Were you recently injured in a car accident in Houston, Texas? If so, you might be entitled to compensation. Finding the right “Car Accidents Attorney Near Me” can be crucial to navigating the complex legal process and securing the compensation you deserve. Attorney Brian White Personal Injury Lawyers can help you recover damages for medical bills, lost income, and pain and suffering.
Our Houston car accident lawyers, led by a Board Certified civil trial specialist, have a proven track record of success. We fight for our clients against insurance companies and defendants, securing millions in compensation. Our firm handles various cases, including car accidents, motorcycle accidents, truck accidents, slip and falls, wrongful death claims, and brain injury cases.
Why You Need a Car Accident Attorney
Hiring a car accident attorney offers several key advantages after an accident:
- Level the Playing Field with Insurance Companies: Insurance adjusters often try to minimize payouts. A lawyer understands the tactics used by insurance companies and can protect your rights.
- Increase Your Chances of Winning: Individuals represented by an attorney are more likely to win their cases and receive higher settlements.
- Combat Blame Shifting: The at-fault driver might try to blame you for the accident. A lawyer can defend you against these accusations.
- Conduct an Independent Investigation: Your attorney will conduct a thorough investigation to gather evidence and build a strong case. This is separate from the insurance company’s investigation, which may be biased.
- Negotiate Fair Settlements: Insurance companies often pressure victims to accept lowball settlements. An attorney will negotiate for a fair settlement that covers all your damages.
Cost of Hiring a Car Accident Attorney
Most car accident attorneys work on a contingency fee basis. This means you don’t pay any fees unless your lawyer wins your case. The fee is typically a percentage of the recovered compensation. Attorney Brian White Personal Injury Lawyers operates on this model, covering all upfront costs.
Determining the Value of Your Case
Several factors influence the value of a car accident case:
- Severity of Injuries
- Long-Term Impacts of Injuries
- Pre-Existing Conditions
- Lost Wages and Earning Potential
- Medical Expenses
- Property Damage
- Pain and Suffering
When to Hire a Car Accident Attorney
It’s crucial to hire a car accident attorney as soon as possible after your accident. This allows for timely investigation, evidence preservation, and allows you to focus on recovery. Early involvement of an attorney doesn’t increase costs under a contingency fee agreement.
What to Do After a Car Accident
Following these steps after a car accident can protect your health and legal rights:
- Stay at the scene.
- Call the police.
- Exchange information with other drivers.
- Gather evidence (photos, videos).
- Seek medical attention.
- Avoid giving recorded statements to insurance companies.
- Contact a car accident attorney.
Common Causes of Car Accidents in Houston
Understanding common car accident causes can highlight the importance of safe driving practices:
- Distracted Driving: Texting, eating, and other distractions significantly increase accident risk.
- Drunk Driving: DUI accidents are a major problem in Houston, often resulting in severe injuries or fatalities.
- Speeding: Speeding reduces reaction time and increases the severity of accidents.
- Other Factors: Aggressive driving, inexperienced drivers, poor road conditions, and vehicle defects also contribute to accidents.
Texas: An At-Fault State
Texas follows an at-fault system for car accidents. This means the at-fault driver’s insurance company is responsible for covering damages. If you’re partially at fault, your compensation may be reduced proportionally, unless you are more than 50% at fault. In that case, you cannot recover damages.
Proving Negligence
In a car accident lawsuit, you typically need to prove negligence. This involves demonstrating the other driver had a duty of care, breached that duty, and caused your injuries and damages.
Statute of Limitations
You have two years from the date of the accident to file a lawsuit in Texas. Certain exceptions may apply.
Types of Damages
You can recover two main types of damages:
- Economic Damages: Medical bills, lost wages, property damage. These are quantifiable financial losses.
- Non-Economic Damages: Pain and suffering, emotional distress, loss of enjoyment of life. These are more subjective and harder to quantify.
Punitive Damages
In rare cases involving gross negligence or intentional harm, punitive damages may be awarded to punish the defendant.
Types of Car Accidents
Different types of car accidents require specific legal strategies:
- Rollover Accidents
- Rear-End Collisions
- Fatal Accidents
- Head-On Collisions
- Whiplash Injuries
- Single-Vehicle Accidents
- Accidents Due to Road Defects
Choose the Right Car Accident Attorney
Choosing an experienced and dedicated car accident attorney is essential after an accident. Attorney Brian White Personal Injury Lawyers offers free consultations and works on a contingency fee basis. Contact us today to discuss your case. We serve various areas in Houston and are available 24/7. Don’t hesitate to reach out for the legal help you need.
