KTC Law Firm

5 steps that protect the rights of pedestrians after a crash

2026-05-25T19:02:47Z

Pedestrians have certain rights after a crash, especially when a driver was clearly at fault for the incident at issue. They may have the right to file an insurance claim or to take legal action against the driver who hit them. Many injured pedestrians take for granted that the law is on their side and that securing compensation should be a simple matter. However, the people responsible for pedestrian collisions and the companies that insure those drivers are often eager to avoid liability and deny injured pedestrians the financial compensation they deserve. Injured pedestrians need to act promptly after a crash to protect themselves and their rights, including the right to hold the driver at fault financially accountable. What steps can help pedestrians to pursue compensation after a crash?

1. Call 911 for immediate support

Pedestrians can sustain life-threatening injuries in a crash. They may need immediate support. They also do not have a vehicle to protect them from aggressive, angry drivers. Calling emergency services is an important first step after a car-pedestrian crash.

2. Gather evidence from the scene

Evidence about the crash can establish fault. Contact information for witnesses, photographs of the crash scene and details about the driver all help ensure that an injured pedestrian can pursue the compensation they need after a collision.

3. File a police report

Ensuring there is an official record of the incident is critical for a pedestrian’s protection. Even if a driver promises to cover costs directly, failing to file a police report could make it all but impossible to hold them to their word. Police reports help validate that an incident occurred and serve as evidence that the driver was likely at fault for the crash. Any crash with injuries requires a formal police report under Texas law.

4. Undergo medical evaluation

Some people who get knocked down by vehicles don't notice injuries immediately. They may have internal bleeding or a brain injury that takes time to produce symptoms. When medical evaluations occur shortly after a pedestrian crash and treatment begins promptly, there is less opportunity for the driver at fault or their insurance company to claim that some other incident was the true cause of the pedestrian’s injuries.

5. Take a break from social media

Pictures of injuries and requests for assistance on social media may receive plenty of attention after a pedestrian crash. However, any information shared online could end up used as evidence about the claim in the future. Injured pedestrians may need to stay off social media entirely until they resolve the matter. They also need to talk to a lawyer, especially if a driver’s insurance company wants them to provide a recorded statement. An attorney can help injured pedestrians avoid common errors when communicating with insurance companies. Knowing how to handle a pedestrian crash can protect people from lasting financial devastation. Pedestrians who know how to respond to a traffic incident put themselves in the best position possible to hold unsafe drivers accountable.

How to document evidence after a slip-and-fall accident

2026-03-19T13:40:22Z

A sudden fall on a slick floor or uneven pavement can change a life in seconds. Immediate action remains a crucial way to protect any legal rights after such an injury. What are the necessary steps to secure the evidence required to prove a slip-and-fall injury?

Capture visual proof of the hazard

Visual evidence serves as the foundation of any injury claim. It is critical to take high-quality photos of the hazard that caused the fall, such as a spilled liquid or a broken walkway. Wide shots can also provide context of the surroundings while close-ups highlight the danger itself.

Identify and interview onsite witnesses

In addition, neutral third parties can provide accounts of an accident. A victim should identify anyone who saw the fall or observed the dangerous condition before the incident occurred. It is essential to collect the names and phone numbers of these individuals so that they can provide statements later if the property owner disputes the facts.

File an official incident report

Furthermore, it is critical to notify the property manager or business owner after a fall occurs. One should insist that the manager creates a written incident report and provides a physical or digital copy before leaving the premises. This document can establish a formal timeline and prevent the property owner from claiming they had no notice of the event.

Preserve physical and digital evidence

Finally, preserving physical and digital evidence serves as the primary way to prove the validity of a claim to an insurance adjuster, a jury or a judge. One must secure items like scuffed shoes and send a formal spoliation letter to prevent the business from deleting relevant surveillance footage. Additionally, gathering medical records can prove the health impacts of the injury for the legal record. Texas law mandates a strict two-year statute of limitations, making early evidence preservation vital for a timely filing.

