We hear it all the time – many of our clients’ car wreck stories follow a similar path:
“I was rear-ended. I was heading to work in heavy traffic and stopped at a light – out of nowhere, another car slammed into me. It didn’t seem so bad at first; the cops came, and I went to the hospital for my neck and back. I did not have the chance to speak to the other driver or anyone who saw the collision. When they sent me home from the hospital, I was still in pain, and it never really went away. It hurts all the time; the medical bills keep piling up, but I am not getting any better. To make things worse, I missed a few days of work, and I’m not sure when my car will be repaired or replaced.”
With so many car accidents that happen each year in our city alone, this could affect you or a loved one. If that happens, speaking with a Fort Worth car accident lawyer from the Patterson Law Group can add essential context and guidance to a complicated process. Contact us today for a free case review.
Fort Worth Car Accident Statistics
One of the most disturbing statistics out of Texas regarding car accidents is that there were no “deathless” days in 2021. The causes of these fatalities ranged from distracted driving to intersection accidents and driving under the influence (among other factors).
Forbes Advisor (according to a 2024 updated report) ranked Fort Worth as the 9th city (in the nation) with the worst drivers. It received a score of 78.03 out of 100. It also has the 11th-highest number of fatal accidents caused by distracted drivers and the 12th-highest number of fatal accidents caused by speeding.
Unfortunately, the rate of accidents will not change in 2024. With over 1,000 people moving to Texas daily, more drivers are added to the 200,000 miles of state-maintained roads and highways. While state officials have invested over $2 billion in road safety between 2015 and 2022, accidents are still commonplace in Fort Worth and all of Texas.
The state averaged one accident per minute in 2023.
Even though the numbers are disturbing, TxDOT has a “Road to Zero” plan. The goal is to have no fatalities on Texas roads by 2050.
Texas Car Accidents: 2022 vs. 2023
From 2022 to 2023, there was no significant change in the number of car crashes, as shown by the table below:
|
Statistic |
2022 |
2023 |
|
Total Population |
30,026,547 |
30,500,500 |
|
Total Car Accidents |
555,586 |
558,953 |
|
Accidents with Property Damage Only (no injuries or fatalities) |
50,654 |
48,355 |
|
Accidents with Injuries (no fatalities) |
165,973 |
169,203 |
|
Total Accident Caused Injuries |
244,325 |
250,182 |
|
Accidents with Fatalities |
3,965 |
3,855 |
|
Total Accident Caused Fatalities |
4,407 |
4,268 |
Types of Car Accident Cases We Handle in Fort Worth
There are many types of car accidents, each requiring unique knowledge of the law, relevant industries, and fact patterns. Our car accident lawyers in the area have experience in:
- Work Zone accidents
- Distracted driving
- Drunk driving
- Driving under the influence
- Driver fatigue
- Hit and run car accident
- Uninsured motorists
- Uber/Lyft/Rideshare accidents
- Texting and driving accidents
- T-bone car accidents
- Rear-end car accidents
- Speeding accident
- Head-on car accidents
- Sideswipe car accidents
- Hit-and-run car accidents
- Failure to stop car accidents
- Failure to yield car accidents
- Running-a-red-light car accidents
- Running-a-stop-sign car accidents
- Driving-too-closely car accidents
- Side Impact Car Accidents
- Rollover Accidents
What are the Most Common Causes of Car Accidents in Texas?
Fort Worth is home to some of the most trafficked roads in the United States. The traffic alone increases the crash risk, but several driver-related activities also reduce road safety. Driver activities that commonly cause accidents include:
- Distracted Driving (Especially Using a Cell Phone to Text While Driving): Distracted driving, particularly texting while driving, diverts a driver’s attention away from the road, significantly increasing the risk of accidents. It is one of the leading causes of collisions, as it impairs reaction times and situational awareness.
- Speeding: Speeding is a prevalent cause of car accidents. It reduces the driver’s ability to steer safely around curves or objects in the roadway and extends the distance necessary to stop a vehicle. Higher speeds also result in more severe injuries and damages in a collision.
