Best Car Accident Lawyers in Burleson

FAQs

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

  You can dial 817-426-9903 to report non-emergency situations in Burleson.

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

  You can obtain the police report for the accident in Burleson either in person, by fax or mail, and through the city website. Additional city records must be requested through the Public Information / Open Records Division at City Hall.

• What are the time constraints for filing a car accident claim in Burleson?

  According to Texas law, you have two years from the date of the accident to file a car accident claim in Burleson. This limitation also applies to those intending to file a claim for property damage caused by an accident. Furthermore, wrongful death claims have the same two-year limitation period that begins on the day of the victim's fatality. However, if the crash involved a government employee or entity, you only have six months to file a claim.

• What are the most prevalent causes of car collisions in Burleson?

  Tailgating, speeding, distracted and intoxicated driving, and brake failure are the most prevalent causes of car accidents in Burleson. Road rage, unsafe lane changes, and cutting off another driver are some factors that could also contribute to a car collision. According to the NHTSA, roughly 2.5 million rear-end incidents occur on roadways each year. Almost 30% of the accidents involve one car colliding with the rear of another.

• In Burleson, who usually pays for car accident claims?

  Car accident injury claim compensation in Burleson is paid by the at-fault parties and their liability insurance. If you were harmed in a car collision, you can file a third-party claim with the at-fault driver's insurance provider, or you can file a car accident lawsuit against the at-fault person. You may be able to submit a "first-party" claim with your own insurance carrier if you have specific types of coverage on your car insurance.

• What happens if the person at fault in a Burleson car accident does not have sufficient insurance?

  If the at-fault party in a Burleson car accident does not have enough insurance, you can file a claim with your own insurance carrier for coverage up to the level of your uninsured and underinsured motorist policy. Your options are limited if you do not have this type of insurance. It is best to contact a Burleson car accident lawyer to help you investigate and determine other possible sources of compensation based on your specific case.

• What should you do if an insurance company contacts you regarding your Burleson car accident?

  It is not advisable to immediately provide official statements or too many details about your case if an insurance company calls you. It is critical that you stick to the facts and keep your remarks concise. This can be used against you to lessen the amount of your settlement depending on what you say. Before speaking with an insurer, it is essential to consult with an experienced Burleson car accident attorney.

• 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.