Frequently Asked Questions About Car Accidents
Getting behind the wheel is more than just knowing how to drive. It’s important for all drivers to know some of the basic facts of the road and what happens in the event of a car accident.
At the J. Gonzalez Injury Attorneys, we strive to keep our clients and the general public informed about essential information regarding car wrecks, so that they are aware of how to handle the situation. This list should not be considered to be a comprehensive list as the situations surrounding every single car accident vary. Contact the offices of J. Gonzalez Injury Attorneys for experienced lawyers who can help iron out the details of your particular situation.
Do I need a lawyer for a car wreck?
Do I need to speak with the other driver’s insurance company?
The insurance company may also attempt to settle with you before you have had a chance to speak with an attorney about your injuries. If you accept their settlement offer, you will not be able to pursue additional compensation. Do not sign any paperwork without first speaking with your insurance company or a lawyer.
How can I make a successful accident claim?
How long does it take to resolve a case?
The timeline of a personal injury claim will depend on how quickly you accept a settlement offer. Cases with severe personal injuries usually take longer as it may take time to understand the full extent of the injuries. Do not accept a settlement until the damages are known.
How much can I expect in my settlement?
A just settlement will include medical treatment costs, repair to damaged property, and may include compensation for pain and suffering, as well as time out of work due to crash-related injuries. Working with the experienced team of J. Gonzalez Injury Attorneys will help you to obtain a fair settlement offer.
I didn’t feel any pain after the accident and refused medical attention. It’s been a few days and now I am in pain. What can I do?
Continue treatment until your doctor releases you. You’ll want to maintain a log of these visits to help prove your claim. Even if you did not initially complain or receive medical attention at the time of the accident, there is still the potential for you to obtain compensation.
I was in a car accident. What information should I collect?
If you are able to take down notes, then include license plate numbers, specifics about the car(s) involved (i.e. year, model, make, etc.), and take pictures if possible. If there are witnesses willing to provide you information, then take down their contact information and statements of what they saw.
Also, get the contact information of any police officer that responds to the crash and takes down a report. Get the incident or report number as well.
Is Texas a no-fault insurance state?
Should I accept the settlement my insurance company offers?
Be aware that you are under no legal requirement to accept the first settlement offered, especially if you believe it is not adequate to fully cover all of your injuries and damages.
Should I file a police report?
Also, never settle with an at-fault driver at the time of the accident as this can negatively affect your claim.
Should I try to collect any evidence after my accident?
If possible, consider taking photos of road conditions, the cars involved in the accident, road signs, and skid marks. As previously mentioned, take down notes about the other parties involved. If you are injured, make sure to attend every doctor’s appointment and maintain a log about the healing process, including photographs.
What are some of the common causes of car accidents in Texas?
What if the other driver doesn’t have car insurance?
Unfortunately, not every driver on the road is insured. Even if the at-fault party is underinsured or does not have coverage at all, you can still obtain compensation for your injuries and damages. However, you will need the experience of the J. Gonzalez Injury Attorneys to help you deal with the process.
What types of compensation am I able to obtain if I am injured in a car wreck?
- Medical expenses
- Cost of property damage and loss
- Lost wages
- Pain and suffering
Who can be held legally responsible for the accident?
Who should I contact after an accident?
Even if the car accident was minor and did not cause much damage, you will want to file an accident report with your insurer to begin the process of reimbursement for related medical expenses and vehicle repair.
J. Gonzalez Injury Attorneys is your dedicated personal injury lawyers for car wrecks in the Rio Grande Valley.
If you or a loved one has been injured in a car wreck because of somebody else’s negligence, then contact us today to speak with a dedicated team of lawyers that will get you the compensation you deserve.
Our offices in McAllen, Rio Grande City, and Brownsville means that help is never too far. Get the support you need and the expertise you deserve with J. Gonzalez Injury Attorneys.