- Driver Fatigue: Fatigue diminishes a driver’s alertness, slows reaction times, and can lead to micro-sleeps, making it a critical factor in many road accidents. Long drives without adequate breaks often result in such conditions, making driver fatigue a common and dangerous cause of accidents.
- Driving Under the Influence: Operating a vehicle under the influence of alcohol or drugs drastically impairs judgment, coordination, and reaction times, making it a major cause of car accidents. This reckless behavior endangers drivers, passengers, pedestrians, and other road users.
- Failure to Yield: Failure to yield accidents occur when drivers do not follow right-of-way laws, leading to collisions at intersections, roundabouts, and when merging onto highways. This often results from misunderstanding traffic signs or aggressive driving behaviors.
- Drunk Driving: Drunk driving is a critical issue that significantly increases the likelihood of accidents, characterized by impaired cognitive functions and physical coordination due to alcohol consumption. It remains a leading cause of roadway fatalities and injuries despite strict laws and penalties.
An experienced Fort Worth car accident attorney will know how to collect evidence and construct a case to prove negligence in accidents caused by the above factors.
Common Injuries in Fort Worth Car Accidents
Fort Worth has a population of over 950,000 residents and welcomes millions of visitors each year. As you can see, this makes the possibility of accidents significant.
Heavy traffic increases the risk of car accidents, often leading to injuries that can significantly impact lives. Some of the most common injuries seen in car accidents include:
Whiplash and Soft Tissue Injuries
Among the most frequently reported injuries in car accidents are whiplash and other soft tissue injuries. These injuries occur due to the sudden jerking motion of the head and neck during a collision. The Texas Department of Transportation’s annual crash report indicates many soft tissue injuries, often caused by rear-end collisions and similar accidents.
Broken Bones and Fractures
The force exerted in car accidents often leads to broken bones and fractures, with the extremities being particularly vulnerable. Texas health data reveals that emergency rooms see a consistent flow of these injuries, attributed to both minor fender-benders and more severe collisions.
Traumatic Brain Injuries (TBI)
Traumatic brain injuries, ranging from mild concussions to severe brain damage, are alarmingly common in vehicular accidents. Texas law recognizes the impact of TBIs, allowing for substantial compensatory claims given the potential for lifelong disability and medical expenses.
Texas Statutes and Victim Rights
After an accident leading to injuries, Texas law (specifically, the Texas Civil Practice and Remedies Code) provides a framework for victims to seek compensation. Understanding these laws, such as the statute of limitations and comparative fault rules, is crucial for a successful claim.
What Damages Can I Receive?
- Economic Damages for quantifiable monetary losses like car repairs or medical bills
- Non-economic damages like pain and suffering or psychological injuries
- Punitive damages to punish particularly bad behavior
These damages can compensate for:
- Lost Wages and Income: Compensation for lost wages and income covers earnings lost due to the inability to work following an accident. This includes current losses and potential future earnings impacted by the injury.
- Property Damage: Property damage compensation is intended to cover the repair or replacement costs of any personal property damaged in the accident, such as your vehicle or personal belongings inside the car at the time of the incident.
- Medical Bills: This type of damage compensation covers all medical expenses resulting from the accident, including immediate treatment costs, ongoing care, medication, and future medical needs related to the injury.
- Pain and Suffering: Pain and suffering damages compensate for the physical pain and emotional distress suffered as a result of the accident, acknowledging the non-economic impact of the injuries sustained.
- Disfigurement and Scarring: Compensation for disfigurement and scarring recognizes the long-term impact of visible injuries, offering financial relief for altered appearance’s emotional and psychological effects.
- Disability: Disability damages address the long-term or permanent loss of ability to work or perform daily activities, compensating for the profound changes to the plaintiff’s quality of life and potential earnings.
- Rehabilitation: Rehabilitation damages cover the cost of physical therapy, counseling, and other rehabilitative services necessary to recover from the injuries or adjust to a new way of life following the accident.
