Car Accident Lawyers in Duncanville, Texas

Car Accident Injury in Duncanville, Texas?

If you’ve suffered an injury due to a car accident, our Duncanville car accident lawyers understand the challenges you’re facing. The problems following a motor vehicle accident aren’t limited to the physical injuries, but also encompasses significant emotional and financial distress.

You may be dealing with escalating medical expenses, lost wages, and the emotional and physical pain associated with healing. Moreover, the task of navigating the legal process to claim the compensation you deserve can be daunting during such a stressful period.

Our Duncanville car accident lawyers recognize the profound effects a car crash can have on your life and that of your family members. We are dedicated to lightening your load by managing every detail of your claim. This includes conducting a comprehensive investigation of the accident, compiling evidence, and dealing with insurance companies on your behalf.

Our aim is to not only achieve the most favorable outcome for your case but also to allow you the peace of mind to concentrate on your recovery, free of worry. Reach out to us now for a FREE CONSULTATION.

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How Can Hiring Our Duncanville Car Accident Lawyers Help?

Hiring our Duncanville car accident lawyers improves the chances of securing the full compensation you’re entitled to after an accident. Our experienced team is well-versed in Texas traffic laws and the challenges of car accident claims, ensuring that every aspect of your case is carefully handled. Here’s what we will do for you:

  • Thorough Investigation: We conduct detailed investigations to gather all necessary evidence, including police reports, witness statements, dash cameras, and medical records, to build a strong case in your favor.
  • Expert Negotiation: Our lawyers possess proven negotiation skills with insurance companies, aiming to secure the highest possible settlement without the need for a lengthy court process. We obtained 40 of the top 100 motor vehicle accident settlements in Texas in 2022, and we can help you, too.
  • Legal Representation: Should your case go to court, you have skilled litigators by your side to represent your interests and advocate fiercely for your rights.
  • Guidance and Support: We provide continuous guidance and support throughout the legal process, ensuring you understand each step and make informed decisions.

Choosing Thompson Law means partnering with a firm that prioritizes your well-being and financial recovery. With us, you gain a relentless advocate who is committed to securing the justice and compensation you deserve. Our track record of success and our commitment to personal attention set us apart.

Leverage our expertise and resources to ease the burden during this challenging time. Contact us today for a FREE CONSULTATION and take the first step towards reclaiming your life after an accident.

Motor Vehicle Crash Statistics in Duncanville, TX

Data on each reported car accident is gathered and compiled by the Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT). In 2022, Duncanville, TX saw a total of 867 crashes. These incidents varied in severity, and included:

  • Fatality crashes:  6 fatality accidents resulting in the deaths of 6 individuals
  • Serious injury crashes:  22 serious injury crashes resulting in serious injuries to 28 individuals
  • Minor injury crashes:  131 minor injury crashes resulting in minor injuries to 173 individuals
  • Possible injury crashes:  150 possible injury crashes resulting in possible injuries to 248 individuals
  • No injury crashes:  535 crashes in which 1,706 individuals were not injured
  • Unknown severity crashes:  23 unknown severity crashes resulting in unknown injuries to 150 individuals

Sources: Crashes and Injuries by Cities and Towns; Crashes and Injuries by County.

Most Common Causes of Motor Vehicle Crashes in Duncanville, TX

The majority of motor vehicle accidents in Duncanville, TX during 2022 can be attributed to a few specific causes. The top 6 causes of crashes accounted for 62% of all accidents. Here are those primary contributors to wrecks:

  1. Driver Inattention: Leading the list, driver inattention was responsible for 174 wrecks.
  2. Unsafe Lane Changes: This risky maneuver resulted in 110 wrecks.
  3. Failure to Yield the Right of Way When Turning Left: A common cause of collisions, resulting in 103 wrecks.
  4. Speeding: Exceeding the speed limit was the cause of 73 wrecks.
  5. Tailgating: Following too closely resulted in 72 wrecks.
  6. Running a Stop Sign or Red Light: A dangerous choice that led to 71 wrecks.

Understanding these causes is a step toward preventing future accidents and enhancing road safety for everyone in Duncanville, TX.

What Should I Do After a Motor Vehicle Collision?

