Best Car Accident Lawyers in Denton

FAQs

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

  The non-emergency contact number for the local police station in Denton is  (940) 349-8181.

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

  You can get a copy of the police report for the accident in Denton by visiting the website of the City of Denton’s Office of the City Secretary at https://dentontx.mycusthelp.com/WEBAPP/_rs/(S(wslhgmcgryikrojvytr0tcgy))/SupportHome.aspx. Click on “Submit a Records Request,” then “Submit Request to the Police.” You will be prompted to create an account. Once done, you can now request an accident/crash report by providing your case number, date of the incident, officer name, and other important details.

• Do you need to sue a defendant after filing a car accident claim in Denton?

  An individual who files a car accident claim in Denton is not required to sue the at-fault driver. Some claimants do not push through with the lawsuit if the case cannot be settled. Claimants in Texas have the right to take a non-suit, which automatically ends a suit. In some cases, defendants file a counterclaim against the claimant, wherein the case continues against the claimant.

• Are drivers in Denton required to have insurance?

  All drivers in Denton must carry at least the minimum required amounts of insurance:

  • $25,000 for property damage liability
  • $30,000 for bodily injury liability per individual
  • $60,000 for bodily injury liability per accident

  This is so the driver can rely on insurance should they cause a car accident. If a police officer discovers that a driver doesn't have insurance, the driver can face serious penalties like paying fines or losing their license.

• Can you sue an uninsured driver who caused a car accident in Denton?

  Yes, you can sue an uninsured driver in Denton who caused a car accident. However, there is a strong likelihood that the uninsured driver will be “judgment proof,” or someone who has insufficient assets that the law will allow to be seized and sold to pay a judgment. You may have to file in small claims court instead to recover compensation.

• Can a passenger sue the drivers who are at fault in a car accident in Denton?

  Passengers normally bear no responsibility for causing car accidents. Because of this, passengers can sue the drivers who are at fault for the car accident in Denton. The court will assess who was to blame for the accident and what percentage of fault each of the involved drivers had. Passengers are not limited to seeking compensation from just one driver involved in an accident, and may even recover compensation from the driver of the car they were in.

• How long do you have to file for a car accident claim in Denton?

  If you were a victim of a car accident in Denton, you have two years from the date of the accident to file a claim. However, exceptions apply, like when the injured party is a minor or someone with disabilities. In Texas, the statute of limitations does not start until an injured person turns 18 years old. If the claimant is permanently disabled, their guardian or caretaker should file a claim on their behalf within the two-year limit.

• 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.