- Additional Damages That May Be Unique to a Plaintiff: These damages are tailored to the specific losses or hardships experienced by an individual plaintiff, which might not fall under standard categories, such as loss of consortium or enjoyment of life.
In the event of a death resulting from the accident, the family may have the option of pursuing a wrongful death claim. This will include compensation calculated to compensate survivors for a lifetime of losses. In addition to the above damages, this can include:
- Loss of support and services, which can include lost wages and lost services like childcare or home care for a disabled spouse
- Loss of companionship and protection
- Loss of parental companionship, instruction, and guidance
- Funeral expenses
How Long After A Fort Worth Car Accident Can I File A Case?
Every state has a statute of limitations, which defines the period for which certain legal actions can be taken. Texas’s statute of limitations for a personal injury claim is two years. This means you have up to two years from the date of your car accident to file a claim.
However, remember that evidence may become more challenging to obtain. For example, witnesses may move or forget the details. Because the statute of limitations and practical realities of pursuing a case often become more complex, we recommend speaking with a Fort Worth car accident lawyer as soon as possible after an accident.
What Happens After a Car Accident in Fort Worth?
One vehicle accident can often have domino effects with devastating consequences for car accident victims. This can include:
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You get in a wreck and are injured.
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You end up with medical bills and perhaps even need long-term medical care.
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The insurance company does not respond in time or offer you a settlement for your insurance claim that does not cover your expenses.
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You’re stuck in limbo – and in pain – without transportation and at the mercy of some claims adjuster who cares more about his bottom line than about your well-being.
After a wreck, your life will completely and abruptly change, which is particularly painful when you are not at fault for the collision in the first place. The accident itself is just the beginning.
You’re left to deal with treatment and an insurance company (i.e., the classic David and Goliath scenario). That’s why it’s important to get medical treatment and contact an experienced, trustworthy Fort Worth car accident law firm.
Get Medical Treatment
A handful of Ibuprofen with your morning coffee likely won’t do it. You should seek out medical help from providers who understand the particular type of trauma you experienced in a car crash (contact us if you need help; we have a list of expert medical providers).
Did you know that 62% of people who sustained whiplash-like injuries experienced major residual effects for 10-15 years? Read more on our car accident injury statistics page.
Prompt medical attention may prevent any injury from worsening, help treat your pain, and fully document your injury if a claim or lawsuit is necessary. You can say, “My neck hurts,” but it does not have the same impact as a physician or medical record pointing out the specific injuries you’ve sustained and detailing what it will take to recover.
Don’t skip medical treatment for serious injuries because of the cost – once a Fort Worth personal injury lawyer represents you, you can generally find providers who will work with you. A “letter of protection” means the doctors providing you with care will be paid out of the final settlement, not upfront, so you won’t be racking up substantial medical expenses that you have to pay immediately out of pocket. This can be critical to getting you the medical treatment you require.
Get Legal Representation
With literally millions of dollars and thousands of lawyers on their side, an insurance company is a daunting opponent. If you try to go it alone, you’ll probably end up with a much smaller settlement than you deserve. Or worse, no settlement at all.
The insurance company has one goal: not your improved health or financial state. They are in business to make money, and the more they pay you, the less they have left over for themselves and their Super Bowl ads.
An attorney helps to level the playing field, and an auto accident lawyer in Fort Worth can initiate a personal injury lawsuit if needed to help recover the compensation you deserve.
Do’s and Don’ts After a Car Accident
Experiencing a car accident can be confusing. Knowing the correct steps to take immediately after the incident can significantly influence the outcome of any claims or legal processes that may follow.
Patterson Law Group, our auto accident attorneys in Fort Worth, offers comprehensive advice on navigating the aftermath of a car accident. We emphasize actions that protect your rights and well-being.
Here, you can find helpful tips on things to do and things to avoid after a car accident.
Do: Ensure Safety and Call 911
Take a minute to assess your safety and that of others involved. Move to a secure location if you’re in danger or blocking traffic without leaving the accident scene.
