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If a child is hurt at school, who pays for the associated expenses? When a child gets hurt at school or daycare, their parents often have urgent concerns about medical expenses, liability, and whether the daycare’s insurance will cover the costs. In Texas, responsibility for these expenses depends on how the injury happened and whether the daycare was negligent. Such facilities often carry insurance that covers medical bills and other damages. However, there are instances where parents must turn to their own health or liability insurance to cover costs.

To determine who is financially responsible, you must assess how the injury occurred, whether the daycare staff acted negligently, and which insurance policies apply. If the daycare failed to maintain a safe environment, its liability insurance may cover medical expenses, pain and suffering, and other losses. When another child causes the injury, coverage depends on the daycare’s injury policy and whether the staff took reasonable steps to prevent harm.

If a Child Is Hurt at School, Who Pays for Medical Expenses?

Daycares, like schools, have a legal duty to provide a safe environment for children. If a child is hurt at school, determining who pays for medical bills depends on the circumstances of the incident.

• Daycare negligence. If the injury happened due to inadequate supervision, unsafe conditions, or the failure to follow safety protocols, the daycare might be liable. Their insurance might cover medical costs and related damages.
• Injuries caused by another child. When another child causes harm, liability depends on whether the daycare staff acted negligently during the incident. If the injury was foreseeable and staff failed to intervene, the daycare’s insurance could apply.
• Accidental injuries. Some daycare facilities offer medical payment coverage, which pays for minor injuries regardless of fault. If no such policy exists, parents may need to use their health insurance or seek compensation through other means.

Determining responsibility often requires a review of the daycare’s policies, insurance coverage, and Texas negligence laws.

What to Do If Your Child Is Injured at Daycare by Another Child

Parents often struggle to determine whether the daycare is responsible when one child harms another. What to do if your child is injured at daycare by another child depends on the circumstances of the incident.

• Report the injury immediately—notify the daycare in writing and request an incident report detailing what happened; 
• Seek medical attention—even minor injuries should be evaluated by a doctor to rule out complications and document the harm; 
• Review daycare policies—request a copy of the facility’s daycare injury policy to understand how they handle these situations; and
• Speak to an attorney—legal action may be necessary if the daycare fails to provide proper supervision.

Texas law requires daycare facilities to implement reasonable safety measures to prevent harm. If staff failed to intervene in a preventable situation, the daycare’s liability insurance might cover medical expenses and related damages.

Understanding a Daycare Injury Policy and Insurance Coverage

Every licensed Texas daycare should have an injury policy that outlines how they handle accidents and what insurance coverage applies. Understanding the facility’s injury policy helps determine whether they will pay for your child’s medical bills. Some centers provide parents with a written policy upon enrollment, while others only disclose coverage details upon request.

Many daycare centers carry:

• General liability insurance—covers injuries resulting from negligence, such as inadequate supervision or hazardous conditions;
• Medical payment coverage—these policies may cover initial emergency treatment but not long-term care; and
• Umbrella policies—provides additional coverage when general liability limits are exceeded. 

Parents may seek compensation through other means, including a personal injury claim, if the daycare lacks adequate coverage. Speaking with an attorney can help clarify what legal options are available when daycare insurance is insufficient.

When Parents’ Insurance May Cover Daycare Injuries

If the daycare does not have sufficient insurance or denies responsibility, parents may need to rely on their own coverage. Let’s look at some options.

Health Insurance 

Your health insurance could cover medical expenses, though parents may be responsible for deductibles and copays. Even with coverage, out-of-pocket costs can add up, especially for emergency care, surgeries, or ongoing treatment. You should keep records of all medical bills to document your expenses.

Homeowners or Renters Insurance

The owner’s policy may cover damages if the injury occurred at a home-based daycare. However, some policies exclude business-related claims, making it essential to verify coverage. If the daycare provider is licensed, they may have separate liability insurance that applies.

Uninsured/Underinsured Coverage

Some auto and liability policies provide protection if another party is at fault but lacks insurance. This can be useful in cases where a daycare provider is uninsured or if their policy limits are too low to cover all expenses.

