Have you been injured in a car accident in Dallas, Texas?
If you or a loved one has been injured in a motor vehicle collision, you need a lawyer who will fight for your legal rights and protect your financial interests. Choose the Francis Injury Firm to handle your car accident claim, and you will work with experienced Dallas car accident lawyers who are strong advocates for injured victims.
Motor vehicle accidents can happen at any time, and in any community, and can involve even the safest drivers. Often these serious automobile crashes are due to the negligence of other motorists.
Dallas Car Accident Statistics
According to the Texas Department of Transportation, 205,498 people were injured in traffic collisions in Texas in 2020—especially in Dallas, which has some of the most dangerous intersections in the state, including Belt Line Road at Dallas Parkway and I-635 at the Coit Road exit. Sadly, many traffic accidents result in serious personal injuries or death.
When you hire the Francis Firm for your car accident claim, there will never be any legal fees or costs until we recover money for you. Let an experienced Dallas car accident lawyer from the Francis Firm help you understand your rights and the settlement you deserve.
Why You Need a Dallas Car Accident Lawyer
If you’ve been involved in a car accident in Dallas, hiring an experienced car accident lawyer is critical to protecting your rights and securing fair compensation. Navigating the aftermath of an accident can be overwhelming, especially when dealing with medical bills, vehicle repairs, and lost wages. On top of that, insurance companies may not always act in your best interest. A Dallas car accident lawyer serves as your advocate throughout this complex process, ensuring that your case is handled professionally and your settlement reflects the full extent of your damages.
1. Legal Expertise and Guidance: Car accident cases can involve intricate legal procedures, especially when there are questions about liability. Your attorney will help you understand the legal framework surrounding your case, including how Texas comparative negligence laws may affect your compensation. They will handle all legal filings, negotiate with insurance companies, and ensure that you meet all deadlines.
2. Proving Liability: Establishing liability is a key component of any car accident claim. A lawyer can gather the necessary evidence—such as police reports, eyewitness testimonies, and accident scene reconstructions—to prove the other party’s negligence. This process can be especially challenging if multiple parties are involved or if the other driver disputes fault.
3. Negotiation with Insurance Companies: Insurance companies often attempt to settle claims quickly and for less than what you deserve. An experienced lawyer knows how to negotiate with adjusters to secure a fair settlement that covers all your expenses, including future medical costs, lost income, and pain and suffering. If negotiations fail, your attorney can take the case to court.
4. Maximizing Compensation: Without a lawyer, you may not be aware of all the damages you can claim. In addition to medical bills and property damage, your attorney will ensure you seek compensation for non-economic damages, such as emotional distress, loss of enjoyment of life, and future rehabilitation costs.
Common Car Accident Scenarios in Dallas
- Rear-end collisions on congested highways
- Intersection accidents at high-traffic areas like Mockingbird Lane and Lemmon Avenue
- Hit-and-run incidents in downtown Dallas
- Drunk driving accidents on major roads
- Accidents involving rideshare vehicles (Uber/Lyft)
Steps to Take After a Car Accident in Dallas
After a car accident in Dallas, it's important to know your rights. Follow these steps to protect yourself:
- Ensure safety by moving to a secure location if possible.
- Contact local authorities to report the accident.
- Gather evidence, including photos of the scene and witness contact information.
- Seek immediate medical attention, even if injuries seem minor.
- Contact an experienced Dallas car accident lawyer to discuss your legal options.
Compensation You Can Seek After a Dallas Car Accident
If you've been injured in a Dallas car accident, you may be entitled to compensation for:
- Medical expenses (current and future)
- Lost wages
- Pain and suffering
- Property damage
- Rehabilitation costs
If you or a loved one were injured in a car accident, you might also benefit from understanding truck accident claims or personal injury cases. Learn more about your options by contacting our experienced legal team.
How Do Car Accidents Commonly Happen?
There are many reasons for motor vehicle accidents, which typically involve the negligent or reckless actions of the responsible party. Some of the most common reasons for automobile accidents in Dallas include:
- Reckless driving – Changing lanes too quickly, following too closely, or driving aggressively increases the likelihood of collisions. Rear-end crashes and side-swipes are common results of reckless driving.
- Ignoring traffic laws – Failing to yield, running red lights, and making improper turns at intersections are significant contributors to car accidents. Drivers who ignore traffic laws create hazardous conditions for other road users.
- Distracted driving – Texting, using electronic devices, eating, and other distractions behind the wheel reduce reaction times and increase the risk of accidents. Distracted driving is one of the leading causes of crashes in Dallas.
- Driving under the influence – Alcohol and drug impairment diminish a driver's judgment and reaction time, leading to severe accidents. DUI-related crashes often result in fatalities or life-threatening injuries.
- Poor road conditions – Bad weather, reduced visibility, and poorly maintained roads are major factors in accidents. Drivers must adapt to these conditions, but many fail to do so, leading to collisions.
