Answers to Common Questions About Car Accidents

If you have been injured in a car accident that was caused by another driver’s negligence, you likely have many questions. You also, however, have your health and well-being to focus on, and you simply may not feel like you have the resources to move forward with a car accident case. The answers to these basic questions, along with your trusted personal injury lawyer’s guidance, will help you reach the best possible resolution for your claim.

Is Hiring a Lawyer Beneficial?

If another driver’s negligence has left you injured in a car accident, your priority should be getting the medical attention you need. Once your condition is stable, the next critical step is hiring an experienced Central Texas personal injury lawyer. A skilled attorney will guide you through the legal process from day one—starting with your initial consultation.

Wondering what to expect in an initial consultation? You’ll review the facts of your accident, discuss your injuries, and explore your legal options. You can also ask questions, understand the strength of your case, and get a feel for how the attorney will approach your claim. There’s no obligation, and most personal injury attorneys offer free consultations, so there’s nothing to lose.

While you focus on your recovery, your lawyer will focus on building a strong case by preserving crucial evidence, gathering eyewitness statements, handling negotiations with the insurance company, and preparing for trial if necessary. Having the right attorney from the start can make a significant difference in your outcome.

What If I Cannot Afford an Attorney?

Nearly all personal injury attorneys who represent victims of car accident cases are willing to do so on a contingency basis. You will not have to pay any money up front, and the lawyer will collect a predetermined percentage of whatever he or she collects for you in the case.

If someone else’s negligence has injured you, an experienced Texas personal injury lawyer will aggressively advocate for the compensation to which you are entitled and will not charge you until he or she has collected on your claim.

What If I Cannot Afford a Rental While My Car Is Being Repaired?

If another driver has left you injured, that driver’s insurance company – after investigating the accident and determining fault – should cover your rental car while you wait for your damaged car to be repaired. Again, your personal injury lawyer will advocate on your behalf if it becomes necessary.

How Can I Protect My Car Accident Claim?

The best way to protect your car accident claim is to gather evidence in your defense and not provide the insurance company with information they can use to minimize your claim.

Consider gathering the following kinds of evidence to confirm your account of the accident:

• Photos of the accident scene
• Testimony from witnesses and fact experts
• Medical records detailing your injuries
• Receipts and invoices detailing your bills and property damage

In addition, take the following steps to avoid giving the insurance company unnecessary information that they can potentially twist to use against you:

• Avoid posting or commenting on social media.
• Decline giving a recorded statement to the insurance adjusters
• Go over medical release forms with your lawyer before signing them

By taking these steps, you protect your claim and ensure you have the best chance of recovering on all of your damages.

What If the Insurance Company Quickly Makes Me an Offer?

Be very wary of any hasty settlement offers made by the insurance company. Insurance companies increase their profits by keeping their money as long as possible. If the insurance company is making you an offer up front, it is very likely that the amount they are offering will not cover all of your damages, and once you have accepted the offer, you have no further recourse.

If You Have Been Injured in a Car Accident, You Need an Experienced Personal Injury Attorney

While you can choose to represent yourself in personal injury matters, it is not a good idea. You need the guidance of an experienced personal injury attorney.