Consult with an experienced personal injury law firm to help you or your loved one after suffering injuries or property damage from a devastating accident. Call 361-201-0819 now for urgent assistance.
Based in Corpus Christi, The Patel Firm believes that anyone injured deserves quality legal representation in seeking compensation and justice. Feel free to read the verified testimonials of our satisfied clients across Texas or browse through our five-star reviews on Google.
The Patel Firm is comprised of real people who are genuine, passionate and knowledgeable about what we do. We are approachable and are truly dedicated to our clients. Our personalized approach to providing legal solutions yields successful results and a high return rate from our clientele.
The firm’s president and principal attorney, Minesh J. Patel, has represented countless injury victims in various cases, including motor vehicle-related collisions, commercial trucking accidents, workplace accidents, oilfield accidents, insurance disputes, and premise liability accidents.
Over the course of his career, Minesh and his legal team have secured millions of dollars in settlements and jury verdicts. He is a member of the Million Dollar Advocates Forum, Rue Ratings’ Best Attorneys in America, and has been recognized as 40 best under 40 by The National Trial Lawyers Association.
Our tireless work ethic quickly becomes evident after you become our client. We are committed to your case, and we do not cut corners.
We understand the financial strain that a tragic accident can bring, which is why we operate on a contingency fee basis. Our clients pay no upfront fees, and we only receive payment if we successfully secure compensation on their behalf. Contact us at 361-201-0819 for a free case evaluation, or send us a message through our secure and confidential online form.
At The Patel Firm, our experienced legal team is dedicated to providing comprehensive support to our clients who have suffered personal injuries. We understand the physical, emotional, and financial toll that can arise from such incidents, and we are committed to bringing justice to our clients’ causes.
Our team of skilled personal injury attorneys has a deep understanding of the complexities of negligence laws. We leverage our decades’ worth of experience to guide our clients through the entire process, ensuring that their rights are protected and their concerns are properly addressed.
We conduct thorough case assessments to understand the unique circumstances of each case. By developing a customized legal strategy for each client, we strive to achieve the most favorable outcomes, whether through negotiation or litigation.
We prioritize clear and open communication with our clients, keeping them informed at every stage of their case. Our team provides compassionate support, offering empathy and reassurance throughout the legal proceedings.
We have successfully resolved countless matters and recovered millions of dollars for our clients. Our goal is to secure maximum compensation to cover your medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other damages.
Our fee structure is simple: if you don’t get paid, we don’t get paid. We never charge a fee unless we win or settle your matter. We also never charge during our initial consultation. It’s always free to see if you have a case.
A jolt, blow, or penetrating injury to the head, and accidents and incidents that deprive the brain of oxygen, can result in significant brain injuries that impair a person’s ability to speak, move, think, and feel. Brain injuries involve a complex and uncertain area of medicine. Recovering from a brain injury is not a straightforward or predictable process. Victims need strong support. Our team helps them obtain the compensation they need to afford the help they need.
Learn MoreAny kind of injury can devastate an innocent person’s life; burns, however, are especially horrific. Whether caused by fire, chemicals, or electricity, a burn inflicts intense, long-lasting pain. Treating a severe burn frequently requires multiple agonizing surgeries and months of recovery time. Victims commonly suffer permanent physical limitations and disfigurement. The team at The Patel Firm understands the excruciating process, and massive costs, associated with recovering from severe burns, and works tirelessly to obtain compensation for burn victim clients.
Learn MoreSpinal cord injuries devastate lives. Victims of these injuries, which are frequently the result of motor vehicle accidents and falls, often face life transformed. Spinal cord injuries can leave a person partially or totally paralyzed, confined to a wheelchair and in need of around-the-clock assistance with basic day-to-day activities, at least in the near-term. The medical care and life assistance spinal cord injury victims need can cost millions of dollars over a lifetime. The Patel Firm works hard to make sure those victims receive that money from the parties at fault.