- Speeding – According to the Insurance Information Institute, speeding contributed to 17% of fatal crashes in 2019. High-speed accidents often result in severe damage and catastrophic injuries.
What Kinds of Injuries Commonly Result from Car Accidents?
Car accidents can cause serious injuries, including traumatic brain injuries, concussions, and other head injuries. Some victims suffer back and neck injuries, spinal damage, or even paralysis. Soft tissue injuries, whiplash, and broken bones are also common after an accident.
If you've suffered serious injuries in a car accident, you need an experienced Dallas car accident attorney to investigate your case. Through a free consultation, we can determine whether you may have a claim for compensation.
Why Do I Need to Hire a Dallas Car Accident Lawyer?
An expert Dallas car accident lawyer will help you navigate the legal process, proving liability, and obtaining the compensation you deserve. Here’s how:
Provide Legal Guidance
Your car accident attorney can explain your legal rights and options, helping you file a personal injury claim or lawsuit.
Investigate the Accident
We will investigate the accident, interview witnesses, review medical records, and reconstruct the accident scene if necessary.
Negotiate with Insurance Companies
Insurance companies often offer settlements that don’t cover your full damages. We negotiate on your behalf to ensure maximum compensation.
Represent You in Court
If negotiations fail, we are prepared to take your case to trial, presenting evidence and cross-examining witnesses to secure the best possible outcome.
What to Do After a Car Accident in Dallas
1. Call 911 and insist on a police report. Even if no one is injured, a police report is essential to document the crash.
2. Move to Safety. If possible, take photos of the vehicles before moving them. Move to a safe area afterward.
3. Check on all Parties. Check for injuries, but if you’re hurt, stay in your vehicle until emergency personnel arrive.
4. Secure Evidence. Take pictures of the vehicles, license plates, and the other driver’s insurance card.
5. Seek Medical Attention. Even minor injuries can worsen. Get evaluated by medical professionals to document injuries for your claim.
Motor Vehicle Collision Verdicts & Settlements
$1,970,000 – Drunk Driver Causes Brain Injury
A drunk driver with a BAC three times over the legal limit struck a vehicle, causing brain injury. The settlement totaled $1,970,000.
$900,000 – Drunk Driver Causes Spinal Injury Requiring Surgery
A drunk driver caused a spinal injury, requiring surgery. The settlement amounted to $900,000.
$565,000 – Driver on Cell Phone Seriously Injures Family
A distracted driver on her phone ran a red light, causing multiple injuries to a family. The case settled for $565,000.
Contact the Francis Firm Today
If you or a loved one has been injured in a Dallas car accident, the Francis Firm can help you secure the compensation you deserve. Contact us today for a free, no-obligation consultation.
Our Dallas car accident lawyers will fight for your legal rights and ensure that you receive the maximum compensation possible.
Frequently Asked Questions
What should I do immediately after a car accident in Dallas?
After a car accident in Dallas, you should first ensure everyone's safety and call 911. Seek medical attention if needed, report the accident to the police, and collect relevant information like the other driver's details, witness contacts, and photos of the scene.
How long do I have to file a car accident claim in Dallas, Texas?
In Texas, the statute of limitations for filing a personal injury claim after a car accident is two years from the date of the accident.
Do I need a police report for a car accident in Dallas?
Yes, having a police report can be very helpful when filing an insurance claim or pursuing legal action after a car accident in Dallas. The report serves as an official record of the incident and may be used to establish fault.
What damages can I recover after a car accident in Dallas?
In Dallas, you may recover damages for medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, vehicle repair costs, and in some cases, punitive damages if the other driver was grossly negligent.
Is Texas a no-fault state for car accidents?
No, Texas follows a 'fault' system for car accidents, meaning the at-fault driver is responsible for paying damages. Victims can file claims with their own insurance, the at-fault driver's insurance, or file a lawsuit.
What should I do if the other driver is uninsured?
If the other driver is uninsured, you may file a claim under your uninsured motorist coverage if you have it. Additionally, you can pursue a personal injury lawsuit against the driver, but collecting compensation may be difficult if they lack assets.
Can I still recover damages if I was partially at fault for the accident?
Yes, under Texas' modified comparative negligence rule, you can recover damages as long as you are less than 51% at fault. However, your compensation will be reduced based on your percentage of fault.
What if the insurance company offers me a quick settlement?
Be cautious about accepting a quick settlement from an insurance company. These offers are often lower than what you may be entitled to. It’s recommended to consult with a lawyer before accepting any settlement.
How much does it cost to hire a Dallas car accident lawyer?
Most Dallas car accident lawyers, including those at our firm, work on a contingency fee basis. This means you don’t pay any legal fees unless we win your case and secure compensation for you.
How long does a car accident lawsuit take in Dallas?
The length of a car accident lawsuit varies depending on the complexity of the case. It can take anywhere from a few months to several years if the case goes to trial. Your lawyer can provide an estimate based on your specific circumstances.