Rockwall Car Accident Lawyer

Seriously Injured in a Car Accident in Rockwall, TX?

Our Rockwall car accident lawyers understand that the aftermath of a motor vehicle crash can be an incredibly challenging and overwhelming period for anyone involved. Victims often find themselves facing a multitude of issues such as mounting medical bills, lost wages due to recovery times, significant vehicular property damage, not to mention the immense financial stresses these problems collectively cause. Moreover, navigating interactions with insurance companies can be complicated and frustrating, leaving many injury victims unsure of the best course of action.

Our Rockwall car accident lawyers understand the complexities of these situations. We are dedicated to providing you with the guidance and support you need during this trying time. Our law firm offers FREE, NO OBLIGATION CONSULTATIONS. We are here to help you understand your legal options and answer any questions you may have, making the path to resolution clear and manageable. Contact us today.

Car Accident Lawyer in Rockwall, TX

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Why Should You Choose Our Rockwall Car Accident Lawyers?

Choosing the right legal representation after a car accident in Rockwall is crucial for ensuring that your rights are protected and you receive the compensation you deserve. Here are several reasons why our team stands out from the rest:

  • No Upfront Costs: We operate on a contingency fee basis, meaning you won’t pay any attorney’s fees unless we obtain compensation for your accident injuries.
  • Personalized Attention: We believe every case is unique. Our team provides personalized attention to each client, ensuring that your specific needs and concerns are addressed.
  • Experienced Professionals: Our lawyers have years of experience handling car accident cases specifically in Rockwall, giving them an in-depth understanding of local laws and regulations.
  • Proven Track Record: Our firm has a proven track record of securing favorable settlements and verdicts for our clients, demonstrating our commitment and effectiveness in fighting for your rights.
  • Client-Focused Approach: Our priority is your well-being and satisfaction. We strive to make the legal process as smooth and stress-free as possible for our clients.

When you choose our Rockwall car accident lawyers, you’re not just getting a legal representative; you’re gaining an ally dedicated to securing the best possible outcome for you. Contact us today to see how we can assist you in navigating the challenges of your car accident claim.

What Can Our Rockwall Car Accident Lawyers Do for You?

You do not have to navigate the aftermath of a car accident alone. Our Rockwall car accident lawyers are committed to standing by your side every step of the way. Here’s what we can do for you:

  • Comprehensive Case Evaluation: We start with a thorough assessment of your case to determine the best legal strategy tailored to your specific situation.
  • Dealing with Insurance Companies: Our team will handle all communications and negotiations with insurance companies, ensuring that you’re not taken advantage of and that your rights are protected.
  • Gathering Evidence: We meticulously gather and analyze all necessary evidence to strengthen your case, including accident reports, witness or video evidence, and medical records.
  • Legal Representation: From pre-lawsuit negotiation to trial, we provide unwavering legal representation and will tirelessly fight for every penny of compensation you deserve.
  • Continual Support and Guidance: Throughout the entire process, we offer continual support and guidance, keeping you informed and involved in every decision.

Our firm understands the physical, emotional, and financial toll a car accident can take on you and your family. Reach out to us for a free consultation and take the first step towards recovery. With our Rockwall car accident lawyers by your side, you are never alone.

Rockwall Auto Accident Statistics

The Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT) compiles and consolidates data on every reported vehicle collision. In 2022, Rockwall witnessed a total of 1,018 crashes. These incidents are categorized by their severity, highlighting the different types of accidents that occurred.