Learn MoreMotor vehicle and industrial accidents often cause catastrophic injuries when a victim’s limb gets pinned or crushed under or between heavy objects. Oftentimes, doctors have no choice but to amputate the limb to save the victim’s life. Living with an amputated or non-functioning limb entails significant adjustments to one’s environment and daily activities, and requires long-term medical care, all of which cost time and money. The Patel Term aims to make sure victims of these injuries have the financial resources they need to adjust to the new normal.
Learn MoreCorpus Christi, the sparkling jewel of the Texas Gulf Coast, is a city that beckons visitors with its pristine beaches, rich history, and vibrant culture. From the stunning USS Lexington Museum on the Bay to the lively Downtown area, there’s no shortage of attractions to explore. However, amidst the beauty and excitement, there lurks a hidden danger – the heightened risk of personal injuries.
The city’s rapid growth and expanding population have put a strain on its infrastructure, leading to an increase in accidents and injuries. The busy streets, particularly around popular destinations like the Texas State Aquarium and the Corpus Christi Museum of Science and History, are hotspots for motor vehicle collisions.
Additionally, the city’s love affair with water activities means that beach and boating accidents are all too common, often resulting in serious injuries. Other high-risk areas include the Port of Corpus Christi, one of the largest ports in the country, where industrial accidents and workplace injuries are a significant concern.
The city’s numerous construction sites, fueled by the ongoing development boom, also contribute to the elevated risk of personal injuries. Slip and fall accidents are prevalent in popular shopping districts and tourist attractions.
In our long years of practice in handling personal injury cases, we have seen that they commonly occur in the following high-risk areas:
Roadways: Corpus Christi’s heavily congested highways and streets are notorious for car collisions, truck accidents, and motorcycle crashes. In particular, the police reported that the intersection of Saratoga Boulevard and South Staples Street is among the most dangerous in the city.
Officials have cited distracted driving as a prevalent cause of accidents in the area, among other factors. These negligent acts can result in severe injuries, including whiplash, broken bones, and traumatic brain injuries.
Workplaces: Industrial and construction sites, such as oil refineries, chemical plants, and manufacturing facilities, can be dangerous places to work. Slip and fall accidents, exposure to harmful substances, and equipment-related injuries are just a few examples of the types of personal injuries that can occur in these settings.
Public spaces: Slip and fall accidents can happen in any public space, including grocery stores, shopping malls, restaurants, and sidewalks. Property owners have a responsibility to maintain safe conditions for visitors, and failure to do so can result in serious injuries.
Residential properties: Accidents can also occur in private homes and apartments, often due to negligent maintenance or unsafe conditions. Examples include slip and fall accidents caused by wet floors, dog bites, and swimming pool injuries.
Medical facilities: Personal injuries can even occur in places meant to heal, such as hospitals, clinics, and nursing homes. Medical malpractice, such as surgical errors, misdiagnosis, and medication mistakes, can lead to severe injuries and long-lasting consequences for patients.
Recreational areas: Parks, playgrounds, and sports facilities are popular spots for outdoor activities, but they can also be the scene of personal injuries. Faulty equipment, inadequate supervision, and poorly maintained grounds can contribute to accidents and injuries in these locations.
When it comes to personal injury cases in Corpus Christi, two crucial elements form the foundation of every claim: liability and damages. Liability refers to the legal responsibility of the person or party who caused the injury, holding them accountable for the resulting consequences.
Damages, on the other hand, serve as the basis for the monetary compensation that the injured party seeks to remedy the harm they have suffered.
While no financial amount can truly undo the pain and suffering caused by an accident, it is the closest possible means of addressing the injury-related expenses and losses incurred by the victim. Here are the types of compensation that you can recover:
When a personal injury is caused by someone acting with deliberate disregard for the victim’s safety, the court may award punitive damages. Also known as exemplary damages, these are typically reserved for high-dollar cases involving severe injuries such as traumatic brain damage or paralysis.
Punitive damages are not part of personal injury settlements; instead, courts use them to deter the at-fault party and others from engaging in similar behavior in the future.
Compensatory damages, which aim to reimburse the injured party for their losses, come in two forms: special (economic) and general (non-economic).