Pursuing justice and fair compensation

Documenting evidence builds a bridge between an accident and the possibility of future stability. However, holding a party accountable for a slip-and-fall injury can be daunting and complex. With legal guidance, a victim may better protect their interests and rights as they pursue justice and fair compensation.

The hidden costs of traumatic brain injuries for families

2025-07-29T21:37:51Z

Traumatic brain injuries (TBIs) can have a profound impact on individuals and their families. While the immediate medical costs are often staggering, the hidden costs of these injuries can place an unexpected and significant burden on a family’s finances, emotions, and future stability. Understanding these costs is crucial for families navigating the aftermath of a TBI.

Financial Strain Beyond Medical Bills

Medical bills for emergency care, surgeries, and ongoing treatments are only the beginning for many TBI survivors. Families must also consider the expense of long-term rehabilitation, physical therapy, cognitive therapies, and potential in-home care. Additionally, modifications to the home, such as wheelchair ramps or special accommodations, may add to the financial strain. Even something as simple as transportation can become a costly hurdle if the injured individual can no longer drive.

Often overlooked are the income-related losses. If the injured party was the primary breadwinner or contributed significantly to household income, a TBI could leave families grappling with both short-term financial instability and long-term retirement or savings gaps.

The Emotional Toll on Families

The effects of a TBI frequently extend beyond the physical realm. Personality changes, memory problems, and difficulties with emotional regulation are common in TBI survivors. These challenges can alter relationships within the family, leaving loved ones feeling isolated and frustrated.

Caregivers, who are often spouses or parents, may experience burnout as they balance caregiving responsibilities with work and other obligations. For younger family members, the emotional toll of watching a loved one struggle with a brain injury can influence their school performance and social development.

Seeking Support to Alleviate the Burden

Families affected by TBIs should not face these challenges alone. Legal support can help secure compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, and other costs associated with a TBI. While no amount of money can fully restore the life a family once had, it can provide stability and access to resources that make recovery and adaptation easier.

If your family is grappling with the consequences of a TBI caused by someone else’s negligence, we at [nap_names id="FIRM-NAME-1"] are here to help. Contact us today by filling out our contact form or calling [nap_phone id="LOCAL-CT-NUMBER-1"]. We’re committed to helping families in Houston and beyond get the support and justice they deserve.

Change in intoxication manslaughter law can help kids left behind

2025-08-11T08:03:39Z

A crash that causes a fatality doesn’t just affect the victim. It also changes the lives of their loved ones forever. This is particularly true when those loved ones are children. Too often fatal crashes are caused by people who choose to get behind the wheel while they are impaired by alcohol and/or drugs. That’s why, last year, Texas enacted a law that renders those convicted of intoxication manslaughter financially responsible for the children of their victims. Specifically, when the victim of a crash caused by another’s intoxication was the parent or legal guardian of a minor child, one of the penalties ordered by the judge (which can include up to two decades in prison) is to make restitution or support payments to any children left behind. These payments are to continue until a child reaches 18 (or 19 if they’re still in high school). If the at-fault driver can’t afford to make the ordered payments while they’re locked up, they have up to a year after they’re released to begin making them. They’re also not off the hook for those years they would have had to pay if they hadn’t been incarcerated – even if the child is an adult when they’re released. According to the law, the payments must cover “all arrearages regardless of whether the restitution payments were scheduled to terminate while the defendant was confined….”

How is the amount of restitution determined?

The amount to be paid is determined by a judge based on a number of factors, including the defendant’s resources, the surviving parent or guardian’s resources, the child’s standard of living before the crash and the needs of the child. These can include living expenses as well as educational, emotional and medical needs. A child who has lost a parent or guardian can require a lot of support to recover financially from that loss. Typically, the court sets up a monthly plan that requires the payments to go through the court. This lets families avoid contact with the person who killed their loved one. This law can help surviving family members obtain compensation for the children they’re now responsible for without having to file a lawsuit to obtain it. Of course, there are still many other situations that can warrant a legal claim, or at least an insurance claim, to seek compensation for expenses and other damages. Seeking legal guidance can help when pursuing the best possible settlement.

