Best Car Accident Lawyers in Southlake

FAQs

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

  The non-emergency phone number of the Southlake Police Department is (817) 743-4522.

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

  There are four ways you can obtain a copy of a crash report in Southlake.

  In person: Visit the Department of Public Safety Headquarters at 600 State Street, Southlake, TX 76092.

  By email: Email your request to the Records Manager at dpsrecords@ci.southlake.tx.us.

  By mail: Send your request to the Southlake Police Department. ATTN:  Records Division 600 State Street Southlake, TX 76092

  By fax: Fax your request to the Records Manager at (817) 748-8375.

  Online: Visit the Crash Records Information System (CRIS) at https://cris.dot.state.tx.us/public/Purchase/app/home to file your request.

• How much does it cost to hire a car accident lawyer in Southlake?

  Car accident lawyers in Southlake do not usually have a fixed rate, and their representation fees vary just as how no two car crashes are ever the same. Most car accident attorneys in the city operate on a contingency basis, which means you wouldn’t have to pay a dime if your lawyer is not able to secure compensation for you.

• Can you handle a car accident claim in Southlake on your own?

  While it is advisable that you seek legal assistance immediately if you get hurt in a car accident in Southlake, there are some circumstances in which you can advocate for yourself. These may include: -if the lawyer's fees would take up most of your potential award or settlement amount; -if the insurer admits liability; -if you don't have significant or permanent injuries; or -if you're settling out of court, using mediation, or going to a small claims court.

• What should you do if you are partly responsible for a car accident in Southlake?

  If you think you are partially at fault for an accident in Southlake, it is best not to admit it after the incident and say as little as possible to the other driver. When speaking to the police, stick to the facts of what happened. Moreover, you can still sue for injuries if you are not more than 50% liable for the accident. This means you can still recover damages even if you are partly at fault for the crash as long as you're less than 50% at fault.

• Should you still see a doctor even if you feel fine after a car crash in Southlake?

  You may feel fine in the immediate moments after a collision, but do not delay seeing a medical provider to evaluate you for your injuries properly. Symptoms of certain serious injuries can manifest much later. Make sure to keep a record of all your medical bills, statements, and prescriptions in case you need to file a personal injury claim in Southlake in the future.

• How much time do you have to file a car accident claim in Southlake?

  Following Texas’ statute of limitations, you generally have two years from the date of the accident to file a personal injury lawsuit. This deadline may be shortened or extended, depending on the details of your case, so it is best to take legal action in Southlake as soon as possible. Once the two-year time window passes, you might not be able to recover compensation for your losses anymore.

• 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.