According to the most recent statistics, motor vehicle traffic fatalities are on the decline in Texas, and that’s great news. However, being injured in an auto collision is no less a devastating and overwhelming experience. Concerns about things like medical bills and lost wages are an unnecessary source of stress for people who are recovering from serious harm. A Houston car wreck attorney can work to alleviate some of that tension and secure fair compensation for those who’ve been injured as a result of someone else’s negligence.
Consulting with a personal injury attorney may not be the first thing on your mind after a collision, but there are many reasons why you should.
The Initial Steps a Car Accident Lawyer Will Take in Your Case
The main goal of a Houston car wreck attorney is to handle the difficult tasks necessary to bring forth a successful insurance claim. Their efforts not only make life easier for people coping with the aftermath of a car accident but also increase the likelihood of a fair settlement.
Evaluating the Merits of Your Case
The first responsibility of an attorney is to evaluate your case objectively, assessing all the details of your accident, including potential liabilities and damages. They will then explain your legal options. If an experienced lawyer familiar with Houston car accidents agrees to represent you, it means they believe you have a valid case with a strong chance of winning.
Building a Strong Case: Gathering Evidence and Expert Testimony
Another aspect of an attorney’s job is to investigate an accident and gather the evidence needed to support liability claims. It is a process that may include any of the following duties:
- Obtaining police reports
- Speaking with witnesses
- Reviewing medical records and medical costs
- Analyzing lost wage reports
- Collecting on-site evidence such as photos or security camera footage
- Consulting with subject matter experts, such as accident reconstructionists
- Hiring a private investigator
A Houston car accident can happen in the blink of an eye, but a thorough investigation can take weeks or even months to complete. Most individuals don’t have the time or resources to conduct an in-depth investigation, especially if they are recovering from an injury, but the right attorney can help take some of the burden off their shoulders.
Negotiating With Insurance Companies
When you file a claim against an insurance company, it is going to have multiple attorneys working to settle your case for the least possible amount of money (so as to protect the insurer’s bottom line).
An experienced Houston car wreck attorney will know how to negotiate with insurance companies and handle whatever tactics they may use, and with that knowledge, they will work to maximize your compensation for injuries and damages, including severe cases like spinal cord injuries.
Maximizing Your Compensation for Injuries and Damages
Attorneys take all of these steps to not only maximize the amount of compensation their clients receive but also to help them receive that money in the quickest and least confrontational way possible. In fact, around 95% of lawsuits are settled without going to court.
However, a strong settlement requires careful attention and an understanding of the legal system, and if one can’t be reached (or if your case goes to trial for any reason), having a skilled attorney to protect your rights is a priority.
How a Houston Car Wreck Attorney Guides You Through the Legal Process
No one plans on being injured in a car or truck accident, but when these bad things happen, relying on the legal system for help can be the best recourse. The problem, however, is that the legal process can be confusing.
A Houston car wreck attorney relies on trust, transparency, and clear communication to help their clients at every stage of the process. These traits help prevent unwanted surprises and help clients meet their most urgent and immediate goals. Being in an accident can make you feel vulnerable and unsure about the future, but legal guidance from a trustworthy attorney reduces stress and lets you focus on the bigger picture.
FAQ
What Is My Claim Worth?
It’s understandable that most people want information about the value of their claim when they consult with a personal injury attorney. Each case is different, though, and their final values depend on factors such as property damage, medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering. Your attorney can provide an estimate after evaluating your case.
What Should I Do After a Car Accident in Houston?
The first step after a collision is to call 911 if serious injuries have occurred. Seek medical attention even if you don’t believe you’ve been injured. Injuries that aren’t directly visible, such as whiplash, may not be noticeable for 24 hours or more after the accident.
Additionally, if it is possible, gather evidence from the accident scene.
Can I Still Receive Compensation if I Am Partially Responsible for My Injury?
In Texas, you may still recover damages if you are partially at fault for an accident. The state uses a modified comparative negligence model, which means that each responsible party is liable for a victim’s injuries. For example, if you are found to be 10% at fault, your potential compensation may be reduced by that amount.
What Is the Statute of Limitations for Filing a Car Accident Lawsuit in Houston?
Under Texas law, you have two years to file a lawsuit in most personal injury cases. Some exemptions apply. For example, if a person’s injuries are too severe to allow them to participate in the legal system, the statute of limitations may be extended.
Call Ramsey Law Group for Houston Car Accidents
If you’ve been injured because of someone else’s negligence, you deserve financial compensation. Recovering from serious or even minor injuries can take months and put a strain on your financial stability, but our Houston car wreck attorneys offer free consultations and will determine whether you have a strong case. Call Ramsey Law Group today to learn more.