  • Fatality crashes:  2 fatality accidents resulting in the deaths of 2 individuals
  • Serious injury crashes:  16 serious injury crashes resulting in serious injuries to 20 individuals
  • Minor injury crashes:  76 minor injury crashes resulting in minor injuries to 101 individuals
  • Possible injury crashes:  120 possible injury crashes resulting in possible injuries to 166 individuals
  • No injury crashes:  799 crashes in which 2,615 individuals were not injured
  • Unknown severity crashes:  5 unknown severity crashes resulting in unknown injuries to 23 individuals

Rockwall County Car Accidents Statistics

In all of Rockwall County in 2022 there were 1,814 total crashes that included:

  • Fatality crashes:  6 fatal crashes which led to the deaths of 6 individuals
  • Serious injury crashes:  44 serious crashes that resulted in 55 people sustaining serious injuries
  • Minor injury crashes:  165 minor crashes that led to 208 individuals receiving minor injuries
  • Possible injury crashes:  223 possible injury crashes which resulted in 325 possibly injured individuals
  • No injury crashes:  1,347 non-injury crashes in which 4,356 vehicle occupants were uninjured
  • Unknown severity crashes:  29 unknown severity crashes which resulted in unknown injuries to 93 people

Sources: Crashes and Injuries by Cities and TownsCrashes and Injuries by County.

The Most Common Causes of Auto Crashes in Rockwall, TX

Understanding the most common causes of auto crashes in Rockwall, TX, can help drivers be more aware and hopefully reduce the number of accidents in the future. Below are the top six reasons for vehicle collisions in our community, accounting for 85.9% of all motor vehicle collisions in 2022:

  1. Driver Inattention: Leading to 234 wrecks, a momentary lapse in focus can have devastating consequences.
  2. Speeding or Unsafe Speed: This was a contributing factor in 197 wrecks, underscoring the importance of adhering to posted speed limits.
  3. Tailgating: Following too closely resulted in 154 wrecks, highlighting the need for safe following distances.
  4. Failure to Yield Right of Way Turning Left: This caused 137 wrecks, indicating the crucial nature of yielding to oncoming traffic.
  5. Running or Ignoring a Stop Sign or Red Light: This led to 123 wrecks, emphasizing the importance of obeying traffic signals.
  6. Changed Lane When Unsafe: Resulting in 105 wrecks, this points to the need for vigilance and ensuring it’s safe before changing lanes.

If you have been injured in an accident due to another driver’s negligence, call our Rockwall car accident lawyer for a FREE CASE REVIEW.

Steps You Should Take After a Motor Vehicle Collision

The steps you take immediately after an accident can significantly impact your ability to pursue any claims for personal injury damages. Here are essential steps to follow to ensure your safety and protect your legal rights:

  1. Ensure Your Safety: First, assess your immediate safety and that of any passengers. If possible, move to a safe location away from traffic.
  2. Call 911: Reporting the accident to the police is crucial. They will document the scene and file a Rockwall crash report, which can be vital for your insurance claim and any legal actions.
  3. Exchange Information: Collect names, contact information, insurance details, and license plate numbers from all parties involved.
  4. Document the Scene: Take photos of the accident scene, including all vehicles involved, any visible damages, and road conditions.
  5. Seek Medical Attention: Even if you feel fine, some injuries might not be immediately apparent. See a healthcare provider as soon as possible.
  6. Notify Your Insurance Company: Inform your insurance company about the accident, but be mindful of the details you share before consulting with a lawyer.
  7. Consult Our Rockwall Car Accident Lawyers: Before making any statements or accepting settlements, it’s advisable to consult with a legal professional who can guide you through the process and ensure your rights are protected.

For more detailed guidance, read our blog on what to do after a car wreck. Also, learn your obligations under Texas law as outlined in the Texas Transportation Code Chapter 550. For more personalized assistance, reach out to us for a FREE CONSULTATION.

