When to Lawyer Up After a Car Accident

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Have you been injured and are not sure when to lawyer up after a car accident? Not every automobile crash results in a lawsuit. If you were in a minor fender bender with no injuries and no vehicle damage, you might not need legal help. But if your auto accident results in injuries, lost wages, and mounting medical bills, you should consult with a personal injury lawyer right away.

At Thompson Law, our auto accident lawyers help car crash victims every day. Because collisions are prevalent in Texas, we have vast knowledge of personal injury lawsuits. While you focus on recovering from your injuries, an auto accident attorney will work hard to get you the compensation you deserve.

Common causes of car accidents in Texas are:

  • Speeding
  • Distracted driving
  • Drunk driving
  • Tailgating
  • Fatigued driving
  • Failure to yield
  • Road rage and aggressive driving

Every year, auto accident injuries are on the rise in Texas. If you or a family member were injured due to someone else’s negligent behavior, give us a call today. You can use a free consultation with our firm to fill you in on your legal rights and options.

When to Lawyer Up After a Car Accident

Do I Really Need a Car Accident Lawyer Right Away?

It is natural to hope that the insurance companies will handle your case without any outside involvement. Unfortunately, it is not uncommon for insurance companies to delay, minimize, or deny claims. After an accident, you have enough on your plate with pain, lost wages, and an endless stream of medical bills. If you are wondering when to lawyer up after a car accident, the right time is now. Letting an attorney handle your claim will free up time and energy so you can fully recover.

A car accident lawyer has years of experience dealing with big insurance companies. At Thompson Law, we know that getting fair compensation is not always fast or easy. We have seen first-hand how insurance companies work to lowball innocent people who deserve better.

And there are other reasons you should get a lawyer right away:

What Does a Car Accident Lawyer Do?

Every auto accident is unique, so your lawyer’s duties can vary. Typically, your lawyer will do the following:

  • Free evaluation: Thompson Law car accident attorneys offer free assessment without any obligation. At no cost to you, we will assess your case and guide your legal options.
  • Document your damages: There are many documents to gather when recording damages. These documents might include proof of medical expenses, vehicle repairs, lost income, and more. Your attorney will also help you calculate non-economic losses like pain and suffering and future losses.
  • Consult a network of experts: Auto accident attorneys have access to a broad network of experts, including highway safety experts, medical professionals, and mental health experts. These resources can provide valuable insight into road conditions, your injuries, and any effects on your mental health.
  • Investigate your crash: One of the most critical aspects of your case is the crash investigation. Your lawyer will gather all kinds of evidence, including accident reports, witness statements, photographs, and more. They may also speak directly with investigating officers and witnesses for further details.
  • Handle settlement negotiations: Understandably, insurance companies want to avoid paying out on large claims. Dealing with parties who seem positioned against you can be frustrating and stressful. But a car accident attorney will handle all communication and negotiations so you can focus on your recovery.

No Win No Fee for Personal Injury Case

Damages You Can Seek After a Car Accident

A car accident can result in serious damages. If you are the victim of another driver’s negligence, you have the right to seek compensation through a personal injury lawsuit. In addition to your doctor’s visits and emergency room fees, you may be entitled to compensation for pain and suffering, lost wages, and punitive damages.

Punitive damages are intended to punish the negligent driver and deter others from engaging in similar behavior. Your car accident attorney will help you understand your legal rights and your options for collecting various types of personal injury compensation.

When Do I Need to Get a Lawyer?

After a crash, it is common to feel overwhelmed. You might suffer from injuries, worry about going back to work, and feel anxious about medical expenses. Reaching out to an attorney can seem like one more task you would like to avoid.

If you wondering when to lawyer up after a car accident, the right time is now. Thompson Law makes things as easy as possible. You can call us any time for a free evaluation to discuss your case with an expert, and there is never a fee unless we win.

