Bexar County has 1,030 miles of state-maintained roadways. The urbanized area of San Antonio has over 250 miles of freeway. While the area is consistently ranked as having the best highway system in the U.S., accidents are not uncommon.
Even the safest drivers may be involved in an accident in and around San Antonio. When this happens, the situation can be traumatizing and confusing. While true, staying calm and taking the right steps to protect your rights is important.
At Patterson Law Group, our San Antonio car accident lawyers are ready to help you with your car accident claims. We will work to handle the legal aspect of your situation so you can focus on your recovery.
Here, you can learn more about navigating car accident claims in San Antonio and how our attorneys can help with this legal process.
Understanding Your Rights and Responsibilities After a San Antonio Car Accident
Navigating the aftermath of a car accident in Texas involves a comprehensive understanding of your rights and responsibilities under state law. This knowledge is crucial in ensuring you take the correct steps following an accident, which can significantly impact the outcome of any claims or legal actions you may need to pursue.
Reporting the Accident
Texas law mandates that drivers report any car accident resulting in injury, death, or significant property damage exceeding $1,000 to the authorities. This is crucial, as failure to report such an accident can lead to legal consequences. It also establishes an official event record, vital for insurance and legal processes.
Insurance Requirements
Texas operates under a “fault” car insurance system, meaning that the driver found at fault for causing the accident is responsible for paying the damages. Texas drivers must carry minimum liability insurance coverages of $30,000 per injured person, up to $60,000 per accident, and $25,000 for property damage. Understanding these requirements is essential because, after an accident, you will primarily deal with insurance companies to cover damages.
Right to Compensation
If you’re injured in a car accident in Texas, you have the right to seek compensation for your injuries, property damage, and other losses. This compensation can be sought from the at-fault driver’s insurance company or, if necessary, through a personal injury lawsuit. Compensation can cover medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering, and vehicle repair or replacement.
Statute of Limitations
In Texas, the statute of limitations for filing a car accident claim is two years from the accident date. This means you must initiate any legal actions within this timeframe. Understanding this limit is crucial to ensuring you don’t forfeit your right to seek compensation due to a technicality.
Navigating your rights and responsibilities after a car accident in Texas can be complex. However, armed with the right information and the assistance of a knowledgeable injury attorney in San Antonio, you can ensure that your interests are protected and that you take the appropriate steps toward recovery and compensation.
Steps to Take After a San Antonio Car Accident
Knowing your legal rights and responsibilities after a car accident is crucial. However, knowing what to do in the aftermath of an accident is also necessary. Taking the right (or wrong) steps can significantly impact any legal action you pursue.
Seeking Medical Attention
Your health is the top priority. Even if you feel fine, some injuries, such as whiplash or internal injuries, might not be immediately apparent. A thorough medical examination will provide a clear picture of your health status and serve as crucial evidence should you need to pursue a claim for compensation.
Documenting the Scene and Reporting the Accident
Document the accident scene with photographs or videos if you can do so safely. This documentation can prove invaluable when filing a claim. Additionally, reporting the accident to the police and your insurance company is critical. A San Antonio car accident lawyer can assist in handling communications with your insurance company to protect your rights.
Understanding Insurance Claims vs. Legal Claims
In Texas, dealing with insurance after a car accident can be complicated. Understanding the difference between filing an insurance claim and pursuing a legal claim is essential.
While an insurance claim is a request for compensation from your insurance company, a legal claim may be necessary if you need to seek damages beyond what insurance covers. An injury attorney in San Antonio will help you navigate these distinctions and advise on the best option.
Hiring a San Antonio Car Accident Lawyer
Selecting the right legal representation is crucial. A competent San Antonio car accident lawyer will advise you on the legal aspects of your claim and represent your interests in negotiations or court. Patterson Law Group prides itself on offering compassionate, comprehensive legal support to those affected by car accidents in San Antonio.
Taking the Right Steps After a San Antonio Car Accident
The road to recovery after a car accident in San Antonio can be long and filled with challenges. However, navigating car accident claims can be less intimidating with the right support and guidance.
Patterson Law Group is dedicated to providing the residents of San Antonio with the legal assistance they need to navigate these difficult times. If you or a loved one have been involved in a car accident, don’t hesitate to ask for expert guidance and support.
Contact our San Antonio car accident lawyers today. We will help you understand your rights and recover the compensation you are entitled to.
