When to Get an Attorney for a Car Accident

If you’ve been in a car accident, whether minor or serious, you’re likely wondering when to get an attorney for a car accident — or if you even need a lawyer for a car accident at all. Before we dive deeper into the whens and the whys for hiring an accident attorney, we can tell you now that no matter how minor your injuries are, it is always a good idea to speak to an attorney. You can’t always trust the insurance companies to do the right thing, and speaking to a lawyer is one of the best ways to protect you and your family.
Car accidents, no matter how minor, are chaotic and stressful, and having someone like an experienced attorney in your corner to help you navigate the situation can be essential when trying to survive the aftermath.
If you need an auto accident attorney in Houston to help walk you through the process and fight for the best outcome possible, contact Grimes & Fertitta at 713-224-7644.
When should I hire an attorney after a car accident?
You may need a lawyer for a car accident if, as a result of the accident, any of the following occur:
- You have suffered injuries (severe or not)
- There is damage to your vehicle
- Someone else’s actions possibly caused the accident
- The other driver’s insurance has offered you a settlement
- A loved one died as a result of the accident
Call an attorney as soon as possible if any of these scenarios are present. After you have taken the steps to properly document the accident scene, contact an attorney you can trust and describe the situation. When you’re ready, you and your attorney can discuss if you’d like to file a claim.
When is it too late to get a lawyer for a car accident?
In Texas, the statute of limitations for filing a car accident claim is two years from the date of the accident. This means you have up to two years to file a lawsuit seeking compensation for most common car accident injuries and damages. Once this deadline has passed, you will generally be unable to file a claim or recover any damages related to the accident.
However, it is important to seek legal representation as soon as possible after the accident. Here are a few reasons why:
- Preserving evidence: Key evidence can be lost or destroyed over time. By hiring a lawyer promptly, you can ensure that important evidence is preserved and that witnesses are interviewed while their memories are still fresh.
- Meeting deadlines: Besides the statute of limitations, there are other deadlines and procedural requirements that must be met during the claims process. An attorney can help you stay on top of these deadlines and ensure that all necessary paperwork is filed correctly and on time.
- Building a strong case: The sooner you hire a lawyer, the sooner they can begin building your case. This includes gathering evidence, obtaining medical records, consulting with experts, and more. A well-prepared case can significantly improve your chances of a favorable outcome.
- Reducing stress: Dealing with the aftermath of a car accident can be overwhelming. Hiring a lawyer can alleviate some of the stress by allowing you to focus on your recovery while they handle the legal aspects of your case.
By hiring a car accident attorney as soon as possible, you decrease your risk of missing the deadline to file a claim and get the compensation that you and your family need.
Is Texas a no-fault state?
No, Texas is not a no-fault state — in fact, it’s an at-fault state. In Texas, the fault system is used to determine liability in car accidents. This means that the driver who is found to be at fault for causing the accident is responsible for the resulting damages and injuries. In no-fault states, each party’s insurance covers their own losses regardless of who caused the accident.
However, in Texas, the at-fault driver (or their insurance company) must compensate the other party for property damage, medical bills, and other related expenses.
If you are involved in an accident in Texas, it is important to establish who was at fault. This determination will significantly impact the claims process and the compensation you may receive. Working with a car accident attorney can help ensure that the fault is accurately determined and that you receive the compensation you deserve.
Should I get a lawyer for a car accident that wasn’t my fault?
We advise you to speak to your lawyer for almost all accidents, but especially if the accident wasn’t your fault, such as in a “hit from behind” car accident. Here are several reasons why:
- Navigating the legal process: A car accident attorney can help you understand the complex legal process involved in filing a claim. They can guide you through each step, from gathering evidence to negotiating with insurance companies.
- Maximizing compensation: An experienced lawyer can help ensure that you receive the maximum compensation available for your injuries and damages. They know how to evaluate your case and calculate the full extent of your losses, including medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and more.