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

See the infographic from our Rockwall 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

 

At Thompson Law

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

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Common Auto Accident Injuries

Auto accident injuries can have profound effects on the victims’ lives, leading to significant medical bills, income loss, and long-term rehabilitation needs. Here is a comprehensive list of common auto accident injuries:

  • Soft Tissue Injuries: Damage to muscles, ligaments, or tendons throughout the body, which can include sprains, contusions, or tendonitis, resulting from the traumatic forces of a car crash.
  • Lacerations and Cuts: Caused by flying debris, glass, or metal in an accident, varying significantly in severity.
  • Whiplash: A neck injury due to forceful, rapid back-and-forth movement of the neck, commonly occurring in rear-end car accidents.
  • Joint Injuries: These injuries can range from simple sprains and strains to more severe injuries such as dislocations or tears in the ligaments or cartilage.
  • Broken Bones: Bones can break or fracture in many ways during car accidents, from simple breaks that may heal with a cast to more severe fractures that require surgical intervention.
  • Traumatic Brain Injuries (TBI): Brain dysfunction caused by an outside force, usually a violent blow to the head, potentially leading to long-term complications or death.
  • Spinal Cord Injuries and Paralysis: Damage to any part of the spinal cord or nerves at the end of the spinal canal, potentially leading to lasting strength, sensation, and function below the site of the injury.
  • Burn Injuries: Can occur from fires, explosions, or contact with hot surfaces or chemicals during an accident, leading to varying degrees of burns requiring medical treatment.
  • Amputations: The traumatic loss of a limb or body part during an accident or surgical removal following severe injury where reattachment is not an option.
  • Internal Injuries: Damage to internal organs or internal bleeding caused by trauma from the accident, often requiring emergency medical treatment.

If you have sustained any of these injuries in an auto accident, it’s crucial to seek immediate medical attention and consult with legal professionals to understand your rights and potential compensation.

What Compensation Can I Receive for My Injuries and Losses?

Victims of auto accidents may be entitled to various types of compensation for their injuries and losses. Understanding the differences among these compensations is essential in assessing the full extent of damages you may claim. Here is a breakdown of the types of personal injury damages:

Special Damages (Economic Damages)

Special damages compensate for the measurable monetary losses incurred due to the accident. These include:

  • Medical Expenses: Costs for emergency treatment, hospital stays, surgeries, medication, physical therapy, and any future medical care related to the injuries.
  • Lost Wages: Compensation for the income lost while recovering from the accident.
  • Loss of Earning Capacity: If the injury affects your ability to work in the future, compensation for the difference in your earning potential.
  • Property Damage: Costs to repair or replace your vehicle and any other personal property damaged in the accident.

General Damages (Non-Economic Damages)

General damages compensate for the non-monetary aspects of your losses, which are not easily quantifiable. These include:

  • Pain and Suffering: Compensation for the physical pain and emotional distress experienced due to the injuries.
  • Loss of Enjoyment of Life: Compensation for the inability to enjoy hobbies and other life pleasures as you did before the accident.
  • Emotional Distress: Compensation for psychological effects such as stress, anxiety, and depression.
  • Loss of Consortium: Compensation for the impact of the injuries on the victim’s relationship with their spouse.

Punitive Damages

Punitive damages are not directly related to compensating the victim for their losses. Instead, these are awarded to punish the defendant for particularly reckless or egregious behavior and to deter similar conduct in the future. Examples include:

  • Driving Under the Influence: If the at-fault driver was intoxicated.
  • Severe Negligence: Extremely reckless driving or intentional misconduct leading to the accident.

Understanding these categories and the types of compensation within them is crucial for accurately calculating the total damages you may pursue. It’s advisable to consult with a qualified Rockwall car accident lawyer to ensure all your losses are adequately assessed and compensated.

How Long Do I Have to File a Lawsuit After a Car Accident?

The time frame within which you must file a lawsuit after a car accident, known as the statute of limitations, varies by state. For example, the statute of limitations for personal injury claims in Texas is generally two years from the date of the accident. This means that you have two years to initiate legal proceedings against the party or parties responsible for the accident and your resulting injuries. Failing to file within this period typically results in losing your right to seek compensation through the courts.

There may be exceptions to this rule depending on the specifics of your case, such as claims against a government entity which have shortened deadlines. Consulting with our Rockwall car accident lawyers immediately after your accident can help ensure you meet all necessary legal deadlines and preserve your right to compensation.

Should I Hire A Rockwall Car Accident Lawyer If I Wasn’t Hurt?

