Best Car Accident Lawyers in Lubbock

FAQs

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

  If you need a police officer to respond to a non-emergency situation, contact Police Dispatch at (806) 775-2865.

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

  Copies may be obtained by personally visiting Lubbock Police Department at 916 Texas Ave. Lubbock, TX 79401, or online at crimereports.ci.lubbock.tx.us.

• How does one file a claim in Lubbock after being injured in a car accident involving street racing?

  Contact a lawyer as soon as possible if you have been harmed as a result of street racing activities. Because these incidents are not just criminal acts but also civil violations, it is imperative to seek the counsel of a qualified lawyer to go through various legal options. Police officers throughout Lubbock have noticed an uptick in vehicle racing cases and are therefore finding ways to combat the issue.

• How often do car crashes occur in Lubbock?

  In 2021, there were 7,461 motor vehicle collisions, or approximately 20 collisions per day or about one per hour. There were 73 critical crashes that resulted in 87 people suffering severe injuries, and 42 catastrophic collisions that claimed the lives of 45 people. Every motor vehicle accident in Lubbock is recorded in the Texas Department of Transportation's Crash Records Information System (CRIS).

• What happens if the at-fault party in an accident has no insurance in Lubbock?

  Texas is an at-fault state, which implies that the individual who caused the accident must also pay for the damages. Under state laws, which cover the Lubbock metro, injured accident victims can hold culpable parties accountable for the harm they inflict. That means that if the other driver's insurance is insufficient to pay your losses, you can file a vehicle accident lawsuit to collect the difference.

• Could one sue an insurance company in Lubbock without the help of a car accident lawyer?

  Technically, you can, but this is never recommended. Individuals with no legal background or education will be unfamiliar with the court's rules and processes. The opposite side will capitalize on your inexperience. You might not correctly value your claim, you might not submit adequate evidence, or you might make a recorded remark that might be used against you. For you to secure fair financial compensation, seek the counsel of a qualified Lubbock attorney.

• What happens when one is at fault for a car accident in Lubbock?

  If you are at fault in an automobile accident, you must compensate the other driver and anybody else wounded or hurt in the collision. However, it is critical to understand that if you are only partially to blame for an accident, you may be entitled to recover recompense for your own injuries and losses. Seek the assistance of a qualified vehicle accident lawyer in Lubbock as soon as possible to understand your obligations and rights.

• 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.