Best Car Accident Lawyers in Brownsville

FAQs

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

  The non-emergency contact number of the Brownsville Police Department is 956-548-7000.

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

  You can obtain a copy of your accident report from the Brownsville Police Department's Records Division. For more information, contact 956-548-7113.

• Do you have to notify the Brownsville Police Department after a car accident?

  Yes. You should immediately report your car accident in Brownsville to local police by dialing 911, especially if there was injury, death, or property damage. According to Texas law, you must report the accident to Brownsville police or the police department where it happened, and the Texas Peace Officer must make a report to TxDOT within 10 days.

• What should and should not be done following a car accident in Brownsville?

  If you are involved in a car accident in Brownsville, call 911 to report the incident. Collect information from the other party and take photos of the damage. You should also seek medical care before contacting your insurance company or a car accident lawyer. However, you should not admit fault to law enforcement. Do not record a statement from an insurer or sign anything. Finally, do not post anything about your accident on social media.

• What are the most common locations for car accidents in Brownsville?

  Paredes Line Road, E. Harrison Street, Sam Pearl Boulevard, U.S. 77, TX-4, and US 28 are some of the most dangerous roads and highways in Brownsville. FM 511, FM 802, FM 803, I-2, and I-69E are also hazardous roadways. According to the NHTSA, Texas has some of the most deadly car accidents in the country. In 2021, the Brownsville Police Department reported more than 3,400 motor vehicle accidents.

• What should you do if you didn't notice your injuries until a long time after a car accident in Brownsville?

  You can still see a doctor if you were not evaluated by a medical professional immediately following a car crash in Brownsville. Don't keep waiting. Doctors can diagnose you, provide you with treatment, and document your medical history to back up your injury claim. Contact an experienced car accident lawyer after receiving medical attention to help you recover the compensation you deserve.

• What hospitals in Brownsville treat car accident victims?

  Valley Baptist Medical Center, Valley Regional Medical Center, and Valley Baptist Medical Center offer emergency care to Brownsville car accident victims. Doctors evaluate victims for accident injuries, treat them, and document their medical records to support their claims. In 2021, the Brownsville Police Department reported 1,918 people injured in 1,289 motor vehicle collisions.

• 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.