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If you were involved in a serious accident or fall in Texas caused by someone else’s negligence, one of the first legal details you must understand is how long you have to bring a civil lawsuit to request compensation from the at-fault party. Speaking with a qualified personal injury lawyer early in the process can…

Attending a free case evaluation with a potential personal injury law firm is the single most important first step you can take on the road to justice and recovery after a serious crash or fall. This initial meeting is far more than just a sales pitch; it is a critical, confidential strategy session where you…

Most reputable Texas personal injury lawyers charge for their services on a contingency fee basis, which means you pay absolutely no upfront costs and the attorney only gets paid if they successfully recover money for you. This fee structure is the key that unlocks the courthouse doors for every injured person, regardless of their financial…

If you were injured in a vehicle accident, fell in a public place, or were in another serious situation that led to harm, you may be wondering whether your own actions could prevent you from seeking payment from the other person involved. The good news is that in Texas, you can recover financial compensation for…

Working with a Texas lawyer who is Board Certified in personal injury trial law can provide a critical advantage for your case and your future. This elite credential, held by less than 2% of all attorneys in Texas, is a powerful indicator of proven expertise and trial readiness that insurance companies and defense counsel recognize…

There is no easy way to guess how long a Texas personal injury case will take to resolve. The exact duration depends heavily on case-specific facts, including the severity of your injuries, the complexity of your case, and the tactics employed by the at-fault party’s insurance company. Working with an experienced personal injury lawyer can…

Proximate cause in a personal injury claim refers to negligent conduct that directly causes harm in a predictable manner, creating legal accountability for the resulting losses. Texas courts examine whether a defendant’s conduct generated a clear, foreseeable chain of events leading to injuries suffered by a Dallas victim. The Law Firm Of Aaron A. Herbert,…

The distinction between negligence vs recklessness directly affects liability, available compensation, and case strategy in Dallas personal injury claims. The difference centers on a person’s level of awareness, their decision-making, and how far their conduct deviates from ordinary care. Negligence reflects a failure to use reasonable caution, while reckless behavior involves a conscious decision to…

Double indemnity is an insurance clause or rider that provides beneficiaries with twice the policy’s face value when a death results from an accidental cause rather than natural illness or intentional harm. These accidents may include motor vehicle collisions, slip and fall incidents, or motorcycle crashes. While the provision is designed to deliver greater financial…

Understanding what is a litigator can help injured victims in Dallas make informed decisions when their cases move beyond insurance negotiations. At The Law Firm of Aaron A. Herbert, P.C., we explain every step of the legal process so clients know who represents them and how their rights remain protected throughout litigation. A litigator handles…

A facet joint injury settlement depends on the severity of the damage, the strength of medical documentation, and how the injury impacts a person’s daily life. Settlement values differ widely in Dallas, depending on whether pain management, injections, or surgery becomes necessary. Insurance companies evaluate these cases based on consistent treatment, verified diagnostic imaging, and…

Every victim is unique. No two people are exactly the same, with identical strengths and weaknesses. Some victims have medical histories, past injuries, and pre-existing conditions that could exacerbate their injuries in an accident. The eggshell skull rule exists for these types of claimants. Learn how this doctrine might affect your claim as an accident…

Lawyers typically do not directly reduce medical bills themselves. However, they can play a role in negotiating with medical providers and insurance companies to potentially lower the amount you owe for medical expenses as part of a legal settlement or lawsuit. The extent to which medical bills can be reduced depends on various factors, including…

Being involved in an accident due to someone else’s negligence can leave you wondering about your legal options, including whether you can sue for pain and suffering. You may be dealing with mounting medical bills, lost wages, and significant emotional and physical distress. At The Law Firm of Aaron A. Herbert, P.C., we help personal…

If you’ve been injured due to someone else’s negligence in Dallas, Texas, understanding the personal injury lawsuit timeline can help you prepare for what’s ahead. At The Law Firm of Aaron A. Herbert, P.C., we know how daunting the process can feel, especially when you’re already dealing with physical and emotional pain.  This guide will…

Navigating the legal process can feel overwhelming if you’ve been injured due to someone else’s negligence or wrongdoing. One of the critical aspects of any personal injury case is understanding the types of damages you can recover. Specifically, you need to know the differences between general damages vs special damages—two fundamental categories of compensation in…

If you have been seriously injured in an accident, you may ask yourself, what is a catastrophic injury? Legally, a catastrophic injury is one that leaves the person with a long-term or permanent disability, rendering one unable to work and live normally. Many catastrophic injuries require ongoing, extensive medical treatment, rehabilitative care, and lifelong maintenance….