Even if you believe you weren’t hurt in your car accident, it’s a good idea to consult our Rockwall car accident lawyers. Injuries from auto accidents often don’t become apparent until days later when inflammation sets in. By speaking with our attorneys, you ensure that you understand your rights and the potential for any future claims should injuries manifest after the accident.

Furthermore, our Rockwall car accident lawyers can assist in assessing any property damage or other losses you incurred, ensuring your interests are fully protected. Legal advice can be invaluable in navigating the complexities of insurance claims and potential litigation, providing peace of mind during an unfamiliar experience.

How Does the Car Accident Settlement Process Work?

The personal injury claims process can be a complex and nuanced negotiation, aimed at resolving your claims for injuries and losses without the need for a trial. Understanding the key stages and timeline of the injury claims process is crucial for any victim of a car accident. Here’s a brief overview:

  1. Initial Consultation: Your attorney will review the details of your case, including the accident report, medical records, and any other relevant information, to build a strong foundation for your claim.
  2. Demand Letter: A comprehensive document outlining your injuries, the extent of your damages, and the compensation you are seeking, is sent to the insurance company of the at-fault party.
  3. Negotiation: Both parties engage in negotiations, often involving several rounds of offers and counteroffers, with the goal of reaching an acceptable settlement.
  4. Mediation: If negotiations stall, a neutral third party may be brought in to mediate between the two sides, helping to facilitate a resolution.
  5. Agreement: Once both parties agree on a settlement amount, a formal agreement is signed, and the insurance company processes the payment.
  6. Release: In signing the settlement agreement, you will also sign a release of all claims form, which waives your right to pursue any further legal action related to the accident.

Navigating the settlement process effectively requires a thorough understanding of the law and strong negotiation skills. This is why many individuals choose to enlist the help of a skilled Rockwall car accident lawyer who can advocate on their behalf to ensure fair compensation is received.

How Long Will My Car Accident Case Take to Settle?

The time it takes for a car accident case to settle can vary considerably, depending on the complexity of the case, the extent of the injuries and damages incurred, and the willingness of the parties to come to an agreement. Some cases may settle within months, while others could take several years to reach a resolution.

Factors that can affect the duration include the severity of injuries, the clarity of fault in the accident, and the amount of compensation being negotiated. Furthermore, if the case proceeds to trial, the timeline can extend due to court scheduling and legal procedures.

It’s important to consult with our Rockwall car accident lawyers who can provide a more tailored timeline based on the specifics of your case and work diligently to expedite the settlement process as much as possible.

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Our Rockwall Car Accident Lawyers Charge Nothing Upfront and No Fee Unless We Win

Let Our Rockwall Car Accident Lawyers Help!

Our Rockwall car accident lawyers charge nothing upfront for our services, and you will only pay a fee if we secure a win for you. It’s our way of ensuring that everyone has access to high-quality legal representation without the worry of upfront legal costs.

Our objective is to assist in your rapid recovery following an accident. We are available to provide support around the clock, every single day of the year. From the moment of your injury to the moment you secure a settlement, we are committed to representing your interests.

No Win No Fee - Rockwall car accident lawyers

If you need legal representation for an accident today, give us a call today and let us fight the insurance companies for you. If you are not in need today, save our contact information in your phone so you do not have to search “car accident lawyer rockwall tx” when you most need an attorney. Whether you live here or were just visiting Rockwall 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 an injury claim on behalf of your loved one

In Texas, 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, or can explain negligence laws by state if your accident occurred outside of Texas.     

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, Fort Worth, El Paso, San Antonio, 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 (e.g., third-party and/or first-party coverages, personal injury protection, MedPay), 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 charges NO FEES unless we obtain a settlement for your case. We have put over $1.9 billion in cash settlements into our clients’ pockets.

Contact us today for a free, no obligation consultation to discuss your accident, get answers to your questions, and understand your legal options. State law limits the time you have to file a claim after an injury accident, so call today.