As a resident of Abilene, Texas, you understand the dangers that come with driving and navigating the roadways. Car accidents happen every day in Abilene, and when they do, lives are changed forever. If you or a loved one has been seriously injured in a car accident that was caused by another driver's negligence or reckless behavior, you may be entitled to compensation.
The attorneys at Fletcher Law have experience helping clients in Abilene and throughout Texas recover damages from car accident injury claims. They understand how difficult this time is for you and your family. Their goal is to handle the legal aspects of your case so you can focus on recovering from your injuries. They have a proven track record of success in negotiating settlements with insurance companies and winning verdicts in court.
Don't delay - call the car accident lawyers at Fletcher Law today for a free, no-obligation consultation about your case. They work on a contingency-fee basis, so you pay nothing upfront. You deserve justice and fair compensation. The team at Fletcher Law is here to help you get back to your life.
Common Types of Car Accidents in Abilene
Car accidents are an unfortunate part of life in Abilene, as in any city. If you have been injured in a motor vehicle collision, it is important to understand your legal rights. The experienced car accident lawyers at Fletcher Law have handled hundreds of cases involving:
•Rear-end collisions: This is the most common type of accident. It occurs when a driver fails to stop or slow down and hits the vehicle in front of them. Rear-end crashes often cause whiplash and other neck injuries.
•Head-on collisions: These devastating accidents happen when two vehicles traveling in opposite directions collide into each other. Head-on crashes frequently lead to catastrophic injuries and even death.
•Side impact crashes: Also known as “T-bone” accidents, these happen when a vehicle is struck in the side by another vehicle, often at an intersection. Side impacts pose a high risk of injury due to minimal barriers between the occupants and the point of impact.
•Distracted driving accidents: The use of mobile devices while driving is a leading cause of accidents in Abilene and across Texas. If a distracted driver hits your vehicle, you may be entitled to compensation.
•Drunk driving accidents: Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs impairs one's ability to safely operate a motor vehicle and often results in crashes that cause serious harm. DUI accident victims may pursue legal claims against the at-fault driver.
If you or a loved one has been injured or killed in any of these types of accidents caused by another driver’s negligence or recklessness, contact the car accident attorneys at Fletcher Law. We will review your case at no cost or obligation and help you pursue maximum compensation through an insurance claim or lawsuit. You deserve justice and financial recovery, and we have the experience to help you achieve it.
What to Do After a Car Accident in Abilene
If you are involved in a car accident in Abilene, Texas, there are important steps you should take to protect yourself legally and financially.
Seek Medical Attention Immediately
Your health and safety should be your top priority after an accident. Call 911 for emergency services right away if anyone suffers injuries. Even if there are no obvious injuries, you may have internal damage or injuries that don’t appear for hours or days. Get checked out by a doctor as soon as possible after the accident. Your medical records can also serve as important evidence for any insurance claims or legal actions resulting from the accident.
Call the Police
Notify the Abilene Police Department or Sheriff’s Office and file an official police report of the accident. The police report contains vital information to support any insurance or legal claims, including the time and location of the accident, witness contact details, and drawings of what happened. Ask the responding officer for the police report number and keep a copy of the full report for your records.
Exchange Information
Get the name, address, phone number, driver's license number, license plate number, insurance details and vehicle information from the other drivers involved. Also, try to get contact information from any witnesses to the accident.
Contact a Car Accident Attorney
An experienced car accident lawyer can advise you on the proper steps to take and help you pursue compensation for medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering, property damage, and more. At Fletcher Law, our Abilene car accident attorneys offer free initial consultations to evaluate your claim and determine the best way to pursue fair compensation for your damages. We handle insurance negotiations and litigation for a wide range of car accident injury cases.
Don’t delay - call our office today for a free case review. The sooner you act, the stronger your claim will be. Our goal is to make the legal process as easy as possible for you during this difficult time.
Evidence To Use In Your Car Accident case
To build a strong car accident injury case, you need to gather important evidence. Some key pieces of evidence to obtain include:
- Police report. The official police report from the responding officer(s) contains details about the accident, statements from all parties involved, and any citations issued. Be sure to obtain a copy of the full report, not just the short-form exchange of information.
- Medical records. Records of any medical treatment you received for injuries related to the accident are important for proving damages. This includes emergency room visits, doctor appointments, physical therapy, and more. Obtain written records, bills, and invoices for all treatment.
- Photographs. Take pictures of the vehicles involved, the accident scene, injuries, and anything else relevant to the incident. Photographs provide visual evidence to support your case. Have photos printed in addition to storing them digitally.
- Witness statements. Get written and signed statements from any witnesses to the accident describing what they saw. Witness testimony provides crucial corroborating evidence. Ask witnesses for their name, address, phone number, and email in case they need to be contacted for further questions or to testify.
