice can protect both your health and your claim. If you need help, a Corpus Christi, Texas accident attorney can guide you on what documentation matters.

Types of Damages You May Recover

In a car accident claim you may seek compensation for both financial losses and the impact the injury has on your life.

Economic Damages

Economic damages are measurable financial losses, such as:

• Emergency room and hospital bills 
• Surgery and physical therapy 
• Prescription medications 
• Future medical care 
• Vehicle repairs or total loss value 
• Lost wages 
• Loss of future earning capacity

Non-Economic Damages

Non-economic damages can include:

• Pain and suffering 
• Mental anguish 
• Loss of enjoyment of life 
• Physical impairment

Punitive Damages In Rare Cases

Punitive damages may apply when the at-fault driver acted with gross negligence. Examples may include intoxicated driving, extreme speeding, or reckless behavior with known risk. An experienced auto accident attorney in Corpus Christi, TX can explain what damages apply to your case.

Insurance Company Tactics You Need to Know

Insurance companies seek to pay as little as possible. They may:

• Ask you to give a recorded statement soon after the accident 
• Imply a quick settlement is the best outcome 
• Claim shared fault to reduce your payout 
• Request broad medical authorizations

You do not have to give a recorded statement without a lawyer present.

Why Quick Settlements Can Be Dangerous

A fast offer is often made before you finish treatment. You may not know the full extent of the injury. Doctors may not know whether you will need surgery. Once you settle, you usually cannot go back for more money. A skilled car accident lawyer in Corpus Christi can stand up to these tactics and handle negotiations on your behalf.

When You Should Talk to an Attorney

You should call a lawyer right away if:

• You suffered serious injuries 
• The insurance company denies your claim 
• The other driver disputes fault 
• You are not offered a fair settlement 
• You face long-term medical care or lost income 
• The crash involves a commercial vehicle or company driver

How We Help You Navigate Texas Law

Texas car accident law is complex. Mistakes can cost you both time and money. A qualified Corpus Christi, Texas accident attorney will review your case early, gather evidence, and handle communications with insurance companies. We advise you on fault, damages, and deadlines. If the insurance company refuses to be fair, we can take the case to trial.

Your legal rights deserve protection. Do not let the insurance company define your recovery on its terms.

Our Team Helps Protect Your Rights

Texas has specific rules that govern what happens after a car accident in 2026. Knowing how fault works, meeting deadlines, and documenting your case prepares you for a stronger claim. Reporting the crash, meeting insurance requirements, and seeking legal help early makes a difference.

If your case involves serious injuries or complex issues, our team at Bandas Law Firm is here to help you protect your rights and pursue full compensation.