Following a motor vehicle collision, taking the right steps can significantly affect your ability to secure justice and compensation. Here is a concise guide to help you through this difficult time:

  1. Ensure Safety: First, ensure that you and any passengers are safe. If you can, move to a safe location away from traffic.
  2. Call 911: It’s crucial to report the accident to the police, even if it appears minor. This will provide an official record in the form of a Duncanville crash report, which is vital for insurance and legal purposes.
  3. Exchange Information: Exchange contact and insurance information with the other driver(s), but avoid discussing fault or liability at the scene.
  4. Document the Scene: If possible, take photos or videos of the scene, including vehicle positions, visible damage, and any relevant road conditions or signs.
  5. Seek Medical Attention: Even if you don’t feel injured, it’s essential to see a healthcare provider as soon as possible. Some injuries may not be immediately apparent.
  6. Contact Our Duncanville Car Accident Lawyers: Before speaking with insurance companies, consult with our accident lawyers to understand your rights and the best course of action.

Choosing Thompson Law means you’re not just getting legal representation; you’re gaining a partner who is committed to fighting for you. We offer a FREE CONSULTATION and work on a contingency fee basis, meaning there’s NO FEE UNLESS WE WIN.

When Should I Contact an Accident Attorney After a Car Wreck?

Contacting our accident attorneys immediately after a car accident is crucial. Ideally, you should reach out to a lawyer before engaging with insurance companies or accepting any settlements. This ensures that your rights are protected and that you have professional guidance in navigating the complex legal and insurance processes.

Our experienced Duncanville car accident lawyers can evaluate your case, help determine the full extent of your potential compensation, and advise you on the best steps to take for your situation. The period immediately following an accident is critical; evidence needs to be preserved, and witnesses’ memories are most accurate. Therefore, seeking our legal counsel as soon as possible can significantly improve the outcome of your case.

DOs and DON’Ts After a Car Accident in Duncanville, TX

See the infographic from our Duncanville car accident lawyers below for more detailed info on what to do after a car accident.

What-Should-I-Do-After-a-Car-Accident-Dos-and-Donts

 

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We provide car crash victims with dedicated and tenacious legal representation, ensuring that you get fair value for your claim. Our Duncanville car accident lawyers will build a strong case with supporting evidence so that you recover the money that you deserve.

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What Determines the Value of a Car Wreck Injury Claim?

The value of a car wreck injury claim hinges on a multitude of factors, all crucial in assessing the extent of damages and the compensatory figure warranted. Key components include:

  • Medical Expenses: The cost of medical care, both immediate and ongoing, forms a significant portion of the claim value. This covers hospital bills, surgeries, medications, physical therapy, and any future medical needs attributable to the accident.
  • Lost Wages and Earning Capacity: Compensation may cover lost earnings during recovery. Furthermore, if the injuries affect your ability to work in the future, you may be compensated for lost earning potential.
  • Pain and Suffering: This non-economic damage compensates for the physical pain and emotional distress suffered as a result of the accident. Calculating this figure is complex and often requires expert testimony.
  • Property Damage: The cost to repair or replace your vehicle and any other personal property damaged in the crash is also considered.
  • Fault and Liability: The degree of fault each party bears for the accident can significantly impact the claim’s value. Texas’s comparative fault rules may reduce your compensation if you are found partially at fault.

Each case is unique, and determining the value of your claim involves a detailed analysis of these and potentially other factors, underscoring the importance of consulting with our Duncanville car accident lawyers. Our attorneys can accurately assess the full scope of your damages and advocate for a fair settlement or court award.

If you have been the victim of an injury accident, contact our Duncanville car accident lawyers for a FREE CONSULTATION.

What Losses Can I Claim in an Auto Accident?

These losses fall into three primary categories: economic, non-economic, and, in some cases, punitive damages.

  • Economic Damages are tangible losses that have a specific monetary value attached. These can include medical bills for treatments related to the accident, such as emergency room visits, physical therapy, and ongoing care costs. Lost wages from time off work during recovery, and the repair or replacement costs for your vehicle and other personal items damaged in the crash, also fall under economic damages. An example might be an individual who incurs $50,000 in medical expenses and loses $10,000 in wages while recovering from injuries sustained in the accident.
  • Non-Economic Damages compensate for the intangible, subjective losses resulting from the accident. This category often includes pain and suffering, emotional distress, loss of enjoyment of life, and loss of companionship or consortium. For instance, if the accident leads to chronic pain that prevents the individual from engaging in hobbies they once loved, such loss of enjoyment can be claimed under non-economic damages.
  • Punitive Damages are less common and are not directly related to the compensation of losses. Instead, they are awarded to punish the at-fault party for particularly reckless or egregious behavior and to deter such conduct in the future. An example might be a driver who caused an accident while driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs. Note, punitive damages are not available in all cases and are subject to specific legal criteria.

