Texas Car Accident Lawyer: What You Need to Know
Car accidents are a leading cause of injury and death in Texas. According to the Texas Department of Transportation, there were over 500,000 car accidents in Texas in 2021, resulting in over 3,000 fatalities and over 200,000 injuries. If you have been injured in a car accident in Texas, it is important to understand your legal rights and options.
What to Do After a Car Accident in Texas
If you have been involved in a car accident in Texas, there are several important steps you should take to protect your health and your legal rights:
- Call 911. If anyone is injured or if there is significant property damage, call 911 immediately. The police will come to the scene and file a report.
- Check on the safety of others. Make sure that you and any passengers in your vehicle are safe. If possible, move your vehicle to a safe location out of the flow of traffic.
- Exchange information. Exchange information with the other driver, including your names, addresses, phone numbers, insurance information, and driver’s license numbers.
- Gather evidence. Take pictures of the accident scene, including the damage to the vehicles, any injuries, and any other relevant details. Get the names and contact information of any witnesses to the accident.
- Seek medical attention. Even if you do not think you are seriously injured, it is important to seek medical attention as soon as possible after the accident. Some injuries may not be immediately apparent, and a doctor can properly diagnose and treat any injuries you may have.
- Contact a car accident lawyer. If you have been injured in a car accident in Texas, it is important to contact a car accident lawyer as soon as possible. A lawyer can help you understand your legal rights and options, and can represent you in negotiations with the insurance company or in court.
When to Contact a Car Accident Lawyer
It is important to contact a car accident lawyer as soon as possible after an accident, especially if:
- You have been seriously injured.
- The accident was caused by the negligence of another driver.
- The insurance company is denying your claim or is offering you a settlement that is too low.
A car accident lawyer can help you protect your legal rights and ensure that you receive the compensation you deserve.
How a Car Accident Lawyer Can Help You
A car accident lawyer can help you in a number of ways, including:
- Investigating the accident. A lawyer can investigate the accident to determine who was at fault. This may involve reviewing the police report, interviewing witnesses, and examining the accident scene.
- Negotiating with the insurance company. A lawyer can negotiate with the insurance company on your behalf to try to reach a fair settlement.
- Filing a lawsuit. If the insurance company is unwilling to offer a fair settlement, a lawyer can file a lawsuit on your behalf.
- Representing you in court. If your case goes to trial, a lawyer can represent you in court and present your case to a judge or jury.
Types of Damages You Can Recover in a Car Accident Case
If you have been injured in a car accident in Texas, you may be entitled to recover damages for the following:
- Medical expenses. You can recover damages for all of your medical expenses, including hospital bills, doctor’s bills, physical therapy, and medication.
- Lost wages. You can recover damages for any lost wages you have incurred as a result of your injuries.
- Pain and suffering. You can recover damages for your pain and suffering, both physical and emotional.
- Property damage. You can recover damages for the cost of repairing or replacing your vehicle.
- Punitive damages. In some cases, you may be able to recover punitive damages. Punitive damages are intended to punish the at-fault driver for their reckless or negligent behavior.
Choosing a Car Accident Lawyer
If you have been injured in a car accident in Texas, it is important to choose a car accident lawyer who is experienced and qualified. When choosing a lawyer, you should consider the following:
- Experience. How long has the lawyer been practicing law? How many car accident cases has the lawyer handled?
- Qualifications. Is the lawyer board certified in personal injury law?
- Reputation. What is the lawyer’s reputation in the legal community?
- Communication. Is the lawyer easy to communicate with? Does the lawyer explain things clearly and concisely?
- Fees. How does the lawyer charge for their services? Does the lawyer charge a contingency fee, which means that you only pay if the lawyer wins your case?
Contingency Fees
Most car accident lawyers in Texas work on a contingency fee basis. This means that you only pay the lawyer a fee if they win your case. The lawyer’s fee is typically a percentage of the amount of money they recover for you. Contingency fees can make legal representation more affordable for people who have been injured in car accidents.
Statute of Limitations
The statute of limitations for car accident cases in Texas is two years from the date of the accident. This means that you must file a lawsuit within two years of the accident, or you will lose your right to sue. It is important to contact a car accident lawyer as soon as possible after an accident to ensure that you do not miss the statute of limitations.
Common Causes of Car Accidents in Texas
There are many different causes of car accidents in Texas, but some of the most common include:
- Distracted driving. Distracted driving is one of the leading causes of car accidents in Texas. Distracted driving includes texting, talking on the phone, eating, and grooming while driving.
- Drunk driving. Drunk driving is another leading cause of car accidents in Texas. It is illegal to drive with a blood alcohol content (BAC) of 0.08% or higher.
- Speeding. Speeding is a major factor in many car accidents. The faster you are driving, the more likely you are to be involved in an accident.
- Reckless driving. Reckless driving includes actions such as running red lights, weaving in and out of traffic, and driving aggressively.
- Weather conditions. Weather conditions such as rain, snow, and ice can make driving more dangerous.
- Defective vehicles. Defective vehicles can also cause car accidents. If a vehicle has a defect, it may not be able to perform as it was designed, which can lead to an accident.
Conclusion
If you have been injured in a car accident in Texas, it is important to contact a car accident lawyer as soon as possible. A lawyer can help you understand your legal rights and options, and can represent you in negotiations with the insurance company or in court.
Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. You should consult with a qualified attorney to discuss your specific legal situation.