3 times a slip-and-fall could leave someone unable to work

2025-08-11T08:07:30Z

If someone were on a game show answering a question about how people get hurt in accidents, they might talk about job risks or car crashes. A slip-and-fall or same-level fall is unlikely to make the top of the list. People know that falls are dangerous, but they associate full risk with certain types of careers or the use of a ladder. Many people find it surprising to learn that approximately a million people every year go to the emergency room seeking treatment for injuries from slip-and-falls. Some of those people have major medical bills. A small percentage of them may also have lost wages to address. When might a slip-and-fall leave someone unable to work?

When they have a soft tissue injury

One of the most common injuries in a slip-and-fall scenario is soft tissue damage. People tense up when they fall and try to grab anything they can. Their attempts to avoid injury might lead to soft tissue injuries. Depending on the job someone has and the severity of their injuries, they might need several weeks away from their employment until their symptoms subside.

When they break a bone

People don't just stress their muscles and connective tissue when they try to avoid falling. They also put themselves at risk of broken bones. People can break bones in their hands, arms and shoulders trying to stop a slip-and-fall in progress. People can also break bones in their lower extremities because of how they flail when they fall. Broken bones can leave someone unable to work a blue-collar job. More serious fractures might require surgery and could leave someone in the hospital for an extended stay.

When they hit their heads

The only thing riskier than trying to stop a slip-and-fall is failing to react. People who fall straight to the floor can strike their heads and may develop traumatic brain injury. Same-level falls can sometimes lead to fatal bleeding inside the skull. Even if the injuries are not potentially deadly, they can affect someone's career. Brain injury symptoms affect everything from motor function to memory. People may have to retire early or move to a less-demanding and lower-paying job. A premises liability lawsuit brought against a business with unsafe facilities could potentially compensate those unable to work because of their injuries. Those hurt by unsafe facilities can request compensation for lost wages and medical expenses in some cases.

Dog bites, sneaky infections and what you need to do

2025-08-11T08:09:13Z

Dog bites are common, and while most heal without complications, there's a chance of infection. This can particularly be true in Texas, where the warm climate can allow bacteria to flourish. Dog bites are a serious matter, and when an aggressive dog belongs to a neighbor, the situation can become particularly sensitive. Luckily, Texas has specific laws regarding dog bites; if a dog bites you and the wound becomes infected, you might be entitled to compensation. But first, you should tend to the wound and seek further medical attention to curb infection.

Watch out for these signs of infection after a dog bite

In the aftermath of a dog bite, you should expect your wound to show gradual signs of healing. It's normal to have some redness and swelling immediately after a bite. However, worsening redness, swelling and pain, especially several days after the bite, could indicate infection. Additionally, if you notice clear or yellowish pus draining from your dog bite wound, this is a strong sign of infection. This might be accompanied by red streaks radiating from the wound. These streaks may indicate the infection is spreading through your lymphatic system, a network of vessels that helps fight infection. In fact, you may even notice that the lymph nodes near the site of the bite become swollen and tender as they try to filter out the infection. Fever and chills are other obvious signs that your natural defense got overwhelmed and gave way to an infection after a dog bite. Feeling chilly despite an increase in body temperature is your body's conventional response to infection. You may especially feel considerable warmth around the wound.

Immediate actions to take

If you suspect that a dog bite is infected, it's crucial to take immediate action before the infection spreads even further. It can help to thoroughly rinse the infected area with warm water and mild detergent to flash out as much bacteria as possible. Once you pat the wound dry, apply an over-the-counter antiseptic and seal the wound with a bandage to keep it clean and deter bacteria from continuing to multiply. Once the infection is under control, visit a trusted medical facility for further diagnosis and treatment. Dog bites can be traumatic and lead to serious infections if not treated promptly. Recognizing the signs of infection and taking immediate steps to address them is crucial for your health. Additionally, consulting a trusted legal representative concerning your eligibility to secure compensation can provide some financial relief and a sense of justice.

Can homeowner’s insurance pay for dog bite injury expenses?