Call our accident attorneys in Duncanville today for a FREE, NO OBLIGATION CONSULTATION.

Common Auto Accident Injuries

Auto accidents, regardless of their severity, can result in a wide variety of injuries to drivers and passengers. These injuries often depend on several factors, including the crash’s force, the occupants’ positions in the vehicle at the time of the collision, and whether or not seat belts were used. Here’s a look at some common injuries that occur as a result of motor vehicle accidents:

  • Whiplash and Neck Injuries: Rapid back-and-forth movement of the head often results in whiplash, causing pain, stiffness, and reduced range of motion.
  • Lacerations and Abrasions: Broken glass and metal can cause cuts and scrapes, which, while they may seem minor, can lead to serious infections if not properly treated.
  • Broken Bones: Arms, legs, ribs, and hips are particularly vulnerable to fractures in car crashes.
  • Joint Injuries: Collisions often force the body into unnatural positions, leading to severe joint injuries, including dislocations and sprains. These injuries can affect the knees, shoulders, and wrists, severely limiting mobility and requiring extensive physical therapy.
  • Traumatic Brain Injuries (TBIs): These can range from mild concussions to severe brain damage, affecting cognitive functions and potentially leading to long-term disabilities.
  • Spinal Cord Injuries: Damage to any part of the spinal cord or nerves at the end of the spinal canal can cause permanent changes in strength, sensation, and other body functions.
  • Internal Injuries: Internal bleeding or damage to internal organs often requires immediate medical attention and can be life-threatening.
  • Amputation Injuries: In severe cases, car accidents can lead to the traumatic loss of a limb or necessitate surgical amputation. Such injuries can have profound effects on a person’s quality of life, requiring long-term medical care, rehabilitation, and adjustments to daily living activities.
  • Psychological Injuries: Beyond physical injuries, many individuals experience emotional and psychological distress, including PTSD, anxiety, and depression, after being involved in a car accident.

It’s crucial for anyone involved in an auto accident to seek medical attention immediately, even if no injuries are apparent at the moment. Some injuries may not be noticeable right away but can pose serious health risks if left untreated.

Can I Be Partially At-Fault and Still Make an Injury Claim?

Yes, in Texas, you can still make an injury claim even if you are found to be partially at fault for the accident. Under Texas law, this is known as “proportionate responsibility.” It allows individuals who are less than 51% responsible for an accident to recover damages. However, the compensation awarded will be reduced by the percentage of fault attributed to them.

For instance, if you are found to be 30% at fault for the accident and the total damages amount to $100,000, your compensation would be reduced by 30%, meaning you would be eligible to receive $70,000. This rule as it significantly impacts the outcome of many injury claims in Texas, making the advice of our Duncanville car accident lawyers invaluable.

What Happens if I Was an Injured Passenger?

As an injured passenger in a car accident, you have the right to seek compensation for your injuries. Unlike drivers, passengers rarely have a part in causing the accident, making it easier to file claims against the driver or drivers responsible. This can include filing a claim against the driver of the vehicle you were in or the drivers of other vehicles involved in the accident.

Your claim can cover medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other damages you’ve incurred due to the accident. In multiparty accidents, identifying the responsible parties and navigating the claims process can become complex.

Our skilled personal injury attorneys can advocate on your behalf, ensuring that your rights are protected and that you receive the full compensation to which you’re entitled. Remember, each case has its nuances, and the best course of action depends on the specifics of the accident and the extent of your injuries.

How Does the Injury Claims Process Work?

