Best Car Accident Lawyers in Austin

FAQs

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

  Residents in the City of Austin can call 311 or 512-974-200 for police non-emergency calls.

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

  A case number is necessary to acquire a copy of an accident report in person. Before visiting APD, citizens can call APD Report Sales at (512) 974-5499 to determine whether the report is ready. Send a self-addressed, stamped envelope with $6 (cash, check, or money order) to the Austin Police Department Report Sales P.O. Box 689001, Austin, TX 78768, in order to receive a copy of an accident report by mail.

• What is the statute of limitations in Austin?

  The statute of limitations in Austin and all of Texas is two years from the date of the accident. This is the timeframe during which you must submit your accident-related injury lawsuit. If you neglect to file your lawsuit within that time frame, you may forfeit your right to compensation. There are, however, a few exceptions to this rule, so the deadline may vary based on the specifics of your situation.

• Under Austin laws, what does “modified comparative negligence” in car accidents mean?

  The rule means that if you are proven to be partially at fault for the accident, your compensation could be reduced by that amount. For example, if your accident has been valued at $100,000 but you are found to be 30% at fault, you will only be eligible to get $70,000 in accordance with Austin regulations. If it has been proven that you are more than 50% at blame, you will not be eligible for any compensation.

• Where do most car accidents happen in Austin?

  Road intersections are the primary factor of collisions in Austin. Although speed and general recklessness are contributing components to Austin's current vehicle crash problem as it stands, location plays a more significant role. A total of 5,247 car crashes happened in intersections out of 12,791 total crashes in the area within a year.

• What can one collect as compensation after a car accident in Austin?

  You may be entitled to compensation for future, current, and past medical expenditures; lost wages or earning capacity; rehabilitation costs; and pain and suffering. While there is no pain and suffering calculator in Austin that every adjuster or jury employs to determine the worth of your claim, the per diem and multiplier approaches are commonly utilized to calculate a reasonable value for pain and suffering at trial.

• Why does one need an attorney for a car accident in Austin?

  If you were not at fault for an automobile accident, an Austin lawyer might be able to assist you in collecting greater compensation. This is especially true if you sustained a major injury as a result of the accident, resulting in medical expenses, potential lost wages, and mental and emotional distress. Even if your injuries were minimal but your car was totaled, an attorney can also assist you in filing a claim with the insurance company.

• 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.