Best Car Accident Lawyers in Grand Prairie

FAQs

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

  The Grand Prairie Police Department's contact number for non-emergency matters is (972) 237-8790.

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

  Residents can submit requests for accident reports at the Grand Prairie Police Department either in person or via telephone. The department is located at 1525 Arkansas Lane, and its contact number is (972) 237-8790. It is open from 8 A.M. to 5 P.M., from Monday to Friday. As an alternative, reports can be obtained online through the LexisNexis BuyCrash portal at https://policereports.lexisnexis.com/.

• How can a car accident victim in Grand Prairie prove his/her loss of income in a claim?

  Car accident victims in Grand Prairie can utilize medical records to prove that their injuries from the accident contributed to their inability to work, leading to lost income. They can also work alongside a lawyer in compiling and evaluating other types of financial documentation such as tax returns, W-2 forms, and pay stubs, as well as statements from their employer.

• Can a car owner also be held liable for entrusting their vehicle to the at-fault driver in an accident in Grand Prairie?

  Yes, a car owner in Grand Prairie can be held accountable for negligent entrustment if he/she permits an unfit person to operate his/her vehicle and that person causes an accident. This applies if the owner entrusted his/her car to the driver in question even if he/she is unfit to operate a vehicle due to intoxication, recklessness, or lack of training. It can also apply if the owner did not first confirm the driver's condition and capability before entrusting his/her vehicle.

• When is a ridesharing company deemed liable for a car accident caused by one of its drivers in Grand Prairie?

  A ridesharing company is only held accountable in an accident caused by its employee if the latter was technically "on duty" at the time of the accident. The company shoulders part of the damages if the offending driver was logged onto the ridesharing application but had not yet accepted a ride. In case the driver was already transporting a passenger or has accepted a ride at the time, the company is required to allocate $1 million in third-party liability coverage.

• How do local dram shop laws apply in car accident cases within Grand Prairie?

  Texas' dram shop laws dictate that certain third parties can be held partially liable in car accidents caused by drunk drivers in Grand Prairie. These include the owners of establishments that serve alcohol, as they must ensure that they are not endangering customers and the rest of the community by allowing excessive intoxication among their patrons. They can also include adults who host gatherings that supply alcohol to minors, who then go on to cause an accident.

• Can the driver of a parked vehicle be held liable in a parking lot accident in Grand Prairie?

  In parking lot accident cases in Grand Prairie, the driver of a parked car may be deemed liable if he/she failed to yield the right of way to moving vehicles while pulling out of a parking space. However, this does not apply if there are traffic signs within the area that explicitly give the right of way to parked vehicles. In this case, the driver who hit the parked vehicle is the one who is considered primarily at fault.

• 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.