Best Car Accident Lawyers in McAllen

FAQs

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

  For non-emergencies, call the McAllen Police Department at (956) 681-2000.

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

  You can purchase reports on TxDOT's Crash Report Online Purchase System (C.R.I.S) website. You can also request through the mail by filling out the Accident Report Request Form available on the police department website and sending it to:

  McAllen Police Department - Crime Records Office PO Box 220 McAllen, TX 78505-0220

  You will receive within 10 days a response in writing along with an invoice that indicates the charges payable.

• Where do most car accidents happen in McAllen?

  These roads in McAllen are reportedly where 40% of accidents happen: 10th Street, Ware Street, Nolana Avenue, Business 83, I-2, and 23rd Street. Business 83 goes through downtown McAllen, where accidents commonly happen near commercial areas. I-2 is a significant highway for travel south of Texas and between the US and Mexico, and many drivers get careless in using ramps to exit the interstate.

• Do car accident cases in McAllen adopt the “modified comparative fault” law?

  Yes, McAllen car accident cases follow the state's modified comparative fault system, which means an injured driver can recover compensation even if they were partially at fault. For example, if an injured driver has been found to be 20% at fault in an accident, they would only be able to recover 80% of the damage awards. Most importantly, if an accident victim is 51% or more at fault, they can no longer obtain compensation.

• Would hiring a lawyer help in resolving car accident cases in McAllen?

  Yes, consulting with a lawyer can help with car accident cases in McAllen. Studies conducted by the Insurance Research Council (IRC) reported that victims represented by lawyers in injury-causing car accidents were able to recover better insurance payouts. An IRC consumer survey found that lawyer-represented victims received 40% more in compensation. A subsequent study by the IRC reported that victims who have lawyers recovered 350% more on average than those who do not.

• What types of car accidents can commonly happen in McAllen?

  Side impacts are common accidents in McAllen, especially at intersections and parking lots. Rear-end collisions generally account for one-fourth of crash cases, with distracted driving a factor most of the time. Vehicle rollovers happen in McAllen as a result of the interplay between driver behavior, road conditions, and traffic factors. NHTSA data shows that most rollovers are single-vehicle crashes caused by animal collisions, fallen debris, and running off the road.

• What are the statistics on McAllen vehicle crashes?

  According to TxDOT's CRIS report, there were 2,386 vehicle crashes (over 6.5 accidents per day) in McAllen in 2021. Of these crashes, eight resulted in the deaths of 10 persons and 34 led to serious injuries of 42 persons. There were 409 crashes that led to 578 persons incurring minor injuries.

• 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.