Best Car Accident Lawyers in Amarillo, TX

FAQs

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

  Dial 806-378-3038 for non-emergencies in Amarillo.

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

  Purchase a copy of the accident report through the TxDOT Crash Report Online Purchase System (CRIS). Contact the Amarillo Police Department at 806-378-3038 or TxDOT at 512-486-5780 for more information. You can also visit the police station located at 200 SE 3rd Ave.

• What hand injuries could result from a car crash in Amarillo?

  Hand injuries such as sprains, torn ligaments, road rash, and lacerations may result from a car accident in Amarillo. Chemicals from airbag deployment and fire in the car can cause burn injuries on hands. Additionally, reflex sympathetic dystrophy, nerve injuries, amputations, and compartment syndromes are some of the hand injuries that may cause permanent disability.

• Does posting on social media about being in a car accident in Amarillo affect a personal injury claim?

  Yes. Posting on social media about being in a car accident in Amarillo could negatively affect a person's injury claim. Accident-related posts could be used as evidence against the claimant by insurance adjusters and their defense lawyers. The evidence could allow insurers to reduce the compensation payout of the claimant to save money.

• What is considered a hit-and-run car accident in Amarillo?

  If a driver hits another car in Amarillo, causes damage, and does not stop to check if everyone is okay or exchange legally required information with another driver, it is considered a hit-and-run accident. To avoid being charged as "fleeing the accident scene," a driver must stop and help those with injuries, provide contact and insurance info, and wait for the police to arrive.

• How common are cases of alcohol-related car accidents in Amarillo?

  According to TxDOT's statistics, there were a total of 260 alcohol-related car accidents in Amarillo in 2021. Of these, nine individuals died in four crashes, and 25 individuals had serious injuries in 18 crashes. There were also 51 individuals who had minor injuries in 39 crashes. In the same year, there were a total of 5,269 crashes in Amarillo, which is equivalent to one crash per 1.66 hours.

• What are the dangerous roads in Amarillo?

  State Highway 136 is considered one of the most dangerous roads in Amarillo and has seen 23 deaths in five years. The highway is characterized by long stretches of empty landscape, short passing lanes, and low visibility, which pose dangers for drivers. Additionally, the I-40 and its intersections with streets such as S. Georgia, S. Western, and Coulter can be challenging for drivers.

• 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.