Best Car Accident Lawyers in Garland

FAQs

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

  For non-emergency matters, you may dial 972-485-4840 to call the Garland Police Department.

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

  You may obtain a copy of a crash report in Garland through the Crash Report Online Purchase System of the Texas Department of Transportation: https://www.txdot.gov/data-maps/crash-reports-records.html.

• How common are car accidents in Garland?

  Car accidents are a common occurrence in Garland, with about more than one collision every three hours. In 2021, the Texas Department of Transportation recorded a total of 2,975 automobile crashes in the city, 15 of which are fatal injury crashes, resulting in the death of 16 individuals. Meanwhile, 114 serious injury crashes and 739 minor injury crashes were recorded in Garland in the same year.

• What are the usual causes of car accidents in Garland?

  There are several leading causes of car accidents in Garland, most of which are preventable if drivers were a little more careful and attentive. Five of the usual causes of car accidents in the city are speeding, which accounts for over 26 percent of all motor vehicle fatalities according to the National Highway Transportation Safety Administration (NHTSA), distracted driving, failure to yield the right-of-way, poor visibility, and driving under the influence.

• How much do car accident lawyers in Garland charge?

  Car accident lawyers in Garland do not have a fixed rate for providing injury victims legal representation. Many lawyers in the city operate on a contingency basis, meaning they take a percentage of whatever they can recover for their client’s case as their fee. Under this system, if the attorney fails to secure compensation for their client, they won’t charge anything.

• What can you get compensated for after getting hurt in a Garland car accident?

  If you were hurt in a car accident in Garland, you might be entitled to recover losses resulting from the crash. These may include costs for medical care, such as hospitalization, surgery, prescription medication, physical therapy, and home modifications. You can also get compensated for property damage and lost wages if your injuries prevent you from returning to work.

• How much time do you have to file a car accident claim in Garland?

  The statute of limitations in Texas, which governs the amount of time you have to file an injury claim in Garland, states that you have two years from the date of the accident to file a lawsuit in most cases. This deadline may be shortened or extended depending on the specifics of your case. If you fail to file your claim within the two-year time period, your opportunity to recover damages may be forfeited.

• 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.