Can a Criminal Conviction Help My Texas Personal Injury Claim?

At Charles J. Argento, our Houston personal injury lawyer knows that, in some cases, a criminal conviction can potentially strengthen our Texas clients’ personal injury claims.

However, it is essential to note that not all criminal convictions will automatically strengthen all personal injury claims. The specific facts and circumstances surrounding the criminal case, the relationship between the criminal and civil proceedings, and the nature of your injuries all play a role in determining how relevant the conviction will be in your personal injury case.

How a Criminal Conviction May Help Your Texas Personal Injury Case

If your injuries were caused by negligence or intentionally, the at-fault party’s criminal conviction may be relevant to your civil claim. When an individual is found guilty of a criminal act, they can no longer dispute the factual evidence and circumstances that led to the other party’s injuries.

This may include personal injury claims brought against:

• Alcohol or drug-impaired drivers.
• Physical or sexual assaults caused by negligent security measures.
• Leaving the scene of an accident.
• Reckless driving.

In a personal injury case, our attorney must only prove the individual was negligent — not that they were guilty of a crime. This means you could still win your personal injury case even if criminal charges are dropped, as the criminal and civil cases are separate.

How Can Charles J. Argento Help with My Texas Personal Injury Claim?

If the person responsible for your injuries has been convicted of a crime related to the incident, such as drunk driving, assault, or a related offense, their criminal conviction can be used as evidence to establish liability in your personal injury case.

It demonstrates that the at-fault party engaged in negligent or illegal behavior that directly led to your injuries.

Texas recognizes the legal doctrine of negligence per se. This means that if a person violates a law or statute and that violation causes harm to another, it can be used to establish negligence in a personal injury case. A criminal conviction can serve as evidence of such a violation.

A criminal conviction can sometimes prompt the at-fault party or insurance company to acknowledge liability and negotiate a settlement more quickly. They may be more motivated to resolve the case to avoid further legal consequences.

To effectively use a criminal conviction to your advantage in a personal injury claim, it is essential to consult with our experienced personal injury attorney in Texas, who can evaluate your case, provide legal guidance, and help you understand how the criminal conviction may impact your potential recovery.

Contact Our Houston Personal Injury Attorney Today

At Charles J. Argento, our experienced personal injury attorney in Houston, we will work to build a strong case on your behalf and maximize the compensation you may be entitled to for your injuries and losses. Schedule a free consultation by calling (713)-225-5050 or contacting us online so that together, we can pursue justice by holding the negligent person or combination of parties liable for your full financial recovery.