2024-05-27T11:33:44Z

Premises liability isn't just an issue for businesses. Obviously, retail establishments need to have protection in place in case customers end up injured while visiting a store. However, the average homeowner also needs a degree of protection against liability. Those who are still in the process of paying off their mortgages typically have an obligation to carry homeowner's insurance. Their policies help protect against the possibility of large financial losses, such as repairs due to storm damage. Premises liability coverage is also standard on an average homeowner's insurance policy. If a friend of the family falls down the stairs and breaks a hip, homeowner's insurance can cover their medical costs and other expenses. Does homeowner's insurance also cover dog bite injuries?

Many dog bites are eligible for coverage

Premises liability coverage does not just apply to scenarios in which the property itself causes injuries. People can also file claims in scenarios where they get hurt at the property due to unusual circumstances, including a dog bite incident. Homeowner's insurance coverage may even apply if the dog bite happens at a park or other public place, rather than the home of the animal's owner. It is typically necessary for those with homeowner's insurance coverage to disclose their pet ownership to the insurance provider. Insurance companies sometimes refuse to provide coverage for certain breeds or may slightly increase the cost of a homeowner's coverage based on the type or number of animals present at the property. That being said, so long as a homeowner has been honest about their animal ownership, their homeowner's insurance policy could very well help pay for any injury-related expenses other people have because their pet becomes aggressive. Homeowner's insurance can pay for the cost of medical care after a dog bite incident and can also help replace lost wages. Property damage coverage is also available, as a dog bite incident could lead to damaged designer clothing or broken electronics. Yet, oftentimes, the most effective means of securing a reasonable settlement from homeowner's insurance involves litigation. Those injured by an animal may need to file a lawsuit after a dog bite incident, but the outcome of that lawsuit may be an insurance payout. Reviewing the circumstances that led to injuries caused by an aggressive dog with a skilled legal team may help people determine what options they have for covering their expenses. Both renter's and homeowner's insurance can often cover dog bite expenses as a form of premises liability.

Lifelong changes can occur after a TBI

2024-05-27T11:05:19Z

Traumatic brain injuries (TBIs) are devastating, regardless of their cause. These injuries can lead to lifelong impairments that can make it difficult for a person to care for themselves or hold a job. While all of these long-term changes don’t affect every TBI victim, it’s critical that that those who are newly suffering from TBI symptoms understand what may happen, so that they can prepare accordingly.

Cognitive impairments

Cognitive impairments are common after a TBI. They can cause issues with multitasking, planning, memory, attention and problem-solving. These can make it difficult to function in their personal life and professional life. It’s possible that with certain types of therapy, the person will be able to overcome these challenges or learn how to live a full life.

Behavioral and emotional changes

TBI’s can lead to significant changes to a person’s behavior and emotions. These can manifest as extreme irritability, impulsiveness or aggression. They might also experience mood swings and depression. This is often a direct result of the brain's impaired ability to regulate emotions.

Physical disabilities

Physical disabilities can range from chronic pain and fatigue to paralysis or significant motor function impairments. Some individuals may require assistive devices, such as wheelchairs or walkers, and ongoing physical therapy to maintain mobility and manage pain. These physical disabilities may require accommodations at work or significant structural changes at home.

Sensory processing issues

Individuals with TBIs might experience heightened sensitivity to light and sound or they could have difficulties with their sense of taste or smell. Visual problems such as partial vision loss or depth perception difficulties are common. These sensory changes can complicate daily activities, which can make environments that were once comfortable overwhelming and difficult to navigate.

Communication difficulties

Communication difficulties can manifest as problems with understanding or producing spoken or written language, known as aphasia. Some individuals might also have trouble with the clarity of speech or the ability to engage in conversation. This can lead to feelings of isolation and frustration, impacting social relationships and the ability to function effectively at work or in other social settings. Victims of motor vehicle crashes that lead to TBI symptoms may choose to seek compensation from any negligent party that caused their harm. Obtaining assistance from a legal representative who can explain one’s options and push their case forward can be beneficial for these victims, as they need to focus on healing, not on maximizing their compensation.