In addition to reviewing insurance policies, you may consider seeking reimbursement for lost wages if you must take time off work to care for your injured child. Evaluating all coverage options is important so you don’t miss out on an available source of financial recovery.

Legal Options When Daycare Negligence Causes Injury

Texas law allows parents to pursue claims and lawsuits to get compensation for medical bills, pain and suffering, and other losses when a facility fails to uphold its duty of care. Often, this failure constitutes negligence, which makes the facility liable.

Key factors in proving daycare negligence include:

• Failure to supervise—staff must monitor children and prevent foreseeable harm;
• Unsafe conditions—playgrounds, classrooms, and common areas should be free of hazards; and
• Inadequate staffing—Texas law sets minimum staff-to-child ratios to decrease the risk of injury. 

Legal representation can help determine whether the daycare is liable and how to pursue compensation.

Speak with a Board-Certified Personal Injury Lawyer About Your Daycare Injury Case Today

If your child was injured at their daycare, the facility may be liable for all expenses related to their medical treatment and recovery. At Daws Legal, PLLC, our board-certified personal injury lawyer is dedicated to aggressively pursuing cases against negligent daycare providers. By bringing these cases, we believe we’re helping individual families overcome traumatic events while also encouraging all childcare providers to ensure they are keeping our children safe. We offer free consultations to all prospective clients, and we will not accept payment for our services unless we can connect you with compensation. To schedule a free consultation today, call or connect with us by filling out our secure online contact form. 

A serious dog bite can leave you with medical expenses, lost wages, and emotional distress. If someone else’s dog has bitten you, one of your first concerns is whether the owner has insurance to cover your damages. In Texas, liability for a dog bite often falls on the owner, but determining whether they have coverage requires a few key steps.

Most dog bites are covered under homeowners insurance, renters insurance, or umbrella policies. To find out if the owner has a policy that applies to your situation, you can start by asking them directly, reviewing any information they provide, and working with an attorney if they refuse to cooperate. If the bite happened away from the owner’s home, their homeowners insurance policy might still apply, depending on the terms of their coverage. Many policies extend liability protection beyond the property, but some have restrictions.

Ask the Dog Owner About Their Insurance Coverage

After a dog bite, the simplest way to learn about insurance coverage is to ask the owner directly. Many people carry homeowners or renters insurance, which may include liability coverage for dog bites.

If the dog owner is cooperative, request the name of their insurance company and policy number. A liability claim must be filed with the insurer, so immediately getting this information speeds up the process. If they claim they do not have coverage, you may need to pursue other avenues for compensation, such as filing a lawsuit or seeking coverage under your own policy.

Some owners may not know whether their policy covers dog bites. In that case, encourage them to contact their insurance provider to confirm coverage. An attorney can gather the necessary information if they refuse to provide details.

Finding Homeowners Insurance After a Dog Bite

When a dog owner denies having homeowners insurance, there are still ways to determine whether coverage exists. Insurance records can be traced through property ownership, even if the dog owner is uncooperative.

• Check county property records. Lenders often require homeowners insurance when the owner gets a mortgage to buy the home. If the dog owner owns the property, you can search public records to see if they have a mortgage—which often means they have insurance.
• Ask your insurance company. If you have homeowners or renters insurance, your insurer may assist in investigating the other party’s coverage.
• Attorney assistance. A lawyer can send formal requests for insurance disclosure. If necessary, they may file a lawsuit to force the disclosure of policy information.

Insurance coverage can be challenging to confirm without the owner’s cooperation. However, these steps can uncover the information you need.

Does Renters Insurance Cover Dog Bites?

Renters insurance can provide liability coverage for dog bites, but not all policies include it. If a dog owner lives in a rented home or apartment, their renters insurance may apply. However, some insurers exclude certain breeds. If a dog bit you in a rented home, ask the owner if their renters policy covers liability claims. If they refuse to provide details, your attorney can request this information.