Seeking financial compensation for an injury that someone else caused in Texas will require some knowledge of how the legal process works. You will become familiar with one term in particular: damages. In legalese, damages are the compensation awarded to an injured party (plaintiff) for a negligent party’s (defendant’s) wrongful acts. In some states, the…

A victim’s medical bills are one of the main types of damages in a personal injury case in Texas. It often surprises people to discover that hospitals and health insurance companies can stake a claim for part of the financial award received in a personal injury case. This claim is a medical lien, and it…

Negligence per se is a doctrine of law in Texas that describes the situation where one is considered negligent for breaching a statute designed to protect public safety, resulting in an injury to another. As opposed to general negligence, which would require proof of failure to act reasonably, negligence per se establishes liability by a…

It is crucial to understand the difference between lost wages and the loss of earning capacity. This could help you obtain maximum compensation for your injury claim. A serious accident can impact your life in many detrimental ways. This could include making it impossible to go back to work, either temporarily or permanently. Texas law…

Personal injury law is a complicated system with many confusing doctrines you may have to navigate if you are an injured accident victim in Texas. One of the many legal doctrines that may apply to your personal injury case is the rule of vicarious liability. Learn about this complex area of law in Texas with…

When reviewing the insurance options, the term personal injury protection Texas frequently appears after being involved in a car accident in Dallas, TX. Personal Injury Protection (PIP) coverage is a vital component of an auto insurance policy, providing you with the financial means needed to cover your medical bills, lost wages, and related expenses. At…

Understanding the Texas personal injury statute of limitations is critical for those pursuing compensation after an accident. The law generally allows a two-year deadline to file a personal injury lawsuit in Texas. This timeframe applies to cases involving car accidents, slip-and-fall injuries, wrongful death, and other incidents caused by negligence. Filing your case within this…

Negligent actions lead to accidents every day. While some may be minor, others can be severe and upend the lives of those they affect. These types of accidents can be traumatic, overwhelming, and have long-term repercussions. They can also cause excessive financial burdens that may be difficult or impossible to sustain. With the help and…

In the competitive world of personal injury law, negotiation skills can make all the difference when it comes to securing maximum settlements for clients. Dallas personal injury attorneys are well-versed in the art of negotiation, employing strategies that consistently yield favorable outcomes. From meticulously preparing their cases to employing persuasive tactics in negotiation sessions, these…

In the realm of personal injury claims, justice is far from being a one-size-fits-all concept. The varying nature of incidents, the severity of injuries, and the overall circumstances surrounding each case make for a wide spectrum of verdicts and settlement sums. And when it comes to Dallas, you’ll find yourself immersed in a vibrant city…

Suffering from a shoulder impingement injury can be both painful and debilitating. Whether it was caused by a car accident, a workplace incident, or a slip and fall, you may be entitled to compensation for your pain and suffering. But navigating the legal process can be complex and overwhelming. That’s where the expertise of a…

Have you recently experienced a whiplash injury in the Dallas-Fort Worth area? If so, you may be navigating a complicated legal landscape, and understanding the importance of hiring an attorney is paramount. In this article, we will delve into the intricacies of whiplash injuries in DFW and highlight why having a skilled attorney by your…

If you’ve recently experienced a whiplash injury in San Antonio, you are likely going through a painful and frustrating time. Whiplash injuries often result from car accidents, and the effects can be long-lasting and debilitating. But don’t despair – there is hope for a full recovery, both physically and financially. In this article, we will…

In today’s fast-paced world, distracted driving is a prevalent issue that can lead to devastating accidents. As technology continues to advance, so does the potential for driver distractions. If you’ve been involved in a distracted driving accident in the Dallas-Fort Worth area in 2024, seeking compensation is your right. When it comes to navigating the…

In today’s digital age, distracted driving has become an alarming epidemic on the roads of San Antonio. As more and more drivers succumb to the temptation of using their phones or engaging in other distractions behind the wheel, the number of accidents caused by such negligence continues to rise. If you’ve been a victim of…

