Best Car Accident Lawyers in Laredo, TX

FAQs

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

  311 is the non-emergency contact number for Laredo.

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

  You can get accident reports from the records department of Laredo police headquarters, located at 4712 Maher Ave. You can also obtain a digital copy through https://ecrash.lexisnexis.com.

• What are the most common causes of car accidents in Laredo?

  Speeding is the leading cause of auto accidents in Laredo, accounting for over 2,800 cases, according to the police department's report in 2021. Traffic signal violations came in second, with nearly 900 car accidents caused by reckless, distracted, or careless drivers. The third most common cause of car collisions in Laredo involves drivers reversing at an unsafe speed, with more than 850 crashes involving this behavior. Changing lanes without signaling and driving in a single lane are also cited.

• Where do car accidents usually occur in Laredo?

  Mines Road is where most car wrecks in Laredo take place. Its difficult intersections containing curves that can reduce visibility, the dangerous access ramps in the 69W underpass, and the confusion of adjusting speed when it meets Interstate 35 are some of the reasons why Mines Road is a car accident-prone area. Texas Highway 359 is also a dangerous place where drivers are having difficulty adjusting their speed when entering residential and commercial areas around the highway.

• What types of compensation can Laredo car wreck victims receive?

  Car accident victims in Laredo can receive compensation for economic, punitive, and non-economic damages. Texas, however, used the modified comparative negligence system to recover these damages, which stipulates that only plaintiffs who are less than 51% liable are eligible for compensation and that the total amount they can receive will be reduced depending on their percentage of fault.

• What alternatives to uninsured or underinsured coverage are available to Laredo car accident victims seeking compensation?

  A personal injury protection (PIP) policy is available to victims of car collisions in Laredo without uninsured motorist coverage. PIP covers the victim's medical expenses, 80% of lost wages, rehabilitation costs, and funeral bills. Other coverage is Med Pay, with limits below $25,000 to pay for the medical bills of all occupants of the vehicle who were involved in the accident.

• Can illegal immigrants involved in car accidents in Laredo sue for damages?

  Yes, Laredo car accident victims can pursue compensation regardless of their citizenship status. Immigration and Customs Enforcement is not automatically notified when illegal immigrants file a lawsuit, and they are entitled to compensation for their economic and non-economic damages. Texas law also includes the Workers' Compensation Act, which provides medical benefits to both documented and undocumented workers.

• 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.