If a renters insurance policy applies, you will need to file a liability claim with the insurer. Document medical expenses, lost income, and pain and suffering to strengthen your case.

Does Homeowners Insurance Cover Dog Bites Off Property?

Homeowners insurance typically covers dog bites that happen on the owner’s property, but what happens if the bite occurs elsewhere? The answer depends on the policy.

Some homeowners insurance policies extend liability coverage to dog bites that happen off-property, such as at a park or on a neighborhood sidewalk. The insurance policy may still apply if the dog was under the owner’s control during the incident.

However, some insurers exclude off-property incidents or require additional coverage for pets. If you were bitten away from the owner’s home, determining whether their insurance applies requires reviewing their policy terms. If the dog owner is unwilling to cooperate, a lawyer can request this information from the insurer.

What to Do If the Dog Owner Has No Insurance

When a dog owner has no insurance, recovering compensation becomes more complicated. You may still have options, but they require additional legal action.

• Check your own insurance policy. Your health insurance, homeowners insurance, or uninsured/underinsured coverage might provide assistance. Some policies cover medical expenses from dog bites, even if the injury occurred away from home.
• File a lawsuit against the dog owner. Texas law allows dog bite victims to sue for medical bills, lost wages, and emotional trauma. A lawsuit may result in financial recovery if the dog owner has assets from which to pay the judgment.
• Explore other sources of compensation. If the bite occurred on business property, the business’s liability insurance might apply. Additionally, some landlords carry umbrella policies that cover dog bites if they fail to enforce restrictions on dangerous animals.

Without insurance coverage, securing compensation requires legal action. Speaking with a lawyer ensures you explore every available option.

Why Legal Help Matters in Dog Bite Cases

Proving liability and securing compensation after a dog bite can be challenging, especially if the dog owner refuses to provide insurance information. A lawyer can handle the investigation, communicate with insurers, and take legal action if necessary.

Working with an attorney provides several key advantages when seeking compensation. They can access insurance records using formal discovery processes, ensuring you receive accurate information about the dog owner’s coverage. They also evaluate your claim, considering damages such as medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering to determine what compensation you deserve. Additionally, attorneys know how to negotiate with insurers, who often try to minimize payouts. Even if the dog owner refuses to take responsibility, legal representation significantly improves your chances of a successful claim.

Have You Been Attacked by a Dog?

If you, your child, or another family member was recently the victim of an animal attack, reach out to Daws Legal, PLLC, to learn more about your rights—including the right to pursue a claim against the animal’s owner. Attorney Judson Daws is committed to fighting on behalf of each of his clients, ensuring that their case receives the attention and consideration it deserves. As a board-certified personal injury attorney, Attorney Daws has the dedication, knowledge, and tenacity needed to handle even the toughest cases against some of the largest insurance companies in the country. To schedule a free consultation today, call or connect with us by filling out our secure online contact form. 

In Texas, workplace injuries remain a significant concern. The Texas Department of Insurance, Division of Workers’ Compensation (TDI-DWC) reported 178,800 nonfatal workplace injuries in 2022, reflecting an incidence rate of 1.9 cases per 100 full-time workers. By 2023, the total slightly decreased to 175,900 cases, with a rate of 1.8 cases per 100 full-time workers.

Knowing what to do if you become a part of these statistics can give you peace of mind. Suffering an injury on the job can leave you with medical bills, lost wages, and uncertainty about your future. Many Texas workers ask the same question after a workplace accident: I had an accident at work; what are my rights? The answer depends on whether your employer carries workers’ compensation, whether negligence played a role, and whether other legal options exist.

If you suffered an injury at work, you may have the right to workers’ compensation benefits, a personal injury lawsuit, or a third-party claim. Let’s explore those options in more detail.

I Had an Accident At Work, What Are My Rights?

Unlike most states, Texas does not require private employers to provide workers’ compensation coverage. Employers who choose not to participate in the state system are non-subscribers, meaning you can sue them directly for workplace injuries.

