Best Car Accident Lawyers in San Angelo

FAQs

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

  Citizens of San Angelo are urged to call 325-657-4315 for non-emergencies that require police assistance.

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

  An online copy of the accident report may be requested from LexisNexis Police Reports at http://sanangelotx.policereports.us/. Requests by email, fax, or phone are not accommodated.

• What happens if someone else drives your car and is involved in a San Angelo car accident?

  Your insurance provider will mostly cover the damages, as the insurance policy is for the car and not the driver. If, on the other hand, the person driving your vehicle does not have your consent to do so, as in a theft, your insurance may not cover the driver. If the person driving your car is at fault for the accident in San Angelo, like in cases of DUI, you may be found guilty of negligent entrustment and held personally responsible for the collision.

• How is culpability in a car accident determined in a car accident in San Angelo?

  Car accident lawyers in San Angelo may be able to obtain surveillance footage, pictures, papers, and other pieces of evidence to support your case in proving the fault of another driver. They can also interview witnesses and expert witnesses to provide information about the accident and back up your claim. Because Texas is a fault-based state, victims of collisions must file a claim with the at-fault driver's insurance provider to get compensation.

• How long does it take an insurance company to resolve a car accident claim in San Angelo?

  In San Angelo, the insurance procedure may take one to three months. Expect to receive your settlement cheque within a month of submitting your claim, assuming no issues arise. However, you should expect it to take longer if your case contains disputes about who is at fault, severe injuries, or injuries that require time to heal. Although uncommon, you might need to go to trial if the provider handling your claim contests responsibility or declines to make a fair settlement offer.

• Can one sue the car manufacturer if the airbags fail to deploy during a car accident in San Angelo?

  Yes. Several enterprises in the supply chain may be liable for damages when issues like faulty wiring, defective impact sensors, improper installation, and design flaws prevent airbags from deploying following a car accident in San Angelo. Liability can also be linked to a manufacturer's failure to test a product, improper assembly, or flagrant disregard for test results. The maker of the vehicle, as well as the airbag's designer or manufacturer, may fall under this category.

• What are some reasons for San Angelo car accidents caused by bad weather?

  Common examples include driving at an unsafe speed during inclement weather conditions, failure to leave enough distance between cars, worn or bald tires, non-usage of headlights during weather conditions that cause poor visibility, such as heavy rains or fog, and turning too fast on slippery roads. Evidence such as police reports, weather reports, and supplemental witness testimonies can help build a strong car accident case in San Angelo.

• 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.