Special damages have a pre-determined value and include:
General damages, while more challenging to quantify, are the natural consequences of the at-fault party’s negligence. These may include:
By understanding the types of damages available and the evidence required to prove them, personal injury victims can work with experienced personal injury attorneys to secure the compensation they deserve.
From dealing with physical injuries and emotional trauma to navigating the complex world of insurance claims and legal proceedings, it’s easy to feel like you’re in over your head. That’s where a specialized personal injury attorney comes in.
At The Patel Firm, we provide comprehensive legal services, which start at:
Investigating the accident: Your attorney will thoroughly examine the circumstances surrounding your accident. They’ll gather evidence, interview witnesses, and consult with experts to build a strong case on your behalf. This process may involve obtaining police reports, medical records, and other relevant documentation to support your claim.
Assessing your damages: An accident can result in a wide range of damages, from medical expenses and lost wages to pain and suffering and emotional distress. Your attorney will work with you to assess the full extent of your damages and determine the appropriate amount of compensation to seek.
Negotiating with insurance companies: Insurance companies are in the business of making money, and they may try to minimize the amount they pay out on claims. Your personal injury attorney will handle all communication with the insurance companies involved and negotiate on your behalf to ensure that you receive a fair settlement.
Representing you in court: If a fair settlement cannot be reached through negotiation, your attorney will be prepared to take your case to court. They’ll argue your case in front of a judge and jury, presenting evidence and advocating for your rights every step of the way.
Providing support and guidance: Beyond the legal aspects of your case, your attorney will also provide much-needed support and guidance throughout the process. They’ll answer your questions, keep you informed about the status of your case, and offer advice on how to move forward after the accident.
If you have sustained an injury in Texas, it’s crucial to understand the state’s specific laws to ensure you receive proper compensation.
Generally, Texas adheres to a Statute of Limitations, which mandates the filing of a case within two (2) years of the initial injury. If you fail to bring a claim within this timeframe, it can result in the forfeiture of your right to pursue it.
Notably, the two-year limit is not the sole consideration. Different rules apply if a state or local government is implicated in the injury.
Failing to exercise the degree of care expected of someone in order to minimize the risk of harm to another is considered “negligence,” the legal basis for many accident cases.
Texas employs the modified comparative negligence rule to determine liabilities, which allocates damages based on each party’s degree of fault. This means that if you are found partially at fault for the injury, then your damages can be reduced.
However, if you’re the plaintiff in a lawsuit (the person wronged or injured), you may not recover damages if your percentage of fault is found to be greater than 50%.
Contact an award-winning Corpus Christi personal injury law firm to expertly handle your case. The Patel Firm focuses on providing legal guidance and utmost care during unthinkable tragedies, empowering clients with efficient legal solutions.
We understand that negotiating with insurance companies, understanding legal complexities, and investing significant time and resources all contribute to the overwhelming nature of managing a personal injury lawsuit – but we’re here to help.
With our vast resources and a determined team of skilled attorneys, we’ll be able to strongly advocate for your rights. We believe in safeguarding the community from harm and dedicate our practice to helping injured survivors seek justice.
Contact us at 361-201-0819 for a free case evaluation, or send us a message through our secure and confidential online form. We are always ready to take your call.
Not every injured victim will necessarily be entitled to financial compensation from another. To recover damages in a personal injury claim, the other party must be legally liable for your injuries. Oftentimes, parties will be responsible for the injuries they cause when they are behaving negligently. To show negligence, you must prove an individual had a duty to act reasonably, they failed to act reasonably, and as a result, you suffered damages.
Formally, the elements of negligence are:
You must successfully prove each of these four elements to receive financial compensation. The failure to prove any one of these four would keep you from financial recovery. In any personal injury cases, your attorney will likely spend the most time establishing the breach of duty. This means that the defendant acted in a way that a reasonable person in their circumstances would not. For example, if they were driving a car, they breached the duty of care when they were speeding or made an illegal turn.
Statistically, some groups of people have a higher risk of death resulting from accident-injuries than others.