For companies that do carry workers’ compensation, injured employees may receive benefits that cover medical expenses, lost wages, and disability compensation. Under workers’ compensation, there is no need to prove negligence, so it can be easier to obtain than going through a traditional lawsuit. However, workers’ compensation limits the damages employees can recover. 

Conversely, injured workers may file a lawsuit to seek full damages based on employer negligence if a business does not carry workers’ compensation. If you can prove negligence, you can recover compensation for damages not covered by workers’ comp, like pain and suffering and other noneconomic losses.

Filing an Injury at Work Claim

After an accident, knowing what steps to take can protect your ability to recover compensation. Texas law requires that injured workers report their injury to their employer within 30 days. Seeking immediate medical treatment is critical for health reasons and documenting the injury. If the employer carries workers’ compensation, you must submit a formal claim using DWC Form-041 within one year of the accident.

Workers employed by a non-subscriber may need to file a lawsuit to recover damages. This process requires proving that the employer’s negligence caused or contributed to the injury. If a third party played a role in the accident, your lawyer can seek to hold them accountable as well. Examples of such third parties include a negligent contractor, defective equipment manufacturer, or property owner, 

What Are Some Worker Rights Related to Injury?

What rights do workers have when it comes to getting injured on the job?

No Retaliation

If you request compensation for a workplace injury, you might be afraid that your employer will retaliate somehow. However, Texas law protects employees from retaliation for filing an injury claim or seeking legal action after a workplace accident. Under Texas Labor Code § 451.001, employers cannot fire, demote, or harass an employee for filing a workers’ compensation claim. If an employer retaliates, the employee may pursue legal action for wrongful termination or discrimination.

Additionally, Texas law requires employers to provide medical treatment for injured workers covered by workers’ compensation. Employees have the right to choose from an approved list of doctors and cannot be forced to return to work before they have fully recovered.

Increased Compensation for Non-Subscriber Employers 

Many major Texas employers, including Amazon, Walmart, and H-E-B, have chosen not to participate in the state’s workers’ compensation system. In such cases, injured workers must prove their employer’s negligence to recover damages.

Unlike workers’ compensation claims, which provide limited benefits, non-subscriber lawsuits allow injured employees to recover full compensation, including medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and long-term disability. However, these lawsuits require strong evidence of unsafe working conditions, lack of training, or employer negligence. Large corporations aggressively fight such claims, making legal representation essential.

Third-Party Liability for Workplace Accidents

As mentioned earlier, a third party other than the employer may be responsible for a workplace injury. If faulty equipment, a negligent contractor, a reckless driver, or another third party contributed to the accident, the injured worker may file a third-party personal injury lawsuit.

Third-party claims allow injured workers to recover compensation beyond what is available through workers’ compensation, including full wage reimbursement and pain and suffering damages. Employers are often quick to deny responsibility, making it important to identify all possible sources of compensation.

What If My Work Injury Causes a Permanent Disability?

Some workplace accidents result in long-term disabilities that prevent employees from returning to work. Texas law allows certain injured workers to apply for permanent disability benefits if they can no longer perform their duties. Workers who qualify may receive:

• Long-term financial compensation for loss of earning capacity,
• Vocational rehabilitation services to transition into a new career, and
• Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) for those unable to work in any capacity.

Severe injuries require long-term planning. Legal guidance can help injured workers maximize their available benefits and compensation.

Have You Been Injured in a Workplace Accident?

If you were injured at work and are interested in learning more about your options, reach out to Daws Legal, PLLC, for immediate assistance. Judson Daws is a board-certified personal injury attorney, which is a distinction that just 1% of all Texas lawyers have obtained. This certification indicates that he is especially qualified and has demonstrated expertise in personal injury law. 

Aside from his impeccable credentials, Attorney Daws is a compassionate advocate who understands what his clients have been through and will fight tirelessly to ensure they recover the compensation they need. If you are considering an injury at work claim, our firm can help you understand your rights. To schedule a free consultation today, call or connect with us by filling out our secure online contact form. 

