While car accidents are a daily occurrence in Austin and the surrounding areas, few people are prepared for the aftermath of a crash. Between dealing with doctor visits, repair bills, insurance adjusters, and the emotional trauma of a sudden accident, the weeks and months after a wreck can prove confusing and expensive. Some basic facts will help you navigate the process of getting your life back on track after suffering an injury in a crash.
If Someone Else’s Negligence Caused Your Accident, There’s a Good Chance You Can Recover Compensation
Under Texas law, people who are injured in accidents that someone else’s negligence caused may recover compensation for the losses they suffered. Common examples of the negligence that often lead to serious car crashes include speeding, driving while distracted, driving while impaired, and failing to observe traffic laws.
Most Car Accident Cases End in Settlements
While television and movies may have you believe that every accident case ends up in court, the vast majority of car wreck cases settle long before either party sets foot in a courtroom. In fact, they are often settled before a lawsuit is even filed. This is because in most cases, liability is not seriously contested. In other words, the at-fault party admits responsibility for the accident. When this happens, the only thing left to figure out is the amount of compensation that the at-fault party’s insurance will pay to the victim.
Even if Your Case Never Goes to Trial, You Should Still Get a Lawyer
If the insurance company is willing to settle your case, you may feel tempted to work with the company directly by yourself and without an attorney. Understand, however, that insurance companies will often do everything possible to minimize the amount the company has to pay to victims. The company may go so far as to engage in tactics like making low-ball offers and intentionally slowing down the processing of claims.
An attorney who represents you will fully analyze the facts of your case and demand a settlement that adequately compensates you for all of your losses. Should the insurance company try to deny you the compensation to which you are entitled, your lawyer may also file a lawsuit on your behalf and represent you in court.
You Have a Limited Amount of Time to File a Lawsuit
Texas has strict statute of limitations of two years for personal injury claims, with a few exceptions. A statute of limitations is a deadline by which accident victims must file claims and if the statute of limitations expires before filing a claim, victims may find the recovery of compensation impossible in most cases. It is very important to talk to a lawyer as soon as you can after an accident. Your lawyer will evaluate the facts of your case and advise you of any deadlines you may face.
Call Austin, TX Car Accident Attorney George Salinas Today for a Free Consultation
The attorneys at the Law Offices of George Salinas are skilled advocate for those who have been injured in car accidents. If you are looking for an injury attorney in the greater Austin area, we are here to help. You can call our office anytime at 512-851-1004, or contact us through our online form to set up your free case evaluation.
