What steps should I take if I am being sued by a customer for a personal injury that occurred on my property in Texas?

Legal Advice:

If you are being sued by a customer for personal injury that occurred on your property in Texas, there are certain steps that you should take to protect your legal rights and minimize your potential liability. Here are some of the key actions to consider:

1. Contact your insurance company: If you have liability insurance, then you should immediately contact your insurer and notify them of the lawsuit. Your insurance policy may provide coverage for the injuries sustained by the customer, and your insurer may be responsible for defending you in the lawsuit. It is important to provide your insurer with all the facts and details of the incident, so that they can assess the claim and provide you with appropriate advice.
2. Consult with an attorney: You should also consider consulting with a qualified attorney who has experience in personal injury cases. Your attorney can help you review the lawsuit, evaluate your legal options, and provide you with guidance on how to proceed. It is important to choose an attorney who is licensed to practice law in Texas and who has a good understanding of the local laws and court procedures.
3. Preserve evidence: You should take steps to preserve any physical evidence or documentation related to the incident. This may include photographs of the scene, witness statements, medical records, and any relevant contracts or agreements. By preserving this evidence, you will be able to better defend yourself against the customer's claims and make a stronger case in court.
4. Respond to the lawsuit: You will need to file a response to the lawsuit within a specified time period (usually within 30 days). Your attorney can help you prepare the response, which should deny or admit each allegation of the customer's complaint and raise any affirmative defenses that you may have. It is important to respond in a timely manner, as failure to do so could result in a default judgment against you.
5. Participate in the discovery process: The discovery process involves the exchange of information and evidence between the parties in the lawsuit. You will need to participate in this process by responding to written discovery requests and attending depositions. Your attorney can help you prepare for these events and ensure that you comply with all legal requirements.
6. Negotiate a settlement: In many cases, it may be possible to negotiate a settlement with the customer before the case goes to trial. A settlement can help you avoid the time and expense of a trial, and may also limit your potential liability. Your attorney can help you evaluate any settlement offers and negotiate terms that are favorable to you.

Limitations and Exceptions:

It is important to note that the specific steps you need to take will depend on the facts and circumstances of your case. There may be certain limitations or exceptions to the advice given above, based on the specific details of your situation. For example, if the customer was injured due to your gross negligence or intentional misconduct, you may not be able to rely on your insurance coverage. Additionally, if you were not properly insured at the time of the incident, you may be personally liable for any damages awarded by the court.

Further Action:

If you have questions or concerns about being sued for personal injury in Texas, or if you need help with any legal matter, it is always best to consult with an experienced attorney. Your attorney can provide you with personalized advice and guidance based on your specific circumstances, and can help you take the necessary steps to protect your legal rights and achieve the best possible outcome.