Accidents can happen anywhere—at a grocery store, a friend’s house, or work. But when an accident occurs because of unsafe conditions on someone else’s property, you may have the right to pursue a premises liability claim. In Texas, property owners are legally responsible for maintaining safe environments for visitors. When they fail to do so, serious injuries can occur, leading to costly medical bills, lost wages, and long-term pain and suffering.

However, knowing your rights and navigating a premises liability claim can be challenging. That’s where Daws Legal, PLLC, steps in. We understand the emotional and financial toll accidents take on victims and their families. Our team is dedicated to fighting for justice and ensuring you receive the compensation you deserve. Unlike big billboard firms, we take a personalized approach—every case receives the careful review of experienced attorney Judson Daws, not a case manager.

With a proven track record of holding negligent property owners accountable, Daws Legal is here to guide you every step of the way. If you or a loved one has been injured due to unsafe property conditions, don’t navigate this complex process alone. Contact us for a free consultation today.

Understanding the most common types of premises liability claims can help you recognize your rights and determine whether you’re entitled to compensation. Read on to learn what you need to know about premises liability law, the most frequent accidents that lead to claims, and premises liability settlements.

What Is Premises Liability Law?

Premises liability law holds property owners and occupiers legally responsible for accidents and injuries that occur on their property due to unsafe conditions. In Texas, premises liability claims require proving the following elements:

• Duty of care. The property owner or occupier has a legal duty to keep the premises safe for visitors. That duty differs depending on the visitor’s status as an invitee, licensee, or trespasser.
• Breach of duty. The property owner failed to address or warn about a dangerous condition they knew or should have known about.
• Causation. The hazardous condition directly caused the accident and resulting injuries.
• Damages. The victim suffered measurable damages, such as medical expenses, lost wages, pain, and suffering.

Knowing your legal status on the property is essential when pursuing a premises liability claim. At Daws Legal, we help you understand your rights and fight for the compensation you deserve.

What Are the Most Common Types of Premises Liability Claims?

Here are the most common types of premises liability claims in Texas.

Slip and Fall Accidents

Slip and fall accidents occur when someone slips, trips, or falls due to hazardous conditions such as:

• Wet or slippery floors,
• Uneven surfaces,
• Poor lighting, or
• Obstructed walkways.

Slip and fall accidents can result in severe injuries, including broken bones, head trauma, spinal cord damage, and traumatic brain injuries.

Swimming Pool Accidents

Swimming pool accidents can be catastrophic, especially for young children. Property owners, including homeowners, hotels, and community pool operators, must maintain safe pool environments. Common causes of swimming pool accidents include a lack of fencing or gates, poor maintenance, or warning signs.

Swimming pool accidents can result in serious injuries, including drowning, near-drowning brain injuries, broken bones, spinal cord injuries, and infections from contaminated water.  

Elevator and Escalator Accidents

Elevator and escalator accidents are more common than most people think, often resulting in serious injuries or fatalities. Common causes of these accidents include:

• Mechanical malfunctions,
• Improper inspections,
• Inadequate maintenance,
• Unqualified maintenance staff, and
• Inadequate warning signs.

Property owners, building managers, and maintenance companies are responsible for ensuring that elevators and escalators are safe and functioning correctly. 

Animal Bites

In Texas, owners are responsible for controlling their pets and preventing them from harming others. Texas follows the “one bite rule,” meaning a pet owner is liable for injuries if they knew the animal had bitten someone before or had dangerous propensities.

Alternatively, someone injured in a dog bite or animal attack may be able to file a personal injury claim, alleging that the owner was negligent in securing their animal and failed to take precautions to protect others from the animal.

Structural Defects

Structural defects, especially in older buildings or improperly maintained properties, pose significant dangers. Common structural hazards include:

• Unstable balconies or decks,
• Broken or unstable staircases,
• Loose handrails,
• Missing steps, and
• Collapsing ceilings or walls.