Texas law requires individuals involved in accidents resulting in injury, death, or significant property damage to immediately report the incident to law enforcement (Texas Transportation Code §550.026). This ensures a legal record of the accident and brings necessary emergency services to the scene.
Don’t: Neglect Medical Attention
Even if injuries seem minor or non-existent, seeking medical attention immediately is crucial. Injuries, especially internal ones, may not be immediately apparent.
In 2023, one reportable crash occurred every 57 seconds. This illustrates the real possibility that, at some point, everyone will be involved in an accident. Prompt medical evaluation will document your injuries. This is beneficial when filing an insurance claim as it is solid proof that the accident and your injuries are related.
Do: Document the Scene and Exchange Information
Gather as much evidence as possible. Take photos of the vehicles, road conditions, traffic signs, and injuries. Exchange contact and insurance information with the other driver but limit conversation about the accident to avoid inadvertently admitting fault. According to Texas law, information exchanged should include names, addresses, vehicle registration numbers, and insurance details (Texas Transportation Code §550.023).
Don’t: Admit Fault or Sign Documents Without Counsel
Texas follows a “modified comparative negligence” rule, meaning your compensation may be reduced by your percentage of fault in the accident. Admitting fault at the scene can detrimentally impact your claim.
Additionally, consult legal counsel before signing documents or providing a recorded statement to insurance companies. Insurance adjusters often seek to minimize payout, and your statements could be used against you.
Do: Notify Your Insurance and Consult an Attorney
Promptly inform your insurance company about the accident. However, consulting with an attorney specializing in car accidents can help you understand your rights and the best action. Car accident lawyers in Fort Worth at Patterson Law Group can navigate the complex legal landscape, ensuring you receive fair compensation.
Don’t: Delay Legal Action
Texas law imposes a two-year statute of limitations for personal injury claims (Texas Civil Practice and Remedies Code §16.003). Delaying legal action can jeopardize your ability to recover damages. It’s advisable to initiate legal proceedings as soon as possible to ensure all relevant evidence is preserved, and your claim is filed within legal deadlines.
How To Claim Compensation For Your Fort Worth Car Accident Injuries
Several steps are involved in the legal process for a personal injury claim. Ultimately, two main objectives need to be accomplished for you to obtain compensation. When you file a claim, it will be the responsibility of you or your attorney to prove that:
- The injuries you sustained were directly caused by the accident
- The party you’re filing a lawsuit against is either partially or completely responsible for the accident
Compensation will vary depending on the severity of your injuries and the circumstances surrounding your accident. You may be entitled to compensation for lost wages, medical bills, emotional distress, property damage, rehabilitation costs, medication costs, and lost capacity to perform work activities. In addition to current expenses and losses, your attorney can help you project future costs and losses to factor into your claim.
How Does Sharing Fault for Your Car Accident Affect Your Case?
The trauma of a car accident can devastate both the parties involved and their loved ones. Our Fort Worth car accident lawyers at Patterson Personal Injury understand how an accident’s aftermath can be overwhelming, especially concerning figuring out who’s at fault.
Generally speaking, anyone involved in an auto accident is liable to share the blame, even if they were the ones who were hurt most severely. In some cases, Texas law allows parties to share the blame under the ruling of comparative negligence.
Comparative negligence is a principle the court system uses to reduce the damage a plaintiff can recover in a negligence-based claim. The percentage of fault reduces a plaintiff’s payout. For more information on the specifics of comparative negligence, visit the Texas Civil Practice and Remedies Code website.
If you played a part in an auto accident in the city, it’s crucial to understand what this could potentially mean to you. If you are found to be partly at fault for the accident through comparative negligence, it will not affect your ability to file a claim, but it will affect how much that claim can be:
- You can seek damages if you are less than 50% to blame for the accident, but;
- Your payout will be reduced by the percentage you were found at fault. For example, if the total damage equals $20,000 but you were found to be 30% responsible for the accident, then you would receive 30% less than the total, which would be $14,000.
