Best Car Accident Lawyers in New Braunfels

FAQs

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

  The non-emergency contact for New Braunfels is 830-221-4000.

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

  Police accident reports are available online at New Braunfels' Open Records Center. You can also complete your request at the city police department at 3030 West San Antonio St.

• How often do car accidents occur in New Braunfels?

  In 2021, New Braunfels had 1,469 car accidents daily. These numbers include 19 fatal collisions, 124 severe injury cases, 412 minor injury crashes, and 353 possible injury crashes, resulting in 599 possibly injured people. Additionally, some of these car accidents resulted in 1,754 non-injury crashes and 53 unidentified severity crashes.

• What are the usual reasons for car accidents in New Braunfels?

  Several factors can contribute to car accidents in New Braunfels. These include distracted driving, such as texting or applying makeup. Drunk driving, speeding, road defects like potholes and sharp curves, fatigued driving, and even vehicle defects like faulty brakes or airbags. Despite these known causes, car accidents can still happen unexpectedly, and drivers must always exercise caution on the road.

• What is the process for filing a car accident claim in New Braunfels?

  To obtain compensation for a car accident in New Braunfels, you must navigate through the state's insurance system based on fault. This means that the party responsible for the accident is liable for any damages, but the victim must prove their fault. This differs from no-fault states, where each victim's insurer pays for damages.

• What are the recommended actions after a car accident in New Braunfels?

  If you are involved in a car accident in New Braunfels, there are recommended actions you must take after a crash. These include calling the police, exchanging important information, documenting the scene, getting witness statements, and seeking medical care. It's also advisable to seek representation from a legal expert immediately after the accident.

• What happens if you share liability for the car accident in New Braunfels?

  New Braunfels follows Texas' modified comparative negligence system when determining liability for car accidents where both parties were at fault. If you are responsible for over 50 percent of the accident, you will lose your right to recover compensation. But if it's under 50 percent, you will only be liable for damages in proportion to your degree of responsibility. This means the compensation you can receive from the other party will be reduced accordingly.

• 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.