- Dealing with insurance companies: Insurance companies often aim to settle claims for the lowest amount possible. A lawyer can negotiate with the insurance company on your behalf to ensure you receive a fair settlement. They can also handle any disputes that may arise during the process. (Learn more: can you sue a car insurance company?)
- Protecting your rights: An attorney will work to protect your legal rights and interests throughout the claims process. They can advise you on the best course of action and help ensure that you do not inadvertently make any statements or decisions that could harm your case.
- Handling complex cases: If your accident involves multiple parties, serious injuries, or disputed liability, having a lawyer can be crucial. They have the expertise to manage complex cases and ensure that all aspects of your claim are addressed.
Continue reading: Establishing T-bone accident fault
Is it worth getting an attorney for a car accident?
In a word, yes. As we discuss in our article regarding what to do when you get in a car accident, an attorney can help you identify your next steps in the legal process. If you are involved in a car accident involving another party’s negligence, having a trustworthy legal advisor by your side can be invaluable.
What happens when you hire a lawyer for a car accident? The attorney will…
- Investigate your claim and gather evidence that may otherwise be destroyed or lost.
- Help you navigate legal issues and the claims process with more ease so that you can focus on recovery.
- Help you speak with insurance providers and third parties who are likely more experienced than you at negotiating claims.
- Keep you informed about and ahead of deadlines.
- Help ensure that your best interests are kept at the forefront of the conversation.
- Advise you with regard to settlements
- If necessary, prepare your case for trial
The skilled car accident attorneys at Grimes & Fertitta know exactly what to do when our clients get in a car accident and will work hard to help improve the outcomes of your car accident case.
What type of lawyer should you hire after an accident?
If you’re looking to hire a lawyer after you’ve been in a car accident, there are a few things to keep in mind. You can search for a general car accident lawyer, but you have more options depending on the specifics of your accident.
Here are some situations where hiring a specific lawyer can be useful:
Fatal car accident
If a loved one has died as a result of an accident, a Houston fatal car accident lawyer can help ease the burden of medical or funeral expenses by fighting for the compensation your family deserves.
18-wheeler truck accident
The trucking industry is notorious for using its vast resources to get out of accident claims. With a Houston 18-wheeler truck accident lawyer, you’ll have an attorney who can go toe-to-toe with the insurance company to ensure you receive the compensation you deserve.
Serious injury
Serious injuries, especially spinal cord injuries, can be life-altering after an accident. A Houston spinal cord injury lawyer will help you navigate the complicated legal system while you focus on what matters the most: healing.
Product liability
If a defective vehicle product caused your accident and you have suffered any injuries, contact a Houston product liability lawyer. This attorney will be able to help you handle your product liability claim carefully and effectively, fighting for the compensation you deserve so that you can focus on recovery.
The experienced attorneys at Grimes & Fertitta have expertise in all of these areas, but we are especially well known for our ability to handle cases regarding accidents involving serious injuries and wrongful death. As former lawyers for insurance companies, our attorneys know the ins and outs of how these companies approach cases and can use that knowledge to build you a stronger claim.
Get a Car Accident Attorney ASAP: Contact Grimes & Fertitta Today.
Now that we’ve discussed when to get an attorney for a car accident, you should have a better understanding of the importance of hiring the right attorney — and doing it quickly. Not only is it an investment of your time and money, but an attorney plays a huge role in the outcome of your case, and not all attorneys are made equal, so make sure you’re choosing the right one.
Our client-first firm has established a reputation for protecting our clients’ best interests and getting them the best results. At Grimes & Fertitta, you’re never just a case number.
If you’re looking for an attorney for a car accident in Houston, Grimes & Fertitta are ready to help you get what you deserve. Call us today at 713-224-7644 or schedule a consultation online.
More Helpful Articles by Grimes & Fertitta:
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- When to Get a Lawyer for Oil Rig Accidents
- What To Do If You’re Hit By A Truck
- How To Find the Best Car Accident Lawyer in Houston
- Types of Damages in a Lawsuit