Have you been injured due to the negligence of a retail store in San Antonio? Don’t let the store’s carelessness go unpunished. Filing a lawsuit can help you seek justice and potentially receive the compensation you deserve. However, winning a lawsuit involves more than just showing up at the courthouse. It requires strategic planning, thorough…

Are you a victim of a retail store accident in Dallas, TX? Don’t let your pain and suffering go unnoticed. It’s time to unleash the power of legal strategies to maximize your compensation. In this article, we will explore the steps you can take to ensure you receive the compensation you deserve. Dallas, TX is…

In Texas, accidents can happen anywhere, even in retail stores. If you find yourself injured due to a slip and fall, a falling object, or any other type of accident in a retail store, it’s important to know your rights. That’s where this ultimate guide comes in. Our comprehensive guide will walk you through the…

Attention Texas shoppers! Have you ever experienced an accident or injury while shopping in a retail store? If so, you’re not alone. Accidents can happen when we least expect them, and navigating the legal system can be overwhelming. But fear not, because we’ve got you covered. In this article, we will provide you with expert…

If you or a loved one has suffered a spinal cord injury due to a slip and fall accident, you may be entitled to seek justice and compensation for your damages. However, initiating a lawsuit can be a complex and overwhelming process. That’s where this guide comes in. In this article, we will provide you…

If you or someone you love suffers a spinal cord injury through slip and fall in Texas, you should think about filing a spinal cord lawsuit to get the compensation you deserve. People who suffer from a spinal cord injury (SCI) are among the most unfortunate in slip and fall accidents. This type of injury can cause so much pain and affect one’s…

One of the many laws you need to know as a claimant during a personal injury claim is the statute of limitations. This is one of the most important laws to know in Texas, as missing your statute of limitations could end your claim before it begins. The courts in Texas obey statutes of limitations…

Orthopedic injuries are among the most common personal injury categories caused by mishaps, carelessness accidents and negligence of others. Consequences of these injuries may have on the victims’ lives include physical pain, mental suffering, and financial hardship. The goal of the personal injury law firm Aaron Herbert Law Firm Law is to provide each client…

In a world where electronic devices have become an integral part of our daily lives, the risk of battery explosions is a growing concern. And when such incidents occur, navigating the complexities of a battery explosion lawsuit is paramount. Whether it’s a faulty laptop battery or a malfunctioning e-cigarette, understanding the legal process and your…

When it comes to battery explosions, seeking justice is of utmost importance. In Texas, the handling of battery explosion lawsuits is a crucial process that aims to protect consumers and hold manufacturers accountable. In this article, we will explore how these lawsuits are handled in Texas, shedding light on the legal procedures and considerations involved….

When it comes to handling heavy machinery, safety should always be the top priority. Unfortunately, accidents can still occur due to faulty equipment, leading to severe injuries and even death. In such cases, those affected may have the right to file an injury lawsuit against the responsible parties. In this article, we will delve into…

Injuries caused by faulty equipment can have serious consequences. If you have been injured due to a defective product in Texas, understanding the legal ramifications and how to pursue an injury lawsuit is essential. From medical expenses to lost wages, the financial burden can be overwhelming. But you don’t have to face it alone. In…

In the year 2024, winning a fall down injury lawsuit requires a strategic approach backed by thorough preparation. As the number of such cases continue to rise, it is crucial for claimants to understand the key considerations that can make or break their case. Whether you’re a plaintiff or an attorney, this article will provide…

If you’ve experienced injuries as a result of an ATV accident in Dallas, seeking justice may be at the forefront of your mind. Filing a lawsuit is a crucial step towards obtaining the compensation you deserve. However, navigating the legal process can be overwhelming, especially if you’re unfamiliar with the intricacies of personal injury law….