The Two Types of Comparative Negligence
Comparative negligence may be referred to in two ways: pure comparative negligence and modified comparative negligence.
Pure comparative negligence refers to the state allowing the plaintiff to claim damages for the percentage they are not at fault. In plain terms, the damages the plaintiff can collect are limited based on the percentage the court assigns; nearly 1/3 of states follow this rule.
Two types of modified comparative negligence exist the 50% bar rule and the 51% bar rule. The 50% rule means that the plaintiff can’t recover damages if they are at or over 50% responsible for the accident. The 51% rule is that a plaintiff can’t recover damages at or over 51% responsibility. This is the comparative negligence category most states follow.
Don’t be surprised if the opposing lawyer tries to blame you for the accident. It’s a common insurance tactic and can be expected. That’s why it’s so important to have a highly skilled for worth car accident lawyer fighting on your side to ensure you are not held responsible alone. We’ve seen countless cases over the years and know how to navigate in our client’s best interests when multiple parties are responsible.
What to Expect from the Legal Process After an Accident in Fort Worth, Texas
You’ve been hit by someone else, so the first group you’ll have to file a claim against is that driver’s insurance company. You may not have had the chance to get his information on the scene, but it will be in the police report. Texas requires all drivers to have car insurance, but about 20% of them don’t bother. If the person who hit you is uninsured, you’ll skip this step.
If the driver who hit you has insurance, we will negotiate with that company to determine how much they need to pay you (which will likely be capped at their client’s insurance policy). They could also try to weasel out entirely and claim that you are responsible for the wreck itself or that you exaggerated your injuries. Once the other party’s insurer has paid, it’s time to move on—to your insurance company.
You pay them each month, but that doesn’t mean they are “on your side” or going to behave “like a good neighbor.” The opposite is usually true – your insurance company needs money for the Super Bowl, just like the other guy’s insurance company.
The conversation will sound about the same, with the insurer trying to get out of paying or trying to pay a minimal amount. However, there are two bright spots though:
- As your insurer, the company is obligated to evaluate your claim in good faith and
- Your insurer must help you if you have Uninsured/Underinsured Motorist coverage (UIM), which is within your control. We recommend you contact your agent before a problem arises.
Defenses Insurance Companies Use In Car Accident Lawsuits
Insurance companies will use several common defense tactics to avoid paying for your injuries and damages in a car accident case. There are ultimately four unique defenses the insurance company may utilize.
1) The Accident Was Unavoidable
The insurance company may try to prove that the accident was “unavoidable.” If it were, negligence would have played no role in it, leaving the other party unresponsible.
2) New & Independent Cause
While many defenses will attempt to direct the blame on you, the new and independent cause defense requires the insurance company to admit that their insured driver was at least partially responsible for the automobile accident. The insurance company will argue that while their driver was partially responsible, a third party was ultimately liable for your injuries. For this defense to succeed, the insurance company has to prove that the other cause was unforeseeable and superseded the driver’s negligence.
3) Sudden Emergency
With this defense, the insurance company will have to prove that the accident occurred due to a sudden emergency that did not arise due to the driver’s negligence. If it can be proven that the driver’s actions did not create an emergency, the emergency was unexpected, and the driver acted with ordinary care. The insurance company can avoid paying damages.
4) Act of God
The “act of God” defense is the least utilized defense. An act of God is defined as a natural occurrence, such as catastrophic weather, that took place without any human intervention. The idea behind the defense is that humans shouldn’t be held responsible for events beyond their control. An insurance company may use rain, fog, or smoke caused by wildfires as “acts of God.” However, a good auto accident attorney in Fort Worth can easily fight this defense.
Fort Worth Car Accidents FAQs
Could You Sue An Insurance Company Without A Car Accident Lawyer?
Technically, you can sue an insurance company without a car accident lawyer in Fort Worth, but this would never be advised. Individuals with no legal training or education will not know the rules and procedures of the court, and the opposing party will take full advantage of your inexperience.
