Best Car Accident Lawyers in Baytown

FAQs

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

  The Baytown Police Department's non-emergency telephone number is 281-422-8371.

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

  Residents may request and obtain car accident reports from the Baytown Police Department's Records Division. The department is open from 8 A.M. to 5 P.M., from Monday to Friday, and it is located at 3200 North Main Street. As an alternative, people who wish to obtain and pay for a report through a credit card can visit the Texas Department of Transportation's Crash Report Online System at https://cris.dot.state.tx.us/public/Purchase/app/home/welcome.

• Is it required to report a car accident in Baytown?

  In line with Texas law, a car crash or collision in Baytown must be reported if it resulted in any injuries or fatalities. Involved parties are also required to report an accident if the resulting property damage exceeds $1,000, or if a vehicle cannot be driven away due to serious damage. Reports are submitted to both the local police and the Texas Department of Transportation.

• Is auto insurance required for drivers in Baytown?

  Yes, Texas law dictates that all motorists in Baytown should possess sufficient car insurance to cover the initial costs of medical care and property damage in the wake of a possible accident. The minimum amounts required by state law are $30,000 per injured person, $60,000 per accident, and $25,000 for damaged property. These can be supported by uninsured or underinsured motorist coverage in cases against drivers who have insufficient or no auto insurance.

• Who is liable for a car accident caused by bad weather in Baytown?

  Drivers in Baytown who fail to observe speed limits and adjust their driving accordingly amidst bad weather conditions can be held liable if they cause an accident. The presence of inclement weather requires all motorists on the road to practice increased caution as part of their duty of care to other drivers. Government agencies may also be held liable if inadequate road maintenance and design contribute to poor driving conditions in the middle of heavy weather and influence an accident.

• What are the requirements involved in a wrongful death claim in a car accident case within Baytown?

  Under Texas law, plaintiffs of car accident cases within Baytown can file a wrongful death claim if they are a statutory beneficiary of the deceased and if their passing is caused by the at-fault party through negligence or wrongful actions. Statutory beneficiaries include spouses, children, and parents, as well as stepchildren and stepparents if adoption processes have been completed. Grandparents, siblings, divorced spouses, and biological parents whose legal parenting rights have been terminated are not eligible to file.

• Are car accidents prevalent within Baytown?

  Yes, car crashes and collisions are a relatively common occurrence within Baytown. In 2020 alone, the city experienced more than 1,800 total accidents, contributing to over 90,000 crashes throughout Harris County in the same year. 181 of these accidents featured unknown injuries, while 13 resulted in fatalities. In addition, there were 147 and 53 cases of suspected minor and major injuries, respectively.

• 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.