Best Car Accident Lawyers in Carrollton

FAQs

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

  972-466-3333 is the non-emergency line for the local police station in Carrollton. *247 may also be used to reach first responders in Carrollton, Farmers Branch, Coppell, and Addison.

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

  To obtain a copy of your accident report, you may visit the Carrollton Police Department located at 2025 E. Jackson Road, Carrollton, TX 75006. It's recommended to contact the department at (972) 466-3000 beforehand.

• How many car accidents happen every day in Carrollton?

  According to Carrolton car accident statistics in 2021, there were 6.2 car accidents daily in Carrollton, totaling 2,249 car crashes throughout the year. The types of crashes include fatal collisions, serious injury collisions, minor injury collisions, possible injury collisions, non-injury collisions, and unknown severity collisions.

• Should you hire an attorney following a car accident in Carrollton?

  Yes. A Carrolton car accident lawyer can assist in handling the complexities of your accident, ensuring proper compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, emotional suffering, and more. They can also negotiate with insurance companies and manage legal paperwork required for receiving damages, including car repair and rental vehicle arrangements.

• What are the most dangerous intersections in Carrollton?

  According to Carrollton car accident attorneys' research, the following are the intersections where accidents are most likely to occur:

  • Marsh Lane and Trinity Mills Road
  • E Frankford Road and Old Denton Road
  • Sam Rayburn Tollway and Carrollton Parkway
  • E Frankford Road and N Josey Lane
  • N Josey Lane and E Rosemeade Parkway
  • N Josey Lane and E Hebron Parkway
  • Sam Rayburn Tollway and W Hebron Parkway

• What types of evidence can be used to prove fault in a car accident claim in Carrollton?

  Evidence of fault in Carrollton can include eyewitness testimony, damage to vehicles, and accident reconstruction. Eyewitness testimony can be especially compelling if the witness has no personal connection to either driver and can provide a detailed and unbiased account of what they saw. Damage to the vehicles involved can also provide valuable evidence of how the accident occurred, such as the angle and force of impact. Accident reconstruction can involve using physical evidence, such as skid marks and debris, to recreate the accident and determine how it happened.

• How can the "seatbelt defense" impact compensation in a personal injury claim in Carrollton?

  The "seatbelt defense" allows the other driver to avoid paying compensation to an injured person in a car accident in Carrollton. The injured person's failure to wear a seatbelt can be presented as evidence of their negligence, resulting in either a reduction or elimination of their compensation claim. This is because Texas follows a modified comparative negligence approach.

• 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.