Are you a victim of a car accident in Dallas caused by an uninsured motorist? Navigating the legal process can feel like a daunting maze. However, understanding the essential requirements to sue an uninsured motorist can make a significant difference in your case. In this article, we will explore the key steps you need to…

Are you or a loved one in Texas dealing with the aftermath of a burn injury? If so, it’s important to understand your rights and how to seek legal compensation. Personal injury claims for burns can be complex, and navigating the legal process can be overwhelming. That’s why we’re here to help. In this article,…

When it comes to amputation cases, protecting your rights is essential. Navigating the legal complexities of these cases requires the expertise of an experienced attorney who specializes in personal injury law. Whether you have suffered a traumatic injury resulting in an amputation or you are advocating for a loved one, having a skilled legal professional…

It is imperative to have competent, professional, experienced, and reliable legal advice when involved in a personal injury case. It is best to employ a Texas Board of Legal Specialization in Personal Injury Law. Only 3% of Personal Injury Attorneys are board-certified in Texas. It is an elite group of professionals in personal injury law…

What are common fall from ladder injuries that may result in a lawsuit? Our premises injury lawyers dive into this question. The ladder is one of the most dangerous everyday pieces of equipment. Most people have ladders in their homes or at work without realizing the significant dangers they pose. Ladders are behind a large portion of…

Suffering a concussion in a car accident can be a traumatic experience, especially if you weren’t at fault. To make matters worse, trying to determine a post-concussion syndrome settlement value on your own often compounds the stress and the symptoms accompanying your head injury. That’s why consulting with a skilled personal injury attorney is essential….

Shoulder injuries are one of the more common types of injuries received in car accidents. Some people realize that their shoulder is injured right away. But for others, symptoms of an injury don’t appear for days or even weeks.  If you have suffered a shoulder injury after a truck accident in Texas, you may be…

It can be extremely challenging when you have suffered a herniated disc from a car accident. An injury like this can turn your life around, making it difficult to work, drive, or enjoy hobbies. You may wonder how much of a settlement to expect for a herniated disc. Our lawyers at the Law Offices of…

Every year in Texas, thousands of people are killed or seriously injured in Texas bus accidents. Tragically, many of these accidents are the result of negligent, reckless Charter bus and Tour bus drivers and their employers. Whether you are a passenger on a Charter bus, Tour bus or in a motor vehicle or pedestrian, you…

In Texas, the civil justice system works by giving injured accident victims the chance to seek compensation for their losses from negligent parties. If you were recently injured in an accident as a result of someone else’s negligence, that person or party may owe you compensation. You need to understand how much your personal injury…

During a personal injury claim in Dallas, the insurance company responsible for assessing your eligibility for benefits will not want to maximize your payout. Diminishing your injury claim is the insurance company’s main mission. One thing an insurance company may use to investigate your claim is your social media accounts. Be careful what you post,…

If you have been injured in an accident in Texas, you may wonder whether you need to hire a personal injury lawyer. An injury lawyer is a licensed professional who is trained to represent accident victims during insurance claims and lawsuits. You may need a lawyer’s assistance in certain circumstances, such as if an accident…

You may not have to pay for your medical bills and other losses out of pocket if you did not cause your accident or injury. In San Antonio, you have the right to pursue financial compensation from the person who did cause your accident using a personal injury claim. One of the most frequently asked…

It is not a requirement to retain a personal injury attorney in Texas to represent you in Texas. You’re welcome to represent yourself during insurance settlement negotiations and even in a trial, but there’s a reason the overwhelming majority of plaintiffs opt for professional help. There are many things lawyers can do that the typical…

What happens if you get injured while rafting, paragliding, BASE jumping, or another extreme sport? Many of these activities require liability waivers, but a waiver does not necessarily preclude an injured individual from taking legal action against the organizer. In 2012, a man in Fort Worth drowned during a mud run. In 2013, a Pennsylvania…

An accident can cause significant injuries to a victim, leading to expensive medical bills and other related costs. The value of a personal injury claim can be substantial to pay for all of a victim’s past, present and future losses. An insurance company, however, may do everything that it can to limit a victim’s payout,…

When you retain an attorney, you become protected by something known as the attorney-client privilege. This is a legal principle that applies to both criminal and civil cases. In simple terms, it is a guarantee that what you say to your attorney remains confidential – it stays only between the two of you. Attorney-client privilege…

Personal injury mediation is a type of pretrial conflict resolution, also known as alternative dispute resolution or ADR. It is an opportunity for both parties involved in a personal injury case to resolve the issue by reaching a settlement rather than going to trial. Sometimes, mediation is a legal requirement before a case can proceed…

A personal injury settlement agreement is one possible way to end a personal injury claim. It describes an agreement made between the plaintiff (the injured party) and defendant (the liable party) to end the case with the agreed-upon resolution. Settlements have many benefits for both parties – which is why most personal injury cases in…