Daws Legal investigates structural defect claims by working with construction experts to prove negligence and hold property owners or contractors accountable.

Fires

Fires are one of the most devastating types of premises liability claims, leading to severe burns, smoke inhalation injuries, and fatalities. Common causes include:

• Faulty wiring,
• Electrical malfunctions, 
• Exposed wires, 
• Overloaded circuits, 
• Improper storage of flammable materials, and
• Lack of fire safety equipment.

Daws Legal aggressively pursues justice for fire victims, holding negligent property owners accountable for unsafe conditions.

Inadequate Security

Inadequate security claims arise when property owners fail to protect visitors from foreseeable criminal activity, such as assaults, robberies, or attacks. Property owners must take reasonable security measures, such as adequate lighting, proper training of security personnel, and surveillance cameras.

What to Expect from Premises Liability Settlements?

Premises liability settlements compensate victims for damages resulting from unsafe property conditions. In Texas, these settlements typically include payment for:

• Medical expenses,
• Lost wages,
• Pain and suffering,
• Emotional distress,
• Loss of enjoyment of life, and
• Property damage.

The amount of a premises liability settlement depends on the severity of the injuries, the impact on the victim’s life, and the degree of negligence involved. At Daws Legal, we fight aggressively to secure maximum compensation for our clients, negotiating with insurance companies and taking cases to trial when necessary.

Contact Daws Legal for a Free Case Evaluation

Premises liability claims can be complex. At Daws Legal, we provide personalized, compassionate representation tailored to maximize your recovery.  We work on a contingency fee basis, so you don’t pay unless we recover compensation for you. 

If you or a loved one has been injured due to unsafe property conditions, contact Daws Legal today for a free consultation. Let us fight for the justice and compensation you deserve.

At Daws Legal, PLLC, we understand the financial and emotional strain that follows an 18-wheeler crash. Unlike minor car accidents, collisions with commercial trucks often cause extensive property damage and serious injuries. How much will you get paid if an 18-wheeler hit you in Texas? The answer depends on many factors.

Each case is unique, and settlement amounts vary widely based on injuries, lost income, liability, and insurance coverage. While an “average” figure is difficult to pinpoint—especially since many settlements remain confidential—understanding why truck accident payouts are typically larger than those for passenger vehicle crashes can help set realistic expectations.

Why Do 18-Wheeler Settlements Tend to Be Higher than Other Car Accident Settlements?

Settlements for commercial truck accidents tend to be substantially higher than those for standard vehicle collisions. Several factors contribute to this:

• Increased property damage. The weight and size of an 18-wheeler can more easily total smaller vehicles, leading to higher repair or replacement costs.
• Severe injuries. Truck crashes more frequently cause life-altering conditions that require expensive, long-term medical care.
• Multiple liable parties. Liability may involve truck drivers, trucking companies, cargo loaders, or truck and truck parts manufacturers. A higher number of liable parties can increase your compensation.
• Strict federal regulations. Violations of safety rules, hours-of-service limits, or maintenance requirements can strengthen a victim’s claim.

Because commercial trucking companies carry higher insurance limits, the potential compensation is often greater than in a typical car accident case.

What Determines the Minimum Truck Settlement in Texas?

There is no universal minimum truck settlement, as compensation depends on several key elements. Understanding these factors can help set expectations and ensure victims do not settle for less than they deserve.

Severity of Injuries and Medical Costs

Even in non-life-threatening cases, medical bills can add up quickly. Emergency treatment, ongoing therapy, and specialized care all influence the final settlement amount. More serious injuries, such as traumatic brain injuries or spinal cord damage, typically lead to larger payouts due to the lasting effects on a victim’s health.

Lost Wages and Earning Capacity

An accident with an 18-wheeler can prevent someone from working for weeks or even permanently. Compensation may include lost income during recovery and, in severe cases, damages for reduced earning potential if the victim can no longer return to the same profession. The longer the recovery period, the higher the potential compensation.

