Best Car Accident Lawyers in Abilene

FAQs

• What is the non-emergency contact number for the local police station in Abilene, Texas?

  The non-emergency contact number for the Abilene Police Department is (325) 673-8331.

• Where can I get a copy of police reports for incidents related to my case in Abilene, Texas?

  You can obtain a copy of your Abilene crash report online at the following website: https://cris.dot.state.tx.us/public/Purchase/. This service is provided by the Texas Department of Transportation, and it allows you to purchase and download a copy of the report for a fee. To access the report, you will need to provide some basic information about the crash, such as your name, your vehicle identification number, or your TxDOT crash ID. Note that it can take up to two weeks from the crash for your incident to appear in the website's search results.

• Can a plaintiff sue government entities like the military for injuries in an Abilene car accident?

  Yes. Abilene residents looking to press legal action against government entities for injuries caused by a military vehicle should file suit under the government's Federal Tort Claims Act. Car accident victims should note that they cannot press claims against various members of the Air Force, Navy, or Army but against the U.S. government. There may be a higher incidence of car accidents involving military vehicles near or on the Dyess Air Force Base, the top employer in Abilene with over 19,200 workers.

• What types of evidence can an Abilene attorney obtain to prove the liability of various parties in an icy road-related car accident?

  An Abilene attorney can take videos and photos of the crash scene as well as recover surveillance footage from nearby buildings to establish the liability of negligent parties. Legal practitioners may also work with accident reconstructionists to show how various factors like road defects and winter weather conditions resulted in a collision. Other types of evidence include police reports, medical records, and repair statements.

• Can parents be liable for an Abilene car accident involving a teenage driver?

  Yes. An Abilene attorney must prove that a car accident involving a teenage driver happened because of parental negligence. The attorney can obtain evidence that shows the teenager's parents provided driving privileges to their child despite being aware of their previous unsafe driving behavior. Car accident victims can receive compensation up to $25,000 for property damage from the at-fault party's parents, based on chapter 41 of the Texas Family Code.

• What makes Interstate 20 dangerous for Abilene motorists?

  As per the officials of the Texas Department of Transportation, the wintry months often lead to a decline in road conditions, rendering the crossing of Interstate 20 a daunting task for Abilene motorists. Moreover, the high traffic density on this roadway further complicates matters by impeding the prompt response time of emergency vehicles and tow trucks in the event of accidents. One towing company even stated receiving "hundreds of service calls" during the winter months.

• Are there deadlines for filing wrongful death lawsuits against at-fault parties in an Abilene car accident?

  Yes. Texas law allows surviving family members of a deceased victim in a car accident two years to initiate legal proceedings against the liable party. If a wrongful death claim is not filed within three months of the victim's death, the personal estate administrator or representative may act on the deceased's behalf. These representatives are either named in a will or appointed by the court. However, if surviving family members decline legal action, the personal representative cannot file a claim.

• How do I choose a car accident lawyer?

  To select a car accident lawyer, consider the lawyer's experience, focus, and reputation. While nearly any attorney can negotiate with insurers for a settlement, not all attorneys have amassed experience litigating a claim in a court of law. Choose an attorney with a background that includes car accident claimants; it's helpful if the attorney is focused on personal injury law. Lastly, read reviews from previous clients to get a feel for the attorney's helpfulness and responsiveness to clients. The best lawyer for your case is one that you feel comfortable and confident working with.

• What steps should I take after a car accident?

  Immediately following a car accident, get out of traffic as soon as possible and dial 9-1-1. Exchange car insurance information with any other involved drivers and get a police report as soon as possible. Be truthful about what happened, even if you are at fault, but stick to reporting the facts of the accident without offering an opinion on who is to blame. If possible, take photos of your car, other cars at the scene, and the scene itself.

• (When) Do I need a lawyer after a car accident?

  Start working with a car accident lawyer as soon as possible following your car accident (some attorneys even make hospital visits). By reaching out for legal help early on, you avoid some of the pitfalls of trying to handle your claim on your own. Your attorney can also get the ball rolling on reimbursement for your medical bills and lost wages while awaiting the outcome of your claim.

• How long after a car accident can you claim an injury?

  The length of time you can file a claim for an injury following a car accident is governed by the statute of limitations in your state. Although it varies, most states set the statute of limitations for injured parties to seek compensatory damages at three years following the accident or three years after you discover your injuries. In cases where children are injured, the statute of limitations may be longer.

• What do I do after a car accident that I'm not responsible for?

  After an accident that's not your fault, seek immediate medical help if you are injured. Once it's safe to do so, obtain the other driver's contact and insurance information, any statements from witnesses, and photos of the scene. Obtain a police report and contact your insurer and the at-fault party's insurer. If you are injured, schedule a consultation with a car accident attorney to discuss your legal options.

• What happens if someone sues you after a car accident?

  If you have car insurance in force at the time of the accident, your insurance is contractually bound to represent you on any claims that arise, indemnifying you against loss up to the limits of your policy. You can help your insurance company by cooperating fully. If the plaintiff in any lawsuit obtains a judgment above your policy limits, then you can be held personally responsible for any damages awarded.

• What/how much can I expect from a car accident settlement?

  According to the Insurance Information Institute, the average bodily injury claim in 2018 was $15,785. The amount of any particular car accident settlement hinges primarily on the severity of the injuries sustained as a result and whether or not any partial or total permanent disability was caused by the accident. Claims that involve broken bones or nerve damage likely settle for more than claims where soft tissue injuries are present.

• How do I arrange a rental car after an accident?

  To arrange a rental car after an accident, first consider whether your insurance or the other party's insurance will be paying for the rental. If another driver is found to be at-fault for the accident, that driver's insurance may pay the costs. If you are responsible, your insurance may pay if your policy covers such expenses. Speak with your insurance adjuster to determine if you have benefits available.

• How long does it take for car insurance to go back down after an accident?

  Post-accident rate spikes can last anywhere from three to five years, depending on your insurer. However, if damages incurred during the accident are less than $2,000, your rate may not go up at all. Three years is typical for collision and property damage claims. Five years is not uncommon in accidents involving bodily injury claims, DUI or DWI, reckless driving, or serious violations at the time of the accident.

• How to settle a car accident claim without a lawyer?

  To negotiate a car accident settlement without a lawyer, you'll have to prove that the other party was to blame for your damages. Gather evidence at the scene to support your claim, including witness statements and photos. Seek medical treatment for your injuries immediately. Notify the other driver's insurer of your intent to file a claim. If you reside in a no-fault state, you will need to use your personal injury protection (PIP) benefits first before filing a claim against the other party for medical expenses and bodily injury. Be prepared with medical records, police reports, receipts for out-of-pocket accident-related costs, and proof of lost income due to the accident before beginning negotiations.