Best Car Accident Lawyers in Bryan, TX

FAQs

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

  The non-emergency Bryan police department phone number is 979-361-3888.

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

  CrashDocs.org is used by the police department of Bryan to make vehicle accident reports accessible to its residents.

• Is it alright to hire just any lawyer for your car accident case in Bryan?

  No; victims of injury in car accidents in Bryan should only let attorneys who are experts and specialists in personal injury law and are board-certified in personal injury by the Texas State Bar handle their case. They are the most qualified to provide the best representation and recover the highest amount of compensation possible for their clients.

• What are the causes of most car accidents in Bryan?

  In Bryan, car accidents are most commonly caused by specific factors. These include impaired driving due to fatigue and the influence of alcohol or drugs, reckless driving, such as driving too fast, quickly changing lanes, and disobeying traffic laws; and distracted driving due to the use of phones to text, read emails, talk, and watch videos.

• What types of crashes commonly cause car accidents in Bryan?

  A particular number of types of car collisions most commonly cause accidents in Bryan. These include T-bone or side-impact crashes, where cars collide with the side of the other vehicle. They typically occur at intersections in which the first car runs a red light, turns improperly, and goes through the stop sign. Other common causes include rear-end and head-on collisions as well as collisions while merging.

• What are the things that one should prepare before meeting a car accident lawyer in Bryan?

  After a car accident in Bryan, one should prepare the following prior to consulting their lawyer:

  • The accident police report or the responding police officers’ names
  • A list of the medical providers the victim has seen for their injuries
  • Detailed documentation of injuries, which includes treatment plans, medical bills, and proof of inability to work
  • The witnesses who saw the accident take place
  • Pictures of property damage and injuries caused by the accident

• What is the statute of limitations for car accidents and its implications in Bryan?

  In Bryan, as in the rest of Texas, the primary statute of limitations governing car accidents is two years. The injured party should file a lawsuit for these cases within this time limit, otherwise, insurance companies will not honor claims for compensation and the case will not prosper in court. Insurance companies are particularly known to not be prompt in paying for damages such as medical bills.

• 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.