Pain and Suffering

Beyond financial losses, truck accidents often result in physical pain and emotional trauma. Settlement amounts increase when a victim experiences chronic pain, mental distress, or an inability to enjoy daily life as they once did. While pain and suffering do not have a fixed dollar value, they play a significant role in overall compensation.

Liability and Fault

Texas follows modified comparative negligence laws, meaning compensation may be reduced if the victim shares fault for the crash. If an investigation proves the trucking company or driver violated federal safety laws, the settlement is often higher. Strong evidence, including accident reports, witness statements, and expert testimony, can establish liability and prevent insurers from shifting blame.

Commercial Insurance Policy Limits

Unlike personal vehicles, 18-wheelers are required to carry much higher insurance coverage. Texas mandates that trucking companies have at least $750,000 in liability coverage, though many policies provide $1 million or more. Since these accidents tend to cause significant damages, the available compensation is often much greater than in cases involving passenger cars. However, insurance companies will work aggressively to minimize payouts, making legal representation critical.

Potential for Punitive Damages

If a trucking company or driver acted recklessly or with gross negligence, Texas law allows courts to award punitive damages. These penalties apply in cases involving drunk driving, deliberate safety violations, or reckless disregard for traffic laws. Though not awarded in every case, punitive damages can significantly increase settlement amounts.

Because no two truck accidents are the same, there is no fixed minimum truck settlement in Texas. Compensation depends on medical costs, lost income, pain and suffering, fault, and insurance policies. While minor claims settle for lower amounts, serious truck accident cases can result in high-value payouts. If you were in an 18-wheeler accident, an experienced lawyer can protect your rights and ensure you receive fair compensation.

How Much Will You Get Paid If an 18-Wheeler Hit You in Texas?

While no two settlements are identical, truck accident claims tend to be much larger than standard vehicle crashes. Many settlement details remain confidential, but past cases show that:

• Minor truck accident claims settle between $50,000 and $150,000, covering vehicle damage and temporary injuries;
• Moderate cases involving broken bones or extended medical care can lead to settlements of $200,000 to $500,000; and
• Severe cases, such as those involving permanent disabilities, spinal cord injuries, or wrongful death, frequently exceed $1 million.

The final amount depends on case-specific details, and working with an attorney ensures you receive the full value of your claim.

How Long Does an 18-Wheeler Lawsuit Take?

One of the most common questions accident victims ask is: How long does an 18-wheeler lawsuit take? The answer depends on case complexity, liability disputes, and willingness to settle.

• Simple cases—if liability is clear and injuries are minor, settlements may take a few months;
• Moderate cases—more serious injuries or contested claims can extend the timeline to six months to a year; and
• Severe cases—lawsuits involving life-altering injuries, wrongful death, or extensive litigation may take one to three years, especially if they go to trial.

Trucking companies and insurers often try to delay settlements to pressure victims into accepting lowball offers. Having a lawyer handle negotiations can speed up the process and prevent unfair denials.

Texas 18-Wheeler Accident Attorneys

At Daws Legal, we know that truck accident claims are more complex than regular car crashes. Our team has extensive experience fighting trucking companies and their insurers so we can get our clients the maximum compensation possible. If you or a loved one was hurt in an 18-wheeler accident, do not settle for less than you deserve. Contact us today for a free consultation, and let us fight for justice and fair compensation—without gimmicks, just results.

If you’ve been in an accident on someone else’s property, you may have many questions about who is responsible. Maybe you were injured and need to understand who is legally at fault. Or perhaps you’re a property owner wondering, Who is responsible if someone gets hurt on my property? Premises liability laws in Texas can be complicated and differ depending on whether the property is public or private.

At Daws Legal, we understand how confusing and stressful this can be. Our experienced team is here to help you understand your rights and responsibilities. Contact us today to discuss your premises liability injury and get the answers you need.

Understanding Premises Liability Laws in Texas

Premises liability laws determine who is responsible when someone is injured on a property. The rules change depending on whether the accident happened on public or private property. Property owners have a duty to keep their spaces safe, but the level of responsibility depends on several factors.