When one person injures another, the injured party may seek compensation for his or her injuries and associated expenses by filing a personal injury lawsuit against the person who injured him or her. In some situations, a third-party may share some of the blame. This third-party may not have directly contributed to the injury-causing incident,…

One of the many ways an accident can interfere with your life is by taking you out of work. Your injury may temporarily make you unable to perform the necessary tasks of your job, or you might have suffered a disability that will take you out of work for the foreseeable future. Either way, you…

There are two main ways to resolve a personal injury case in Texas: a settlement or a trial. Settlements are more common and generally more popular, as they are faster and cheaper than injury trials. Certain circumstances, however, require injury trials. Both legal options have potential advantages and disadvantages. Determining which is the best for…

In the digital age, social media platforms have become a popular way to communicate with friends and family and document daily activities. If you are one of the millions of people who are regularly active on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, TikTok or another social media platform, it is important to realize how your social media activity…

As residents of a populous metropolitan area, San Antonio citizens face a variety of threats and dangers in day-to-day life. Among those threats is mobbing, a form of group bullying focused on harassing or treating a victim badly with the intent to demean and inflict psychological harm. Mobbing comes in several forms and can happen…

Double indemnity is a type of clause often found in life insurance policies. It is a provision that allows a claimant to recover additional money – generally, a double payout – in the event of an accidental death. Unfortunately, insurance companies often prevent clients from receiving the financial recovery they deserve through double indemnity clauses,…

If you file a claim for an injury you suffered in a preventable accident in Texas, you may encounter one or both terms – personal injury and bodily injury. Although sometimes used interchangeably, these phrases have different meanings on a legal level. Understanding the difference can help you make more sense of your injury claim….

Soft-tissue injuries are common and soft tissue injury compensation amounts can vary in accidents throughout Texas. Soft-tissue injuries are not as obvious or easy to prove as hard injuries, such as broken bones. Proving your soft-tissue injury and obtaining a fair payout may take assistance from a personal injury lawyer in Dallas to improve your…

If you get injured in an accident in Dallas, you may be entitled to financial compensation. Unfortunately, the personal injury claims process can be confusing and difficult to navigate. Hiring a personal injury lawyer can vastly improve your legal experience and the outcome of your case. Not all personal injury claims require legal representation, however….

If you engage in an activity with known injury risks, you will most likely be asked to sign a liability waiver. Signing means that you accept the risks associated with the activity and that you are releasing the person or party from financial responsibility (liability) should something go wrong and you suffer an injury. Signing…

The actions you take before and during your personal injury claim in Texas have the power to either harm or help your ability to recover financial compensation. Many claimants make mistakes that are extremely damaging to their claims, even to the point of getting the claim denied. Avoid these top seven mistakes to enhance your…

A serious accident can affect your life in many ways. The physical and emotional trauma you suffer in an accident can interfere with every aspect of your life, including your ability to enjoy the things that you used to. If an accident in Dallas caused a loss of enjoyment or quality of life, such as…

Settling an accident claim in Texas requires many different steps and actions on your part as an injured victim. One of these requirements may be an independent medical exam, or IME. An IME is a medical examination that is separate from the one conducted by your primary care physician or an emergency room after an…

A settlement is a check an insurance company gives you to pay for your injuries and losses after an accident, such as a car accident. By accepting the check, you agree to end the lawsuit and relinquish your right to hold the defendant further liable for the same accident or injury. Although each case is unique,…

If you get injured in an accident, you may be entitled to financial compensation through the rules of personal injury law. An insurance claim or personal injury lawsuit in Dallas, Texas requires you to show proof of your injuries to receive financial benefits. One type of evidence that may be useful is your medical records….

Electric scooters, or e-scooters, have taken over the streets of Texas. They are rentable to the public for a low amount of money from companies such as Bird and Lime. San Antonio has hundreds of dockless e-scooters available for rent every day. Unfortunately, these vehicles are not as safe as many people assume. A lack…

If you suffer a serious injury in San Antonio, you may be overwhelmed by medical bills, physical pain and emotional suffering. It is important, however, to learn as much as you can about the legal process if you wish to obtain fair financial compensation. Otherwise, you could make a common mistake that negatively impacts your…

If you get injured due to someone else’s carelessness or recklessness, that party may be financially responsible for your injuries and related medical bills. If you signed a personal injury liability waiver, however, you may have given up your right to hold someone legally accountable. Learn more about liability waivers – including when they are…