The post-accident injury claims process involves several steps designed to ensure the victim receives fair compensation for their damages. Here’s a brief overview of how it typically works:

  1. Immediate Medical Attention: First and foremost, seek medical treatment for any injuries. This not only ensures your health and safety but also begins the documentation of your injuries which is crucial for your claim.
  2. Incident Report: File a report with the police, and ensure you obtain a copy. This serves as an official record of the accident and can be vital evidence for your claim.
  3. Consultation with Our Duncanville Car Accident Lawyers: Engaging with our experienced attorneys can significantly increase your chances of a successful claim. They can guide you through the process, represent your interests, and negotiate on your behalf.
  4. Documentation and Evidence Collection: Gather all possible evidence, including photos of the accident scene, witness statements, and any surveillance footage. Your lawyer will also help in compiling your medical records, bills, and proof of lost wages which are critical in determining the value of your claim.
  5. Claim Submission: Your attorney will submit a claim on your behalf to the responsible party’s insurance company, detailing the damages and the compensation being sought.
  6. Negotiations with Insurance Companies: Following the claim submission, there will be a negotiation phase where your attorney and the insurance company discuss the settlement. This is where having a skilled lawyer is crucial; they will fight for a fair compensation figure based on the damages suffered.
  7. Resolution or Trial: Ideally, the negotiation results in a satisfactory settlement. However, if the insurance company’s offer is insufficient or negotiations break down, your case may go to trial where a judge or jury will decide the outcome.

The timeline of a personal injury claim can be long, and the process can be complex and time-consuming. But, our Duncanville car accident lawyers can guide and support you every step of the way.

How Long Do I Have to Make an Injury Claim?

The time frame for filing an injury claim, often referred to as the “statute of limitations,” varies significantly by state in the United States. Generally, it ranges from one to six years from the date of the accident. However, this can depend on the type of claim and the specific laws of the state where the accident occurred. For example, the personal injury statute of limitations in Texas is 2 years, but claims against government entities may have shorter filing deadlines.

Failing to file within the statute of limitations can result in the loss of your right to seek compensation for your injuries. To avoid such an outcome, contacting our Duncanville car accident lawyers as soon as possible after your accident is crucial.

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Our Duncanville Car Accident Lawyers Charge NO UPFRONT FEES

Let Our Duncanville Car Accident Lawyers Help!

At our law firm, we prioritize your recovery and peace of mind above all. This is why our Duncanville car accident lawyers operate on a contingency fee basis, meaning we charge NO UPFRONT FEES. You owe us nothing unless we win your case.

Contact us today for a FREE CONSULTATION and receive the dedicated, expert legal representation you deserve. Our team is committed to fighting for the maximum compensation you are entitled to, helping you move past this challenging time.

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If you need a Duncanville car accident lawyer, give us a call today and let us do the fighting. Hopefully, you never need lawyers for a car wreck in Duncanville, but it never hurts to have one saved in your phone so you are not searching for “car accident lawyer duncanville tx” when you most need one. It does not matter whether you live in Duncanville or were just visiting when your accident happened – we can help.

Car Accident FAQs

Auto Accident

If you are injured in any type of accident, your first priority should be to seek immediate medical attention, even if you are not certain that you are injured. Seeking immediate medical treatment does two things: 1) it ensures injuries you sustained are diagnosed and treated; and, 2) it helps eliminate any doubt by the insurance company that your injuries were caused by the accident.

Often, the shock and adrenaline of an accident can mask symptoms of injuries, so making the mistake of skipping a medical examination can have profound consequences. By seeking prompt medical treatment, you protect both your health and your ability to seek compensation for your injuries with the help of your attorney.

If you were in a motor vehicle accident we have also detailed here what to do after a car accident.

A skilled personal injury lawyer is necessary to get full and fair compensation for injuries you sustained in an accident. Most defendants, whether individual drivers or commercial vehicle operators, are covered by liability insurance. Those insurance companies are not obligated to protect or take care of you. Insurance companies exist to protect the defendant (their customer) who caused the wreck. 

A personal injury attorney can help you obtain compensation for every category of damages to which you are legally entitled. These damages can include things like: medical bills, lost wages, property damage, pain & suffering, punitive damages, loss of limb, diminished mental function, physical impairment, scarring or disfigurement, emotional or mental trauma, and loss of consortium (in wrongful death claims). Further, you may be entitled to future medical bills, future lost income, future pain and suffering, and other damages in severe injury cases.

