What To Do If Someone Sues You for a Car Accident in Texas

Being sued after a crash can be stressful, especially if you’re unsure what steps to take. Knowing what to do if someone sues you for a car accident in Texas is critical to avoiding costly mistakes. 

In Texas, hiring a personal attorney is advisable if you’re facing a lawsuit over a car accident, it’s important to contact an attorney right away, along with your insurance company. 

We at the Monsour Law Firm offer to protect your rights, build a strong defense, and secure your financial stability during the process.

Contact a Car Accident Attorney Near You

Free case consultation Call us: (903) 999-9999

Insurance Requirements in Texas

Texas law requires drivers to prove they can cover the costs of accidents they cause. Most people do this by purchasing auto liability insurance. According to the Texas Department of Insurance, this coverage pays for the other party’s injuries or vehicle damage when you’re at fault. The minimum required coverage includes:

• $30,000 for each injured person
• $60,000 per accident for all injuries
• $25,000 for property damage

These legal minimums often fall short in serious crashes. If damages exceed your policy, the injured party may sue for the difference. Higher policy limits can offer better financial protection.

Can You Still Face a Lawsuit After a Wreck When Insured?

Yes, insurance doesn’t prevent someone from suing you. Even with coverage, you can still be taken to court if the other party believes your insurer didn’t fully pay or denied part of their claim. If damages exceed your policy limits, they may sue to recover the difference.

Disputes over fault can also lead to lawsuits, especially when details are unclear or multiple drivers are involved. While your insurer may provide a lawyer, their goal is to protect their bottom line, not yours.

That’s why it’s crucial to understand what to do if someone sues you for a car accident in Texas. Hiring a personal injury attorney gives you someone focused on your defense, helping reduce your risk, and guiding you through every step.

Actions to Take After Receiving an Auto Accident Summons

Once you’re served with legal papers, the law gives you a limited time to respond. Failure to respond may result in a default judgment. According to the Federal Rules of Civil Procedure, a proper summons must include the name of the court, the involved parties, a response deadline, and the plaintiff’s contact information. 

It must be signed and sealed by the court clerk, and one is required for each defendant. Courts may also allow corrections if the summons needs to be amended. Here’s what you should do:

• Read the documents carefully. Check the names, deadline, and court location.
• Send the paperwork to your insurer immediately. Ask about legal defense through your coverage.
• Contact a personal injury lawyer. Don’t rely solely on an attorney assigned by your insurance company.
• Gather supporting documents. Collect photos, witness statements, medical records, and the crash report.
• Avoid contact with the plaintiff. Anything you say or post publicly can be used in court.

Best Practices to Protect Yourself from Auto Accident Claims

Certain steps taken immediately after an accident can reduce your legal vulnerability later. Make sure to do the following:

1. Call the police. A formal accident report creates a neutral record of events.
2. Take clear photos. Capture the damage, road conditions, license plates, and injuries.
3. Exchange insurance details. Get accurate contact and policy information.
4. Get medical attention. Document even minor injuries.
5. Avoid admitting fault. Let investigators determine liability based on evidence.

Staying calm and collecting strong documentation supports your defense if legal action follows. If you’re sued, your attorney can use this material to help challenge or minimize the claim.

Some drivers assume their insurance provider will handle everything, but insurers are focused on limiting payouts. Having independent legal support ensures your defense strategy is based on your priorities, not theirs.

Speak with a Texas Car Accident Lawyer Today

If you’ve been served with a lawsuit after a car accident in Tyler or anywhere in East Texas, The Monsour Law Firm is here to help. 

Our legal team understands what to do if someone sues you for a car accident in Texas and how to protect you from court rulings that could affect your future. 

Call us at (903) 999-9999 to schedule your free consultation and speak with a car accident lawyer who puts your interests first.