Several pitfalls may destroy your claim. You may not properly value what your claim is worth, fail to provide proper documentation, or give a recorded statement that could be used against you. It’s imperative to obtain legal representation to receive proper compensation.
How to Choose the Best Auto Accident Lawyer
Selecting the right auto accident attorney in Fort Worth can significantly impact the outcome of your case and the compensation you receive for your injuries and damages. It involves more than just picking a name out of a directory; it requires careful consideration of several factors to ensure that your legal representation has the experience, resources, and dedication needed to achieve the best possible outcome for your situation.
Here’s how to make an informed decision when selecting an attorney:
Look for Specialization in Auto Accident Law
Not all lawyers are created equal, especially when handling auto accident claims. Look for a lawyer or law firm specializing in auto accident or personal injury law. This specialization means they’ll have a deeper understanding of the laws and regulations affecting your case and how to negotiate with insurance companies.
Assess Their Experience
Consider the lawyer’s experience in terms of years practicing law and their track record with auto accident cases similar to yours. An experienced lawyer will have a strong history of securing favorable client settlements and verdicts. Don’t hesitate to ask potential lawyers about their success rates and experience with cases involving injuries or scenarios like yours.
Research Their Reputation
The reputation of a Fort Worth car accident lawyer within the legal community and among past clients can offer invaluable insight into their professionalism, ethics, and effectiveness. Look for reviews and testimonials on independent websites or ask for references from the lawyer directly.
Professional Recognition
Many reputable lawyers have received awards and recognitions from legal associations or publications. These accolades can testify to their expertise and standing in the legal community.
Assess Communication Styles
Effective communication is crucial for a successful lawyer-client relationship. Your lawyer should be accessible, willing to explain complex legal concepts in understandable terms and keep you updated on the progress of your case. During initial consultations, gauge whether the lawyer’s communication style aligns with your preferences.
Personal Compatibility
Your auto accident lawyer will be your advocate during a challenging time. It’s important that you feel comfortable with them on a personal level. Trust your instincts; it could be a good fit if you feel a connection and believe they genuinely care about your case.
Understand Their Fee Structure
Most auto accident lawyers in Fort Worth (including those at the Patterson Law Group) work on a contingency fee basis, meaning they only get paid if you win your case. Ensure you understand what percentage of the settlement or verdict they will take as their fee and whether there are any upfront costs or expenses you’re responsible for.
Transparency from the Start
A trustworthy lawyer will be upfront about their fees, the likelihood of success, and any potential challenges your case may face. Transparency from the beginning helps set realistic expectations and builds trust.
Availability to Take Your Case
Confirm that the lawyer has the time and resources to give your case the attention it deserves. A good lawyer should be able to balance their caseload without sacrificing the quality of their service to you.
Access to Resources
Complex auto accident cases may require extensive investigations, expert testimonies, and the utilization of advanced technologies. Ensure the law firm you choose has access to the necessary resources, including a skilled legal team and industry experts, to build a strong case on your behalf.
Making Your Decision
Choosing the best auto accident lawyer involves research, personal intuition, and practical considerations. Remember, the right lawyer can make all the difference in achieving the justice and compensation you deserve.
Fort Worth Car Accidents FAQs
Can You Hire A Car Accident Lawyer If You’re At Fault?
Yes, you can hire a Fort Worth car accident lawyer if you were at fault, but your compensation will depend on to what degree you were at fault. If the other driver was partly to blame, that driver must be more than 50% responsible for you to receive any compensation. If you are more than 50% responsible, you will receive nothing. This is also known as the “51% bar.”
If you are under 50% responsible for the accident, you will ultimately receive a settlement proportionate to the other driver’s share of fault. For instance, if you were 35% responsible and the other driver was 65% responsible for the accident, you would receive 65% of your accident claim.
What kind of evidence should I collect at the scene of a car accident?
Evidence can help speed up or build out a successful car accident claim. You can collect several things at the accident scene to help with your legal recovery.
