Why Should I Hire A Car Accident Lawyer?
Car accidents happen every day throughout Texas. If you haven’t been in one yet, you’re lucky—but the unfortunate reality is that accidents can occur when you least expect them. While many car accidents are minor fender benders, some lead to severe injuries or even fatalities. Regardless of how you feel after a crash, hiring a car accident attorney is one of the best steps you can take.
Why should you hire a car accident lawyer? An experienced attorney can handle the complex Texas personal injury laws surrounding your case, help you avoid costly mistakes, and fight for the compensation you deserve. While you’re not legally required to hire an attorney to handle your claim in Texas, having a knowledgeable advocate can make all the difference.
If you’re unsure whether you need an attorney, the following guide gives several reasons why hiring a car accident lawyer is wise and can give you peace of mind.
Knowledge of Procedures, Laws, and Deadlines
Texas car accident laws can be complicated. Most people don’t know the full scope of the legal rules that apply to their situation—especially when proving fault or determining the value of a claim.
For example, Texas follows a modified comparative negligence system, which means you may still recover damages even if you were partially at fault for the accident. However, your compensation will be reduced based on your percentage of fault, and you cannot recover damages if you are more than 50% at fault.
An injury lawyer can explain how these rules may affect your claim and ensure you understand your legal rights. They’ll also ensure you meet the state’s two-year deadline for filing a personal injury claim and handle the procedural requirements so you don’t miss critical steps.
By working with a legal team, you can focus on your recovery while your attorney handles the legal difficulties of your case.
Determining All Potential Damages
Accurately assessing the value of your claim is one of the most critical steps in a car accident case. Beyond immediate medical bills and vehicle repair costs, you may be entitled to compensation for:
- Past and future medical expenses
- Past and future lost wages and diminished earning capacity
- Past and future pain and suffering
- Property damage
Your attorney will work with experts, such as medical professionals and accident reconstruction specialists, to determine the full scope of your damages. This ensures you seek fair compensation and don’t settle for less than your claim is worth.
Proving Negligence and Liability
One of the key roles of a car accident attorney is to prove that another party’s negligence caused your injuries. Negligence can include reckless behaviors such as speeding, drunk driving, or failing to yield the right of way.
To build a strong case, your attorney may gather evidence such as:
- Police reports
- Eyewitness statements
- Dashcam or surveillance footage
- Vehicle black box data
- Medical records and expert testimony
This evidence can be crucial in holding the at-fault party accountable and securing the compensation you deserve.
Dealing with Insurance Companies
Handling insurance companies after a car accident can feel like a battle. Insurance adjusters are trained to protect their company’s bottom line and may use various tactics to reduce or deny your claim. For example, they may:
- Offer an initial settlement far below the actual value of your claim
- Question the severity of your injuries or demand excessive proof
- Shift blame onto you to justify a lower payout
Additionally, insurance companies often ask for recorded statements from car accident victims, hoping to catch inconsistencies or admissions that can be used against you. Without realizing it, you might say something that jeopardizes your claim. For example, casually mentioning that you "feel fine" could be interpreted as evidence that your injuries are not serious.
A car accident attorney can handle all communications with the insurer to avoid these pitfalls. Your lawyer will ensure that nothing you say can be misconstrued and will advocate for a fair settlement on your behalf. If the insurance company fails to offer a fair settlement, your attorney can prepare your case for court, giving you the best chance at securing the compensation you deserve.
Taking Your Car Accident Case to Trial
Most car accident cases are resolved through settlement negotiations. However, your attorney can take your case to court if the insurance company refuses to offer a fair settlement. At Francis Injury, we have certified trial lawyers prepared to represent you in Texas civil courts. This includes:
- Filing the necessary paperwork
- Presenting evidence to support your claim
- Cross-examining witnesses
- Crafting persuasive legal arguments
Having a trial-ready attorney on your side ensures you are fully prepared, whether your case settles or goes to court.
When Should I Hire a Car Accident Lawyer?
It’s best to hire a car accident attorney as soon as possible after a crash. Evidence can disappear quickly, and witnesses’ memories may fade. By contacting a lawyer early, you can ensure critical evidence is preserved, and your case gets the attention it deserves.
At Francis Injury, we work on a contingency fee basis, which means you don’t pay for legal representation unless we win your case. Our team of experienced trial attorneys will handle every aspect of your car accident claim, from gathering evidence to negotiating with insurers to representing you in court if needed.
Call Francis Injury for a Free Case Review
If you’ve been injured in a car accident in Texas, you don’t have to face the claims process alone. The Francis Injury law firm is here to help you recover the compensation you need. Contact us today to schedule a free consultation. Our dedicated injury attorneys are ready to fight for your rights and guide you through the legal process. Call 817-329-9001 or speak with a personal injury lawyer online.