Whiplash is an injury to the soft tissues of the neck, including the muscles and tendons. This injury acquired its name from the motion of the neck that most often causes whiplash: the head and neck rapidly whipping backward and forward in an accident such as a car crash. If you suffered a whiplash injury…

In your hunt for a Dallas personal injury lawyer to represent you after an accident, take your time narrowing down your options. Not all plaintiff’s attorneys are created equal. It is critical to find the right attorney for you and your case if you wish to optimize your results. This means referencing testimonials and online…

Suffering an injury in an accident in Dallas, Texas can be confusing and overwhelming. You may not know how to protect your rights or whom to trust during the claims process. Hiring a personal injury lawyer can be the best way to handle legal matters after an accident. Not all claims, however, require legal representation….

The average personal injury case in Texas involves many complicated legal processes that you may not have encountered before as a plaintiff. One is the deposition. Depositions take place during the discovery phase of a personal injury lawsuit, after filing a claim and prior to a trial. Learn what to expect if you have to…

Almost all serious accidents cause some degree of emotional distress to victims and their family members. Living through or witnessing a traumatic incident, such as a car crash or dog attack, can lead to significant emotional, mental and psychological harm.In Texas, the civil justice system allows injured accident victims to pursue financial compensation for their…

If you get injured in any type of accident, including a car accident or slip and fall, recovering the compensation you deserve can be a challenge. One of the first steps in pursuing financial recovery is submitting an effective settlement demand letter to the correct insurance carrier. Your demand letter should be concise, compelling and…

It is normal to feel impatient when it comes to resolving your personal injury lawsuit and receiving a settlement or judgment award. An accident in Dallas may give you painful, debilitating and expensive injuries that require immediate financial attention. Although no average settlement timeline exists, you can get an idea of how long your lawsuit…

Ridesharing quickly took over the transportation industry as the most popular method of hired travel, especially among the younger generation. Currently, the top two rideshare companies, Uber and Lyft, serve over 121 million users monthly. Yet ridesharing is not always the safest method of travel. Every year, hundreds of ridesharing vehicles are involved in automobile…

The civil justice system works by allowing an injured accident victim to become whole again through financial compensation from the at-fault party. If a victim succeeds in proving a defendant is liable, he or she will receive a personal injury settlement or judgment award for related losses. Understanding the components that make up the average…

One of the most common words you will hear during a personal injury claim in San Antonio is “negligence.” A party’s negligence in Texas allows you to seek financial damages from that person for causing you harm. There is a difference, however, between ordinary negligence and gross negligence. While both can make you eligible for…

If you get injured due to someone else’s carelessness, recklessness or intent to harm, Texas law gives you the right to bring a personal injury suit against that party. Before the law will side in your favor and grant a financial award for your injuries and losses, however, you or your Dallas personal injury lawyer…

If you get injured in an accident, such as a motor vehicle collision or a slip and fall, you may be eligible for financial benefits from one or more parties. The person or entity at fault for causing your accident may be financially responsible for your related damages, including medical bills and property repairs. Learn…

It is normal to feel impatient about settling your personal injury case. Your accident may have caused expensive property damage and medical bills, as well as the inability to work. You may not wish to wait several months or longer to resolve your case. It may not be in your best interest, however, to rush…

The first people at the scene of an accident – often those who witnessed the accident – are in a unique position to help victims. They can check for injuries, call an ambulance and keep victims calm while they wait for help. Like many states, Texas has a law in place protecting those who render…

When one person’s actions cause another person an injury, the victim (plaintiff) will have the right to seek compensation from the at-fault party (defendant). The victim will do so by filing an insurance claim or personal injury lawsuit. In Texas, a defendant can be held liable for both intentional acts of wrongdoing and unintentional negligence…

One of the most common types of losses inflicted by an accident is lost wages. Most seriously injured victims cannot return to work immediately after their accidents. Instead, they must take time off, either temporarily or long term.If the victim was not to blame for the accident, he or she should not have to pay…

Assumption of risk is a defense that could be used against you if you bring a cause of action for a personal injury in Texas. In your attempt to hold someone responsible for causing your injury, the defendant may allege that you assumed the risks of the activity – thus protecting the defendant from liability….