Frequently Asked Questions About Texas Personal Injury Cases
You might have questions about what to do next after an accident in El Paso or the surrounding areas. Here are some of the most common:
What types of damages can I receive after an accident?
You may be entitled to:
- Economic damages: Cover calculable losses like medical expenses, lost wages and property damage
- Noneconomic damages: Provide compensation for pain and suffering, mental anguish, physical impairment, disfigurement and loss of enjoyment of life
In cases involving gross negligence, you may also be able to recover exemplary damages.
What do I do after a car accident?
First, prioritize your health and safety. Check yourself and others involved in the accident for any injuries and call 911. Let the police collect all the important information, including the other party’s contact information and insurance information. If you are able, take photos of the scene, including the surrounding road. That can help show the damage from the crash and indicate how the accident occurred.
What kinds of injuries happen in car accidents?
Car accidents can result in a wide range of injuries, including:
- Cuts and bruises
- Whiplash
- Fractures
- Spinal cord injuries
- Traumatic brain injuries
- Death
The type and severity of a victim’s injuries can depend on the vehicle’s speed, impact point and whether passengers wore seat belts.
Should I accept the insurance company’s settlement offer?
Texas insurance companies are focused on minimizing payouts, so their initial settlement offers rarely account for the full scope of your damages. It is best to consult an attorney before accepting the offer.
How long will it take to collect money for my Texas personal injury case?
Once your lawyer and the insurance company have reached an agreement, finalizing the settlement takes two to six weeks. While exceptions exist, on average, it takes around a month to complete the paperwork, receive the check and determine the exact proceeds.
How much is my Texas personal injury case worth?
A personal injury case has no definitive value until all facts are thoroughly reviewed and examined under Texas laws.
The value of a personal injury case depends on things like:
- The extent of your injuries
- Your medical expenses
- Your lost wages
- Your pain and suffering
- The degree of negligence involved
An experienced personal injury attorney can help evaluate your case and determine its potential worth.
How long do I have to bring a personal injury lawsuit?
Texas imposes a two-year statute of limitations. With few exceptions, that is the maximum amount of time you have to bring a lawsuit for personal injuries.
What if I was partially at fault for my accident in Texas?
Under the state’s modified comparative negligence rules, as long as you are determined to be 50% or less responsible for the incident, you can receive compensation reduced by your percentage of fault.
Do I need a Texas personal injury attorney?
Since insurance companies have teams of lawyers working to minimize pay or look for grounds to deny claims, an experienced personal injury attorney effectively counters the insurance tactics and ensures you recover the total amount you deserve.
What should I look for in a personal injury lawyer?
When selecting a personal injury lawyer, check their experience, track record and approach. Look for someone who has successfully handled cases similar to yours and has positive client reviews. Also, ensure they are attentive, responsive and communicate well with you.
Call Us Today
For extensive legal representation after an accident in El Paso, contact The Law Office of Abrar & Vergara at 915-845-9621 to schedule your free consultation.