Houston car accidents are an everyday occurrence. Clogged roads, clogged highways, and distracted drivers are a recipe for disaster. You’re on your way to work and out of nowhere you can’t even understand what’s happening, your life is ruined. Piling bills, lost income, and fear are some of the possible effects. Now you are in need of help. A Houston personal injury lawyer offers help in fighting your rights and walking you through the system. This page covers the reasons why you need a lawyer, what to do after a car accident, and FAQs for victims.
Why You Need a Lawyer After a Car Accident
You don’t want insurance companies. They’d pay you as little as they can. They may call you immediately after the accident and offer you a lowball settlement. Victims will take it without realizing how much you’re really worth. An attorney is your advocate against unfairness. Your attorney is knowledgeable about Texas law, does the paperwork, and fights for you. As you heal, your attorney works on your case.
Houston Car Accident Causes
Houston is a highly congested city. With so many vehicles on the roads, accidents happen due to any one of a dozen reasons:
- Cell phone or texting drivers
- Red light running or running stop signs
- Drunk or drug-impaired driving
- Racing down busy highways
- Sleep-driving in the vehicle
- Road rage and aggressive driving
- Tailgating or reckless lane changing
- Poor road conditions or poor weather
Every cause puts drivers, passengers, and pedestrians at risk of injury. The more definite the identification of the cause, the stronger the argument for compensation.
Types of Injuries After a Car Crash
Injuries following car crashes are minor or severe. They will soon fade away for some, but others will be plagued by them for the rest of their lives. Some of the most common injuries are:
- Whiplash and neck strain
- Back or spinal cord injury
- Traumatic brain injury
- Broken or fractured bones
- Burns and cuts
- Internal bleeding or organ damage
These injuries may involve hospital stay, physical rehab, and ongoing care. Your lawyer considers these costs as part of your claim.
What To Do Right After an Accident
Responding correctly after a crash can help guard your well-being as well as your claim:
- Call 911 and get medical care.
- Report the accident to the police and document it.
- Obtain information from the other motorists.
- Obtain photographs of vehicles, highways, and injuries.
- Obtain the names and phone numbers of witnesses.
- Seek out medical attention even if you are not injured.
- Interview an attorney before you talk to insurance companies.
All these do establish good evidence of the crash and prevent insurers from settling your claim.
How a Houston Lawyer Helps You
Having a personal injury attorney is having someone who understands how to represent you. They will:
- Investigate the accident and obtain evidence
- Review police reports and medical records
- Speak with physicians on your behalf regarding your long-term needs
- Compute lost wages and future loss of earning capacity
- Deal with insurance company phone calls and negotiations
- Fill out paperwork in advance of deadlines
- Go to trial if it is required
If you don’t have an attorney, insurance providers can bully you into accepting much less than you deserve.
Texas Car Accident Laws You Should Know
Texas laws govern all personal injury cases. Here are the basics:
- Fault state: At-fault driver pays damages.
- Comparative negligence: You’re less than 51% responsible and get.
- Statute of limitations: Two years from the accident to file.
An attorney will put your case into court on time for these deadlines. Missing a deadline or running late will make your claim lose.
What Compensation Can Cover
Houston car accident victims can recover all types of damages, such as:
- Hospital bills and fees
- Long-term therapy or care on a regular basis
- Lost wages because of lost employment
- Loss of future earning capacity
- Pain and suffering
- Repair or replacement of the vehicle
- Funeral cost if wrongful death
The dollar amount is based on the magnitude of injuries and how it affects your life.
Why a Houston-Based Attorney
Local familiarity counts. A Houston attorney is familiar with the Texas courts, Harris County jurors, and local patterns of car wrecks on highways. They are familiar with local physicians, wreck experts, and investigators who can assist in fitting your pieces together. Having a lawyer in your pocket is having someone nearby who knows how Houston jurors perceive automobile accident cases.
Choosing the Best Lawyer
In finding the top personal injury attorney in Houston, look for:
- Experience in car accident cases
- Good customer reviews
- Free consultation
- Contingency fee arrangement (no fee if you lose)
- Open communication and individualized attention
Your attorney must be able to explain it in a way that is most suitable for you and must behave as one of your relatives while handling your case.
FAQs
- Do I really need an attorney following a car accident?
Yes. For even a small accident, there are possible hidden injuries or future costs. A lawyer ensures fair compensation.
- How much does it cost to have an attorney?
Most Houston personal injury lawyers work on a contingency basis. You don’t pay anything initially. They only get paid if you win.
- How long is a car wreck claim?
Some are settled in a few months. Others longer, if a trial. Your attorney stays in touch with you.
- If I caused the wreck?
Texas law allows recovery if you are under 51% at fault. Your settlement may be reduced by your percentage of fault.
- What do I take to my initial consultation with my attorney?
Take the police report, medical bills, records, photos, and insurance documents. This will allow your lawyer to get started right away.
Closing Thoughts
A car accident leaves you hurt, upset, and not knowing what to do next. You don’t have to sit through it alone, though. A Houston, Texas personal injury attorney will advocate for you, take on the insurance companies, and battle for the compensation you deserve. If you or a loved one has been hurt in a Houston car accident, wait no longer. Call a Houston car accident lawyer today and start creating your future.