Why children’s crash-related injuries can be incredibly expensive

2024-05-27T11:03:07Z

Parents usually do everything in their power to protect their children. They make decisions about what vehicles they purchase and how they drive out with the goal of minimizing the risk to their children. Unfortunately, even the most diligent parent cannot protect their children from issues caused by other people. Young people are at particularly high risk of serious injury or death when motor vehicle collisions occur. The safety systems and restraints installed in vehicles are primarily for adult use and do not work properly for smaller passengers. While young people grow quickly and often heal rapidly, the injuries they incur during a car crash could actually prove far more expensive than similar injuries would be when adults get hurt.

Pediatric care is expensive

Modern medicine is very costly, and even those with insurance may pay thousands of dollars in deductibles or coinsurance. While medical costs have surged in recent years, the increase in costs for pediatric care has outpaced the costs for other types of medical support. Specialized training and more costly malpractice lawsuits can both contribute to the increased medical expenses created by a child's injuries.

There are more complicating factors

Children who get hurt don't just require specialist treatment. They are also at risk of consequences adults may not face. A small facial injury could cause permanent disfigurement because of how scar tissue reacts to physical development over time. A broken bone could damage the growth plate and lead to a variety of challenging medical issues for a child. The possibility of growth and development requiring recurring care can drastically increase the overall cost of a child's injuries after a car wreck.

Children may need adult support

A child may require all-day medical support because of their injuries. Parents may either need to hire specialized childcare providers who can meet those medical needs or make the decision to stay home to care for the child themselves. Both the cost of specialized day-to-day support and the lost wages triggered by a child's injuries could drastically increase the overall financial impact that a car crash has on a family. Recognizing when crash consequences might go beyond what insurance can cover may help people more effectively respond to a serious car crash. Those who discuss their situation with a skilled legal team may develop a better understanding of their options for recovering the costs of a child's car crash injuries.

What are the leading causes of pedestrian accidents?

2025-08-11T08:04:51Z

Pedestrian safety is a critical concern in modern society. With the increase in vehicle traffic and urbanization over the past several years, the risk of pedestrian accidents has become an even more significant issue than it has been traditionally. Understanding the leading causes of pedestrian accidents and where they most commonly occur is paramount to reducing fatalities and injuries.

Factors contributing to pedestrian accidents

One of the primary causes of pedestrian accidents is distracted driving. Drivers who are texting, talking on the phone, adjusting the radio or even eating while driving are less likely to notice pedestrians crossing the road. This lack of attention can lead to tragic consequences for pedestrians. Another common factor in pedestrian accidents is the failure of drivers to yield to pedestrians at crosswalks or intersections. This can occur for various reasons, including aggressive driving, impatience or simply not seeing the pedestrian in time. Speeding can also significantly increase the likelihood and severity of pedestrian accidents. When drivers exceed the speed limit, they have less time to react to unexpected situations, such as pedestrians suddenly stepping onto the road. Additionally, higher speeds increase the force of impact, leading to more severe injuries or fatalities. Poor visibility conditions like low light or adverse weather may also contribute to pedestrian accidents. During nighttime or inclement weather, pedestrians may be less visible to drivers, increasing the risk of collisions. Pedestrian behavior also plays a role in accidents, with jaywalking being a significant contributing factor. Pedestrians who cross the road outside designated crosswalks or against traffic signals may put themselves at greater risk of being struck by vehicles.

Common locations for pedestrian accidents

Urban areas, characterized by dense populations and heavy traffic, are hotspots for pedestrian accidents. Intersections in urban centers are particularly dangerous due to the high volume of vehicles and pedestrians navigating complex traffic patterns. Residential streets may seem safer for pedestrians but still pose risks. This is especially true in areas where speed limits are not strictly enforced. Children playing or people walking pets may unexpectedly dart into the street, potentially increasing the likelihood of accidents. Commercial districts with shopping centers, restaurants and entertainment venues attract large crowds of pedestrians. The mix of foot traffic and vehicular congestion in these areas can also lead to collisions, especially during peak shopping or dining hours. Pedestrian accidents remain a significant concern, with various factors contributing to their occurrence. By understanding the leading causes of pedestrian accidents and identifying the most common locations where they may occur, pedestrians and motorists can observe greater caution to help reduce the risk of these tragedies.