Personal Liability vs. Premises Liability

Before discussing the differences between public and private property rules, it’s important to understand the difference between personal liability and premises liability.

Personal liability applies when someone’s direct actions cause harm. For example, if a homeowner spills water and fails to clean it up, leading to a guest’s injury, the homeowner may be personally liable. Premises liability applies when an unsafe condition on a property leads to injury. For instance, if a store owner fails to fix a broken step and a customer falls, the business could be responsible under premises liability laws. These rules of liability apply differently to public and private properties.

Premises Liability on Private Property

Private property includes homes, businesses, and land owned by individuals or companies. Property owners must ensure their property is safe for guests, but their level of responsibility depends on the visitor’s status.

Texas law separates visitor status into the following three categories:

• Invitees. These individuals enter a property for business purposes, such as customers in a store. Property owners owe the highest duty of care to invitees, and they must regularly inspect their property and fix or warn about hazards.
• Licensees. These are social guests or people with permission to be on the property, such as neighbors stopping by. Property owners must warn licensees about known dangers but are not required to inspect for unknown hazards.
• Trespassers. These are people who enter a property without permission. Property owners generally do not owe a duty of care to trespassers, except in cases involving children.

If an accident happens on private property, liability depends on the visitor’s status and whether the owner took reasonable steps to prevent injury.

Premises Liability on Public Property

Public property includes parks, sidewalks, government buildings, and other spaces open to the public. The following rules apply to government-owned properties:

• Broad immunity from lawsuits. Government entities have immunity in many cases. If you suffer an injury on public property, you may not be able to sue unless the government acted negligently.
• Limitations on types of claims. Texas law allows claims in specific situations. For example, if a government employee creates a hazard, such as a city worker leaving a dangerous hole in a sidewalk, you may be able to file a claim.
• Strict filing rules. You must provide notice of your claim within six months of the injury. You may lose your right to seek compensation if you miss this deadline.

If you’re unsure whether you have a case, Daws Legal can help you determine your rights and guide you through the process. We will carefully assess your situation, explain your options clearly, and advocate for the compensation you deserve.

Injured on Private Property: What If the Property Owner Has Insurance?

Many property owners carry liability insurance to protect themselves in case someone gets hurt on their property. If you sustained an injury, the owner’s insurance might cover your medical bills, lost wages, and other damages. However, insurance companies often try to minimize payouts. They may argue that you were partially at fault for the accident or that your injuries are not as severe as you claim.

If you are dealing with an insurance company, keep these points in mind:

• Do not accept a quick settlement. Insurance companies may offer a low settlement to close the case fast. You could be entitled to more.
• Be cautious when giving statements. Insurance adjusters may ask questions that lead you to make statements that could be used against you later.
• Document everything. Keep records of your medical treatments, accident reports, and any communication with the insurance company.
• Consider speaking with a lawyer. A premises liability lawyer can help you negotiate with the insurance company and fight for fair compensation.

Insurance companies often prioritize their bottom line over your well-being. Taking the right steps as soon as possible after an injury can help you secure the compensation you deserve.

Steps to Take After a Premises Liability Injury

If you’ve been injured on public or private property, you can protect your rights by:

• Seeking medical attention from a doctor as soon as possible;
• Reporting the incident to the property owner, store manager, or government agency;
• Documenting the scene by taking photos of the hazard that caused your injury and gathering witness statements;
• Keeping records of all medical bills, doctor’s notes, and communication related to your injury; and
• Contacting a premises liability lawyer to help you understand your options

These steps will help protect your rights and improve your chances of receiving the compensation you need to recover.

Take Action Today—Contact Daws Legal

Understanding premises liability laws can be overwhelming, but you don’t have to figure it out alone. Whether you suffered an injury on public or private property, Daws Legal is here to help. Our team provides superior guidance and compassionate support. Don’t wait to get the help you need. Call or contact us online today for a consultation. We are committed to service and results, ensuring you get the justice you deserve.