Best Car Accident Lawyers in Rowlett

FAQs

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

  For non-emergency police assistance, call the Rowlett Police Department at 972-412 6200.

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

  As the Rowlett Police Department has officially gone 100% paperless in reference to crash reports, you may file your accident report request online at: https://www.rowletttx.gov/168/Records-Section.

• What kinds of damages are available to you in Rowlett car accident cases?

  If you were seriously hurt in a Rowlett car accident that was caused by someone else’s negligence, you may be entitled to receive compensation for your losses, namely economic and non-economic damages. Economic damages, which compensate for quantifiable losses, may include medical expenses, lost wages, lost earning capacity, and property damage. Meanwhile, non-economic damages are meant to compensate you for subject live losses like pain and suffering, mental anguish, disfigurement, and physical impairment.

• Can you still recover compensation if you are partly responsible for a car accident in Rowlett?

  Rowlett follows Texas’ proportionate responsibility system, which allows you to recover compensation from the other party as long as you are no more than 50% responsible for the accident. However, your portion of fault will diminish the value of your claim by a proportionate amount. For example, if the court rules that you are 20% responsible for the crash, your total compensation will also be reduced by 20%.

• What should you do if the at-fault party’s insurance company tries to talk to you after a car accident in Rowlett?

  It is advisable that you do not talk to insurance companies if you get injured in a Rowlett car accident because it is their job to try and minimize your claim as much as possible. They may even have ways to make you say something that will get them out of paying you at all. The best course of action to take is to enlist the help of a personal injury lawyer to represent you and protect your rights against insurance companies.

• Can you get compensation if your loved one died in a Rowlett car accident?

  It is possible for you to obtain restitution for your losses if your loved one passed away in a Rowlett car crash as a result of someone else’s negligence through a wrongful death claim. Damages that may be recovered through a wrongful death claim include medical, funeral, and other death-related expenses; loss of love and companionship; loss of inheritance; and projected support to the qualified survivors of the deceased.

• How long do you have to file a case after getting hurt in a Rowlett car accident?

  If you sustain injuries following a car crash in Rowlett, you generally have two years from the date of the accident to pursue a personal injury claim. This deadline is called the statute of limitations and the two-year time window applies to all of Texas. If you fail to take legal action before the statute of limitation expires, you may no longer be able to recover compensation.

• 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.