Best Car Accident Lawyers in Wichita Falls

FAQs

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

  The Wichita Falls Police's non-emergency line is 940-720-5000.

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

  The Records Clerk Section is at 610 Holliday Street, Wichita Falls, Texas 76301. Requests are obtainable online from LexisNexis.

• What value does hiring a car accident in Wichita Falls add to a personal injury case?

  A car accident lawyer in Wichita Falls can identify the parties liable for a crash and the insurance companies who must provide indemnity. Law firms are equipped with investigative tools and experienced crews who will gather and sift through the evidence to find those that are admissible and credible in court. An attorney also negotiates settlements with insurers and prevents low offers.

• What can car accident claimants in Wichita Falls recover in court?

  Car accident claimants in Wichita Falls can recover economic expenses like the medical treatments and unearned salaries incurred while the victim was recovering. The plaintiff can pray to the courts for non-economic damages due to emotional suffering and disfigurement. The heirs of the departed can also seek sums for wrongful deaths.

• How can you protect your rights following a car accident in Wichita Falls?

  After a car accident in Wichita Falls, you can protect your rights by refusing to speak with automobile insurance companies because the latter's aim is to drill holes into a claimant's statements to justify reduced payouts. Keep off social media because the insurance adjuster will be spying on those too and you want to look as hurt as possible. Also, keep every bill and receipt for evidentiary use.

• If you have two years in Wichita Falls to file a car accident suit, why is it still important to go to court immediately?

  It is still important to go to court immediately in Wichita Falls because even if Texas law gives you two years from an accident's date to sue, it is beneficial to get a head start while the evidence is fresh. Vital witness testimonies are best preserved in deposition form quickly given the flaws of human memory. Video surveillance footage may also be erased if the plaintiff dallies.

• How could you obtain the services of a car accident lawyer in Wichita Falls if are strapped for cash?

  If you are strapped for cash in Wichita Falls you should look for an attorney who accepts payment on a contingency basis. These lawyers won't charge a dime upfront for their professional services and will instead ask for a cut of any favorable settlements or court judgments. Nothing is owed if the case ends in defeat.

• 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.