The largest factor affecting your claim’s value is the severity or magnitude of your injuries. More severe injuries typically require more medical treatment. So it is essential to have all your injuries documented properly by seeking immediate treatment with doctors or hospitals, and continuing under the care and direction of your doctors as long as necessary to heal. Without prompt and consistent medical treatment and documentation, an injury claim becomes very difficult to pursue, let alone win. 

Of course, other factors an also have an impact, and each and every case is different. Were you injured in a commercial vehicle wreck or truck wreck that totaled your car, or was it a fender bender that did very little damage? Was the other driver intoxicated or drunk, or speeding? A multitude of factors may play into your claim’s overall likely value. An experienced personal injury lawyer will be able to visit with you and talk to you more specifically about factors which may affect your particular claim.  

In Texas, you usually have two (2) years from the date of incident to file a personal injury claim before it is barred by the statute of limitations. There are exceptions to this 2-year time limit in Texas, for minors and others. Further, other states have different time limits, and the limit that applies is typically for the state in which the accident occurred.

The safest course of action for someone injured in a car wreck, truck wreck, slip and fall, or any other type of accident is to consult with a personal injury attorney. This will help ensure that you do not miss the applicable limitations period. Moreover, it will ensure the right investigations are conducted, and the proper steps are taken to preserve the evidence, photos, witness statements, and records needed to successfully pursue your claim. 

If you are injured in a hit-and-run wreck (and are unable to locate the driver) or are hurt in a collision where the other driver does not have insurance, you are not necessarily out of options in terms of financial recovery. You may still be able to recover for your personal injuries if your own policy has Uninsured Motorist (UM) coverage or Personal Injury Protection (PIP). It’s a good idea to contact your insurance company to confirm what types of coverage you have on your policy before an accident, but if you have been hit be sure to ask these questions before finalizing your claim request. Even if you do not have UM or PIP, the attorneys and investigators at Thompson Law can work to track down the other driver in a hit-and-run accident. To do this, we rely on witnesses who may have captured a photo of the car or license plate and/or available surveillance camera footage that might have captured the wreck.  

Typical damages you can recover in a personal injury claim include: medical bills, lost wages, property damage, pain and suffering, and in some cases even punitive damages. In severe injury cases, other damages may be recoverable, such as: future medical bills, future lost income, future pain and suffering, loss of body member or mental function, physical impairment, disfigurement, emotional or mental trauma, and loss of consortium (in wrongful death claims).

Uninsured Motorist (UM) Coverage can help save the day if you are hit by an uninsured driver or if you are the victim in a hit-and-run collision. In short, UM coverage is an add-on coverage that drivers can add to their auto insurance policies that will protect them in the event that they are in an auto accident with a driver who either does not have insurance or cannot be located. You can contact your insurance provider to confirm whether your policy includes UM. If you do not have this coverage, the personal injury attorneys at Thompson Law recommend that you consider adding UM to your auto insurance policy today. 

Knowing how comparative negligence works is vital if you live in a state that uses it. In simple terms, comparative negligence implies both drivers can share fault for an accident, but one driver can be more at fault than the other. For example, you are texting while driving when another driver runs a stop sign and hits your car.

A jury finds that the driver who ran the stop sign is 80 percent at fault, but they believe you would have had a better chance of avoiding the accident if you were not texting at the time. They find you 20 percent at fault. You can only collect enough compensation to cover the other driver’s fault. In this case, you would get $8,000 if the jury thinks your case is worth $10,000.

Having the police respond to the accident scene is of paramount importance. Make sure that YOU call them and insist that they come and investigate the accident. When the police arrive, they will separate the drivers and witnesses from one another and take statements from everyone involved. Be cooperative, detailed, and firm in describing the accident. The investigating officer will usually determine fault based upon these statements, and it is essential that your version of the events is heard and believed. If you think that you may be injured, make that clear to the officer. If an ambulance or other medical professionals arrive on scene, get checked out. If not, make plans to visit an emergency room or doctor soon after you leave the scene. Before you do leave for this care, the officer will provide you with a report number and their contact information. Make sure this information is safely saved, as it will be very important in any auto accident injury claim you may have.  

Call an attorney. Your first instinct might be to call your insurance company, but it’s best to seek legal council first so you don’t accidentally admit guilt or take responsibility for the accident. In many cases your attorney will call the insurance company for you to prevent that from happening.

