Personal Injury Mediation in Texas
Mediation is a voluntary, confidential process where a neutral mediator helps both sides reach a settlement without going to trial. In Texas, mediation resolves the majority of personal injury cases and is significantly cheaper and faster than litigation.
For informational purposes only. Not legal advice. Consult a licensed attorney.
Modified comparative fault (51% bar)
Fault System
2 years
Filing Deadline
$18,000 – $90,000
Avg Settlement
How Mediation Works in Texas
Select a Mediator
Both sides agree on a neutral mediator — typically a retired judge or experienced attorney in Texas. Mediators are not decision-makers; they facilitate negotiation.
Opening Statements
Each side presents their position and key evidence. The mediator identifies areas of agreement and dispute.
Private Caucuses
The mediator meets privately with each side to explore settlement positions, discuss weaknesses, and carry offers back and forth.
Negotiation
Under modified comparative fault (51% bar), fault allocation is a key discussion point. The mediator helps both sides realistically assess litigation risk.
Settlement Agreement
If agreement is reached, a written settlement agreement is signed immediately. It is binding and typically releases all claims.
Texas Injury Law Overview
Texas applies modified comparative fault with a 51% bar. The 2-year statute of limitations is strictly enforced. Texas does not require no-fault PIP insurance, though it must be offered. Texas courts — particularly in Houston, Dallas, and the plaintiff-friendly Hidalgo County — handle enormous personal injury caseloads. Texas is one of the most litigated states for trucking accident cases given its vast highway network and role as a major freight corridor. Texas caps noneconomic damages in medical malpractice cases at $250,000 per defendant (capped at $500,000 total for hospitals) under Tex. Civ. Prac. & Rem. Code § 74.301. General personal injury cases have no noneconomic damage cap. Texas caps punitive damages at the greater of $200,000 or 2 times economic damages plus $750,000 of noneconomic damages under § 41.008. Texas courts follow Daubert standards. The Texas Workers' Compensation Act allows some employers to opt out of the system, creating unique litigation rights against non-subscriber employers.