If you are in a Texas car crash, follow these steps:

  1. Check for injuries: First and foremost, ensure your safety and the safety of others involved. If anyone is injured, call 911 immediately for medical assistance.
  2. Move to safety: If possible and if it is safe to do so, move your vehicle to the side of the road to prevent further accidents. Turn on your hazard lights to alert other drivers.
  3. Call the police: Even if the accident seems minor, contacting the police can be crucial. They will document the scene and create an accident report, which can be vital for your claim.
  4. Exchange information: Collect the names, contact information, and insurance details of all parties involved in the accident. Additionally, gather information from any witnesses.
  5. Document the scene: Take photographs of the scene, including vehicle damage, any injuries, road conditions, and traffic signs. These images can serve as important evidence later.
  6. Do not admit fault: Be cautious with your words when speaking to the other party, witnesses, and even the police. Avoid admitting fault, as it can impact your claim.
  7. Seek medical attention: Even if you feel fine, it is essential to see a doctor as soon as possible. Some injuries may not be immediately apparent.
  8. Notify your insurance company: Report the accident to your insurance company as soon as possible to begin the claim process.
  9. Consult an attorney: Contact Thompson Law for a FREE CONSULTATION to discuss your case and understand your legal options. An attorney can guide you through the complex process and ensure you receive the compensation you deserve.
What-Should-I-Do-After-a-Car-Accident-Dos-and-Donts

 

An Auto Accident Attorney Can Help

If another driver’s negligence caused your injuries, you are not stuck with outrageous medical bills and expenses. Our auto accident attorneys will work toward a fair settlement that compensates for medical bills, pain and suffering, and lost wages. Call us today for a FREE CONSULTATION so we can discuss your legal rights and options.

Frequently Asked Questions Regarding Working With Car Accident Lawyers

How do I know when to lawyer up after a car accident?

Calling 911 and getting prompt medical care for your injuries is the first order of business after a car crash. Once you are safe and secure, you should contact an auto accident lawyer right away. Time is of the essence in terms of collecting evidence, speaking to witnesses, and speaking to the insurance claims adjuster assigned to your case. If you are wondering when to lawyer up after a car accident, the right time is now.

What happens if I was a passenger in the car crash?

If you were a passenger in a car accident, you have rights just like the driver does and need to understand when to lawyer up after a car accident. As a passenger, you could be entitled to compensation for your injuries, pain and suffering, and other losses. The first step is to seek medical attention for any injuries sustained. After addressing your immediate health concerns, you should contact a car accident attorney to discuss your legal options.

Your attorney will help you decide the best course of action, which may involve filing a claim against the at-fault driver’s insurance, regardless if it was the driver of the car you were in or another vehicle involved in the accident. In some cases, it may also be appropriate to file a claim with your own insurance company, particularly if the at-fault party is underinsured or uninsured.

Do I have to speak with the other driver’s insurance company?

No, you do not have to speak with the other driver’s insurance company, and in fact, it is generally recommended that you avoid doing so. Insurance adjusters may attempt to gather information that can be used to minimize your claim or argue that you were at fault.

Instead of speaking directly with them, you should know when to lawyer up after a car accident and refer all communication to your car accident attorney. Your attorney will handle all interactions with the insurance company to ensure your rights are protected and to negotiate for the full compensation you deserve. Remember, anything you say to an insurance adjuster can be used against you, so it’s best to let a professional manage these discussions.

How much is my car wreck case worth?

The value of your injury case depends on several factors unique to your situation. These factors include the severity of your injuries, the extent of damage to your vehicle, lost wages, medical expenses, and any long-term impact on your ability to work or enjoy daily life. Additionally, compensation may be influenced by the amount of available insurance coverage, the clarity of liability, and the willingness of the parties involved to settle.

Your car accident attorney can assess these elements to provide an estimate of your potential compensation. It’s important to gather all relevant documentation, such as medical receipts, repair bills, and evidence of lost income, to support your claim. Beyond economic damages, you may also be entitled to non-economic damages, which account for pain and suffering, emotional distress, and loss of consortium.

Each case is unique, and a skilled attorney will work diligently to maximize your recovery based on the specifics of your incident. For a more accurate evaluation, it’s essential to consult with a legal professional who can navigate the complexities of your case and advocate on your behalf.

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Thompson Law Guarantee

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.