Absolutely not. It’s important to leave the investigation to the professionals. They know exactly how to work a case to determine all of the facts and details.

In insurance terms, “totaled” or a “total loss” means that the cost to repair your vehicle to its pre-accident condition is more than the vehicle is worth. Each insurance company has a different threshold for determining if a vehicle is totaled, but generally, if it’s close, you want the insurance company to “total” your car. Following the determination that your car is a total loss, the insurance company will provide you with their assessment of the value of your car. An experienced auto accident attorney should review this estimate to make sure that you are truly receiving fair market value for your loss.  You absolutely have the right to challenge their assessment, and a skilled attorney knows the best way to do so to maximize your recovery.  

Typically, yes. If a family member is seriously injured or killed in an accident, or if the injured party is a minor child, then it may be appropriate under the law for a parent, spouse, relative, or legal guardian to file a claim or lawsuit on behalf of the injured or deceased party.  These types of claims are complex, and usually depend on the type of relationship involved, as well as the individual facts and circumstances of the injury. Calling the experienced personal injury attorneys at Thompson Law is step one to explore filing a legal claim on behalf of your loved one. 

Even if you are partially to blame for a car accident, you may be able to recover some of your damages from the other party. Under Texas’s proportionate responsibility system (also known as comparative negligence), unless you as the claimant/plaintiff are determined more than 51% at fault, you may recover legal damages that are reduced by the percentage you are determined at fault. For example, if you are determined to be 30% at fault, you can recover 70% of your damages from the other responsible party (you can’t recover the other 30% because that was the amount of liability that was determined to lie with you). The personal injury attorneys at Thompson Law can help you navigate this proportionate responsibility system – so reach out online or call anytime for a free consultation.     

If you or a family member are injured in an automobile accident, you cannot afford NOT to hire the very best attorney available. Thompson Law works on a contingency fee basis. What this means is that you only pay legal fees IF we win for you and AFTER your case is settled. We understand that legal fees upfront are simply too much to deal with after a serious accident where you are dealing with property damage repairs, medical bills, missed work and lost wages. The fact that you owe $0 upfront is an added bonus when you hire great legal representation at Thompson Law.  

If you were injured as the result of someone else’s negligence, there is a good chance we can help you out. We will look at the facts of your accident, whether a car wreck, truck wreck, motorcycle accident, or on-the-job-injury and examine whatever reports or records are available. If we believe that you were injured and it was someone else’s fault, it is likely to be a case we can take. The more information and documentation you can give us about your accident and your injuries, the quicker we can evaluate your case and let you know. Give us a call or reach out online anytime! 

The best personal injury attorney has three major characteristics: Excellent customer service, cutting edge technology, and a willingness to take cases and win at trial. Ask your potential attorney about the client experience they offer, what kind of technology they use to make your life easier, and when was the last time they took a case to jury trial. Asking these types of questions will give you guidance on what kind of experience you can expect as a client and what kind of results you can expect at the end of your case.

Thompson Law has high ratings from clients for its emphasis on customer service, and its attorneys have achieved significant results on small, large, and complex cases alike. No matter if you have been involved in a minor car wreck or are dealing with catastrophic injuries from a rarer and more devastating event like a terrible workplace accident, dog bite, or an 18 wheeler wreck, Thompson Law can assist you.  

Yes! Thompson Law is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week to provide free consultations. If you have been injured in a truck wreck or car accident, hurt in a slip and fall incident, or otherwise injured from the negligence of another person or party, give us a call any time at 1-800-LION-LAW. We can speak to you over the phone, chat online through our website or social media outlets, or arrange an in-person meeting at your convenience. Our team is ready to help! 

Thompson Law is available 24/7 to provide free consultations and to sign up new clients. We can sign you up over the phone or we can send one of our experienced licensed investigators to meet you at the hospital or at your home if you prefer. Whether you live in Arlington, Ft. Worth, El Paso, McAllen, or even outside of the state of Texas, we are always here to assist you and provide the resources you need at a difficult time. We do the hard work for you so that you can focus on healing from your injuries.  

