Best Car Accident Lawyers in Rockwall

FAQs

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

  The Rockwall Police Department is reachable at (972) 771-7717 or (972) 771-7721 for non-emergencies.

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

  (972) 771-7725 is the number of the Rockwall Police Department's Record Section, which is located at 205 W. Rusk Street, Rockwall, Texas 75087.

• Can you obtain recovery in a Rockwall car crash if you were drowsy behind the wheel?

  Yes, you may still recover damages in Rockwall if you were drowsy behind the wheel during a crash. The city follows Texas' modified comparative negligence rules, which allow parties with partial blame to receive proportionally reduced awards. The court will assign percentage values to your and the defendant's respective shares in the fault, mitigating payouts accordingly. If you are found to be 30% at fault, you will only get 70% of the compensation you seek.

• Why is it advantageous for you to get a lawyer for car accident matters in Rockwall?

  Getting a car accident lawyer in Rockwall is advantageous because they may have ties to medical professionals and facilities in the area who are willing to accept payment on a deferred basis. An attorney will negotiate with insurance corporations and gather all the healthcare bills and documents needed to justify your claim.

• What damages can you seek in a car accident suit in Rockwall?

  You can seek a variety of economic and non-economic damages for car accident claims in Rockwall. Economic damages are tangible expenses like the cost of repairing or replacing property and the value of medical treatments and rehabilitation. Non-economic damages cover harms that evade monetary estimation, like emotional suffering and the loss of consortium.

• How much time after a car crash in Rockwall can you file a case in court?

  If you have a cause of action for a car accident in Rockwall and Texas, you must go to court within two years of the incident's occurrence. If the deadline falls on a weekend or holiday, you are allowed to file on the next business day because the court was closed through no fault of your own. It is best to file swiftly because preliminary processes like serving a summons and issuing notices take time.

• What are the common causes of car accidents in Rockwall?

  Car crashes in Rockwall are caused by aggressive tailgaters who lead to rear-end impacts and careless lane changes that cause sideswipes. Head-on collisions often result from distracted or drunk drivers who fail to see oncoming traffic. Beating the red light ends up in t-bone accidents along intersections. Hazardous roads also lead to single-car incidents.

• 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.