For example:
Accidents cause many serious and disabling injuries every day. Many factors may affect the nature and extent of a victim’s injuries. However, common injuries include:
Texas has adopted an “at-fault” system regarding car insurance. An at-fault driver can be held liable for any damages and injuries he or she causes in a car accident. Most drivers purchase liability insurance with the required minimum limits, which will cover their injuries, even when they weren’t at fault. However, the injured person can sue the at-fault driver for expenses beyond the minimums provided by their liability insurance coverage.
If you obtain a judgment, it is not always easy to collect, but it is a source of extra money for you. In addition, your own insurance policy could have coverage in case you are in an accident with an underinsured driver.
When appropriate, attorneys may utilize accident reconstruction specialists, highly qualified experts, doctors, and other professionals to analyze the accident. Plaintiffs must accurately determine what happened, who was at fault, and the extent of the resulting injuries. The claims process begins when an injured party and their attorney file a summons and complaint in civil court. Both documents must be properly served on the defendant to give him or her notice of the lawsuit. Before proceeding to trial, parties typically engage in the discovery phase. During discovery, each party has an opportunity to discover evidence related to the other party’s legal claims and defenses.
During this process, the attorneys may request answers to interrogatories (formal questions), documents pertaining to the case, or depositions of the parties and witnesses. When necessary, attorneys may bring preliminary issues before the court to decide in advance of trial. The processes of discovery and preliminary motions can require a significant amount of time. Parties may consistently engage in negotiation discussions intended to resolve the claim before proceeding to trial.
However, should negotiations prove to be unfair, injured victims may decide to continue to trial. Just as nobody can predict the length of a settlement negotiation, the length of a trial is also difficult to forecast. During the trial, both sides present evidence. The judge or jury will determine if the defendant is liable and, if so, how much the defendant must pay in damages to the injured party.
Unfortunately, personal injury victims frequently suffer catastrophic injuries and financial losses. Depending on the severity of their injuries, they may have to adapt to lifelong limitations.
Determining the amount of compensation a victim may receive depends on:
In Texas, damages generally fall into two categories: economic damages and non-economic damages. Economic damages are easy to quantify, or put a price on, such as medical bills, costs of rehabilitation and future care, or lost wages. Non-economic damages are typically intangible and more difficult to quantify.
For example, you may include pain and suffering, loss of companionship or consortium, disability, or disfigurement as non-economic damages. In some especially egregious cases, the court may award exemplary damages to punish unethical or malicious behavior.
When another is responsible for a victim’s injuries, they may seek damages for:
Personal injury claims are commonly associated with car accidents. While car accidents are a major cause of injuries across the United States, are many other accidents cause injuries.
Injuries frequently result from unsafe premises, defective or dangerous products, slips and falls, and medical malpractice, among others.
Vehicle accident injuries. Car accidents are a common cause of injuries everywhere. According to statewide statistics, a crash occurs every 58 seconds in Texas. If you suffered injuries from a car accident that wasn’t your fault, you may pursue compensation for any resulting losses.
Slip and fall injuries. Slip and fall accidents can happen anywhere, and they often cause serious injuries. According to the National Floor Safety Institute, falls account for more than eight million hospital emergency room visits each year.
Medical malpractice injuries. Medical professionals must provide patients with the medical industry’s universally accepted standard of care. Sometimes medical care professionals injure patients by failing to provide proper health care treatment. For example, surgical mistakes, misdiagnosis or delayed diagnosis, or incorrect medications can cause patients serious injuries. Medical care providers may commit malpractice if they acted negligently in providing medical care, in violation of the professional standard of care.
Product liability injuries. Americans use many products to make their lives safer or easier, including child safety seats, power tools, or medical devices. Unfortunately, due to improper production or manufacturing, unsafe products may cause consumer injuries. Product liability claims pertain to personal injuries sustained when using a dangerous or defective product.
Dog bite or attack injuries. Generally, if a dog attacks someone, the owner is legally responsible for the resulting damages.
Under Texas law, the one-bite rule requires injured parties to show the following to recover damages for a dog bite:
Workplace injuries. Workplace injuries are quite common. The law associated with workplace injuries is often complicated. If you suffer a workplace injury due to another’s negligence, and you do not have access to Workers’ Compensation benefits, you may file suit.