Being in a wreck, especially on the highway, can be a terrifying experience. Remember these 6 steps to make sure you are safe and to help preserve your legal case right from the start: 

  1. GET SAFE. Stop your vehicle/move it to a safe place if you are able. Stay close to the scene without obstructing traffic. Activate your emergency flashing lights to prevent other cars from striking you. 
  2. CALL 9-1-1. If you are seriously injured, be sure you request an ambulance when you call. A police report may become critical evidence in determining liability in your case. The police will respond to wrecks involving injuries but may not send a unit for cases involving property damage only.  
  3. TAKE PHOTOS. If you are able to safely do so, take photos of your vehicle, the other vehicle (including the license plate), and the surrounding scene of the accident. You will also want to photograph the other driver’s license and insurance card.  
  4. GATHER INFO. After making sure you and passengers are okay, exchange contact information and insurance information with the other driver.  
  5. FIND WITNESSES. If there are witnesses to the accident, take down their names and contact information. Their statements may help resolve any liability disputes.  
  6. CALL THOMPSON LAW. The experienced team of attorneys, investigators and paralegals are ready to assist you right away. You can even call us to meet you at the scene of an accident.  

Yes! Passengers in auto accidents are entitled to make claims for their damages and injuries too.  As a negligence-free passenger, who you make a claim against (one or both drivers and their insurance companies), and what coverages are available (third-party liability, first-party coverages, and/or personal injury protection), depends on the specific facts and circumstances of the car wreck.  Injured passengers should call the personal injury attorneys at Thompson Law to assist in navigating these complex issues so that they may receive the fair compensation they deserve.

Under Texas law, “bicycles are entitled to all rights of the road that apply to a motor vehicle, including access.” Unfortunately, drivers often don’t respect the rights of cyclists, and bike accidents are increasingly common, causing severe injuries to the cyclist.   

First, stay at the scene.  As soon as it is safe, assess the situation and call 9-1-1 to report the incident.  

Second, when help arrives, receive emergency medical attention.  Get “checked out” even if you think you are okay—the trauma and shock of the collision can cause your body to block out pain and injury, and internal injuries often produce non-specific symptoms. Follow the medical advice of the emergency response team. 

Third, with assistance from the police, exchange and obtain information, such as insurance information as well as the names, addresses, and phone numbers of all witnesses, passengers, and drivers.  DO NOT discuss the facts and circumstances of the bike accident with anyone other than the investigating officer.   

Fourth, document the scene.  Make notes on paper or using your cell phone about the time of day; weather conditions; road or traffic conditions; lighting; location of the vehicles and involved parties; and any relevant road signs, traffic control devices (lights, stop signs, yield signs) etc.  Also, make sure to get photographs of your bike, the driver’s car, and the scene.  

Last, a lawyer to discuss your rights.  The experienced personal injury attorneys at Thompson Law will help you investigate all applicable insurance coverages and fight to get the compensation to which you are entitled.   

An insurance company will not pay medical expenses or other damages as they come due; rather, after they have accepted liability, the insurance company will make a one-time, lump-sum final payment only at the end of your case.  Dealing with medical expenses, and obtaining the proper medical care, after an accident can be tricky. But it does not have to be! Call the personal injury attorneys at Thompson Law, who can explain how to deal with the “day-of” hospital bills, how to continue to receive the care you need, and ultimately how to recover an appropriate settlement that takes care of your bills from the incident as well as fair and just compensation for you.

Let’s be honest: this isn’t a legal show on TV and your case will not settle in the next hour – or even tomorrow.  The true answer is: it depends.  We find that most cases settle within 6-12 months from date of incident; but the timeline in your case could be shorter or longer depending on: the facts and circumstances of the accident; the length of time it takes you to complete medical treatment; and the character of the insurance company, or companies, involved in your case.  In the event that your case cannot settle pre-litigation and it becomes necessary to file a lawsuit, the litigation process alone can take 1 to 2 years due to the court system and legal process necessary to prepare for trial.  But because so much of the timeline depends on the facts and circumstances of your unique case, call Thompson Law today to discuss the personal injury claims process

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Thompson Law receives an attorney fee and you pay no legal fees as our client unless we pay you. Thompson Law has 350 years of combined experience in legal representation and has won over $1.8 billion dollars in cash settlements for our clients. We master the art of managing client cases with empathy, compassion, respect and, of course, prodigious skill. Contact us today for a free, risk-free consultation to discuss your accident and your options.

State law limits the time you have to file a claim after an auto accident. If you have been injured in an accident, call now to get the help you need.