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Information on any drivers involved: You’ll want to start by collecting the insurance policy number, driver’s license number, license plate number, and contact info for all drivers involved in the accident.
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Vehicle/property damages: Any damage to your vehicle or other related property should be documented with photos.
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Witness information: If there were additional witnesses to the accident, you should try to obtain their names and contact information.
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Road conditions: Road conditions can sometimes contribute to an accident. It’s worth documenting the conditions of the road surrounding the accident with photos, especially if there are any large potholes, uneven surfaces, broken concrete, road debris, etc.
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Road signs: Any nearby road safety signs, such as stop signs and reduced-speed zone signs, should also be documented.
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Security cameras: Note if the accident occurred near security cameras or red light cameras. The footage from those cameras could be acquired and used in your case.
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Statement: Record your statement soon after the accident to ensure you remember the details. You can use it to refresh your memory later.
Should I talk to the insurance company after the accident?
This is never advised. Accident victims often make the mistake of talking to an insurance adjuster before obtaining legal representation. Insurance companies are for-profit businesses that use unfair tactics to reduce or deny your claim. What you say to the other driver’s insurance company could be used against you. You must speak with a qualified car accident attorney before contacting the other driver’s insurance company.
Should I accept a check from the other driver or the other driver’s insurance?
While taking a check offered by the other driver or their insurance may be tempting, you should think twice before settling for a first or second offer. Once you accept a settlement offer from an insurance company, you cannot ask for more compensation, and insurance companies are known for finding ways to reduce claim values.
Whatever you receive should cover your medical treatments, property damage, and lost wages. A Fort Worth auto accident attorney can help you determine the full value of your claim and will fight to earn the compensation you deserve. You should not accept a check without first consulting an attorney.
What are the Most Dangerous Intersections in Fort Worth?
To find an answer to this question, we analyzed every reported accident from the Texas Department of Transportation over the last 5 years. With that data, we created an interactive Accident Map & compiled the 10 most dangerous intersections in the city.
Is it worth getting an attorney for a car accident?
It’s highly recommended to consult with a Fort Worth car accident attorney following a collision, particularly when the incident involves significant damages, injuries, or complex legal issues. An experienced attorney can provide invaluable guidance while navigating insurance claims and legal proceedings, ensuring your rights are protected.
They can also negotiate with insurance companies on your behalf to secure a fair settlement that adequately covers your medical expenses, lost wages, and other related costs. In cases where a settlement cannot be reached, an attorney can represent you in court, advocating for your best interests and working towards the compensation you deserve.
What happens if the person at fault in an accident has no insurance in Texas?
If the at-fault driver lacks insurance in Texas, you may turn to your auto insurance policy, provided you have uninsured motorist (UM) coverage. This coverage compensates you for bodily injury and property damage when the at-fault driver is uninsured.
If you don’t have UM coverage, pursuing legal action against the at-fault driver might be an option, but this route can be challenging. Recovering damages from individuals without insurance often proves difficult, as they may not have the financial resources to pay out of pocket. In such scenarios, consulting with a car accident lawyer in Fort Worth can help you explore alternative solutions and strategies for seeking compensation.
Should I release medical records to the insurance company?
Releasing your medical records to the insurance company should be approached with caution. While these records are crucial for validating your claim, insurance adjusters may scrutinize them to find reasons to minimize or deny it.
It’s advisable to consult with a car accident attorney before releasing any medical information. Your attorney can ensure that only relevant medical records are shared and can help safeguard your privacy and rights throughout the claims process, preventing the insurance company from misinterpreting or misusing your personal medical history against you.
What happens if someone else is driving my car and gets in an accident?
If someone else is driving your vehicle with your permission and is involved in an accident, your auto insurance policy is generally considered the primary coverage for any resulting damages and injuries, according to Texas law. This means your insurance could be responsible for covering the costs, depending on the specifics of your policy.
However, the other driver’s insurance might also provide secondary coverage if the damages exceed your policy’s limits. It’s important to understand the terms of your insurance policy and the potential implications for your premiums and coverage. Consulting with your insurance provider or a legal professional can clarify these matters.