Assault, abuse, or neglect. Personal injury lawsuits are usually the result of negligence, but that is not always the case. Injured parties may also be entitled to compensation if someone’s intentional behavior harmed them. In addition to any criminal court proceedings, injured parties may sue the wrongdoer in civil court for financial compensation.
Wrongful death. If another’s negligence or intentional act killed a loved one, surviving family members may file a “wrongful death” claim against the responsible party. Wrongful death claims compensate families for losses suffered due to their loved one’s death.
If you have suffered a personal injury, the first thing you should do is seek medical care. Even if you do not think you have been injured or believe your injuries are minor, you should see a doctor as soon as possible. Many injuries may exhibit delayed symptoms that are not immediately apparent. For some injuries, such as brain injuries, victims may not experience symptoms for days or weeks after the injury. Delaying treatment doesn’t mean you cannot recover damages.
However, it may allow the opposing side to argue that the accident did not cause your injuries. After an accident, insurance representatives may try to arrange a quick settlement or urge you to sign away your rights. At first, you may be attracted to a settlement, thinking the compensation will allow you to move on with your life. The insurance company uses quick settlement offers to avoid paying the full value of your claim.
Don’t let anyone intimidate, threaten, or pressure you into signing a settlement agreement without discussing the offer with an experienced attorney. Begin gathering and preserving evidence as soon as possible. Evidence may become more difficult to collect as time passes.
Injured victims should try to:
We tend to hear about personal injury cases that go to trial, but you may settle a case outside the courtroom. In reality, only about 2 percent of personal injury cases go to trial. Most cases settle out of court or even before the injured person files a lawsuit. A victim’s attorney may negotiate with the opposing party to try to agree on an acceptable settlement.
If the parties agree on a settlement out of court, a judge or jury is not required to determine the amount of compensation awarded. Mediation and arbitration are other methods of alternative dispute resolution.
Such alternatives are usually quicker and less expensive ways of resolving the case than proceeding to trial. In these situations, the lawyers and clients meet and present the facts and arguments before an impartial legal representative.
Of course, your attorney will always keep their legal options open because a trial may be necessary in some cases. Sometimes, the only language that the insurance company understands is litigation. You may need to go some or all of the way to a jury to force the insurance company to finally make a fair settlement offer. If they still will not do so, then you may need to have the court issue a verdict.
You may worry about the cost of a lawyer and let that keep you from getting the legal help you need after a personal injury. We are here to tell you not to worry. You do not need to write a check for a retainer with money that you do not have, nor do you need to pay expensive hourly charges to an attorney. Instead, you work with your personal injury attorney on a contingency basis. This means that you pay nothing out of pocket and nothing at all unless you recover financial compensation for your injuries. Then, we receive our payment out of the proceeds of your settlement or jury award.
Personal injury cases are complex, with many rules and procedural deadlines. The statute of limitations provides a window of time within which an injured victim may file a personal injury claim.
At the very outset of your case, your personal injury attorney will help you by listening to you and learning the facts of your case. They will explain your legal options and how the law may view your claim. Sometimes, just hearing a reasoned and calm explanation from a lawyer can help put your mind at ease when you are dealing with the stress of your accident.
In Texas, plaintiffs must file most personal injury claims within two years of the accident date. If you miss that deadline, you may lose the right to receive compensation. Therefore, it is best to begin working with a lawyer shortly after your injury, so you are not at any risk of missing that deadline. However, there are exceptions to this rule, so you should consult an attorney to advise you on the appropriate time limits. Nonetheless, these exceptions are limited, and you should not count on one of them applying to give you more time to sue.
Injuries can be physically, emotionally, and financially life-altering. When it comes to the legal process, you should trust an experienced personal injury attorney to handle all the details for you. Quite frankly, you already have enough on your plate in the wake of an accident.
Experienced personal injury attorneys regularly fight for the rights of injured victims to seek the compensation they need. For more information or to schedule a free evaluation, contact an experienced, dedicated attorney at The Patel Firm.
Contact us today to discuss your legal options.