What happens if you drive without a license in Texas?
Driving without a valid license in Texas is a misdemeanor offense that can lead to a range of penalties, including fines, community service, and potentially impoundment of your vehicle. The consequences become more severe with subsequent offenses or if driving without a license results in an accident.
The state takes this offense seriously as part of its commitment to road safety. The goal is to ensure that all drivers have met the necessary legal requirements and competency standards to operate a vehicle safely.
Can you go to jail for driving without a license in Texas?
Yes, driving without a license in Texas can lead to jail time, especially for repeat offenders, or if the offense is combined with other violations, such as driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs. The penalties work to deter unlicensed driving and promote compliance with state licensing laws. The exact duration of jail time can vary based on the circumstances of the offense and the individual’s driving history.
What should you do after a car accident?
Immediately after a car accident, prioritize safety by moving to a secure location and checking for injuries. Call 911 to report the accident and request medical assistance if needed. Exchange information with the other driver(s), including contact details, insurance information, and vehicle registration, but avoid discussing fault at the scene.
Document the accident by taking photographs of the vehicles, damage, and any relevant road conditions or signage. Seek medical attention promptly, even if you feel fine, as some injuries may not be immediately apparent.
Contact your insurance company to report the accident, but consult a car accident lawyer in Fort Worth, TX, before accepting any settlements or signing documents. An attorney can guide you on your rights and the best steps to take to protect your interests.
After an accident, how do my medical expenses and other damages get paid?
Medical expenses and other damages resulting from a car accident can be covered through various means. Initially, your car insurance policy, particularly if you have personal injury protection (PIP) or medical payments coverage, may cover some costs regardless of who was at fault.
If another driver was at fault, their liability insurance might compensate for your damages, including medical costs, lost wages, and pain and suffering. In cases where insurance coverage is insufficient, or disputes arise, legal action may be necessary to seek compensation. A personal injury attorney can navigate these processes, addressing your financial burdens effectively.
What factors affect my claim’s value?
The value of your claim following a car accident is influenced by several factors, including the severity and permanence of your injuries, the clarity of fault or negligence in the accident, total medical expenses incurred, and the impact on your earnings capacity.
Additional considerations include your pain and suffering, the cost of future medical care, and any lasting disabilities or disfigurements. Each of these elements contributes to the overall assessment of your claim’s worth, highlighting the importance of comprehensive documentation and expert legal representation to accurately present and negotiate your claim.
I’m in the hospital or unable to travel. How do I meet with a lawyer?
If you’re hospitalized or unable to travel due to your injuries, many personal injury attorneys, including those specializing in car accidents, offer flexible meeting options to accommodate your situation. This can include hospital visits, home consultations, or virtual phone or video conferencing meetings.
The goal is to ensure you have access to legal consultation and can proceed with your claim immediately. When contacting a law firm, inquire about their accommodations for clients in your situation to ensure you can meet with a lawyer and discuss your case in a manner that respects your current physical condition.
Learn How A Fort Worth Car Accident Attorney Can Help
If you retain a Fort Worth car accident attorney right away to represent you, you can be sure that you will be treated fairly. You can get professional medical and legal help after your crash. The right legal team can prevent, or at least minimize, a crash from having a lasting, devastating impact on your life.
Find a legal team that you can trust, that will work hard for you, will be responsive to you, and will only ask to be paid if they win for you. If you or a loved one has been injured in a car wreck, we can help. We work to ensure you are treated fairly and get your life back on track. Contact us today or complete a contact form to schedule a free consultation.
Contact us for a free consultation.
At the Patterson Law Group, our knowledge and experience extend to many areas of personal injury. Contact Fort Worth car accident lawyer today for a free consultation if you need legal representation for:
- Fort Worth pedestrian accident lawyers
- Fort Worth motorcycle accident lawyers
- Fort Worth truck accident lawyers
We have one goal: to provide justice to those hurt by another party’s negligence. We are efficient and willing to fight for you.