- Accident reconstruction. For serious or complex accidents, consider hiring an expert accident reconstructionist. They can analyze evidence like photographs, videos, vehicle damage, and skid marks to determine how the accident likely occurred and who was at fault. Their findings and testimony may be persuasive in proving liability.
- Insurance information. Obtain the other driver's auto insurance information, including the provider name, policy number, and policy limits. Your attorney will need this information to file a claim and determine the potential value of your case.
Building a compelling case requires gathering as much evidence as possible while facts and memories are still fresh. Work closely with your attorney to determine what additional evidence may be needed to strengthen your claim. The more evidence you have to support the details of the accident and your resulting injuries, the better your chances of obtaining fair compensation.
Determining Liability in an Abilene Car Crash
Determining liability in a car accident can be complicated. As an injury victim, you deserve to be compensated for losses resulting from another driver’s negligence. The attorneys at Fletcher Law have experience determining liability and fault in Abilene car crashes.
To establish liability, we investigate the circumstances surrounding your accident. We gather evidence from the vehicles involved, photos from the accident scene, witness statements, traffic camera footage, and police reports. We look for signs that the other driver violated traffic laws or engaged in reckless behavior. Things like speeding, distraction, DUI, or disregarding traffic signs or signals can all point to the other driver being primarily at fault.
In some cases, multiple parties may share liability. For example, if poor road design or maintenance contributed to the crash, the government agency responsible for the roadway could share some fault. Product defects in a vehicle or its parts could also make the vehicle manufacturer partially liable. We consider every possible liable party to build the strongest case on your behalf.
Once we determine liability and the percentages of fault for each party, we can pursue compensation through insurance claims, settlement negotiations, or litigation if necessary. The liable parties and their insurance companies are responsible for compensating you for medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering, property damage, and other accident-related losses.
At Fletcher Law, our Abilene car accident lawyers have the experience, skill, and resources to investigate your crash fully, establish liability, and fight for maximum compensation on your behalf. Call us today for a free case evaluation and to discuss your legal options after an accident. We work on contingency, so you pay nothing unless we win your case.
How Much Is Your Car Accident Injury Claim Worth?
Determining the value of your car accident injury claim involves several factors. The severity of your injuries, the amount of time you missed from work, and the details of your accident all play a role. An experienced car accident lawyer can evaluate your case and provide an estimated range of what your claim may be worth.
Type and Severity of Injuries
The severity and type of injuries you sustained in the crash directly impact your claim's value. Minor soft tissue injuries like whiplash are on the lower end of the scale. Broken bones, severe cuts, head trauma or injuries requiring surgery have a higher value. Permanent or long-term disabilities tend to be the most severe. Your medical records and bills serve as evidence for the severity of your injuries.
Lost Wages and Loss of Earning Capacity
If your injuries prevented you from working for a period of time, you may be entitled to compensation for your lost wages. You will need records from your employer showing your typical salary and the specific time you missed. If your injuries will permanently impact your ability to work or earn the same wages as before the accident, your claim's value also increases. Your lawyer can work with medical and vocational experts to determine your loss of earning capacity.
Details of the Accident
The details surrounding your accident also matter. An accident caused by another driver's egregious actions like drunk driving or reckless behavior has a higher claim value than a minor fender bender. The amount of damage to the vehicles involved provides further evidence of the accident's severity. Police reports, photos from the scene, and witness statements all help demonstrate the details of how the crash occurred.
By evaluating these factors with the guidance of an experienced lawyer, you can determine a reasonable range of value for your car accident injury claim. While no exact science exists, an estimate can help you evaluate any settlement offers to ensure fair compensation for your losses. With the lawyer's help during negotiations or in court, you have the best chance of recovering the maximum amount deserved for your claim.
Why You Need an Abilene Car Accident Attorney
After being involved in a car accident, you will likely face many difficulties, such as dealing with insurance companies, medical bills, and lost wages. An experienced car accident attorney can help you through this challenging time and fight for the compensation you deserve.
Legal Knowledge and Experience
An Abilene car accident lawyer has extensive knowledge of Texas personal injury laws and legal procedures. They can properly value your claim and negotiate with insurance companies on your behalf. Without legal counsel, you may not receive the full and fair settlement you are owed.
Investigation and Evidence Gathering
Your attorney will conduct a full investigation into your accident. This includes gathering police reports, witness statements, medical records, and other evidence to build a strong case. They have resources and experience to uncover facts that you may miss on your own.
Handling Insurance Companies
Dealing with insurance companies can be frustrating and confusing. They may try to take advantage of you or deny your claim altogether. A car accident lawyer knows how to communicate with insurers and push back against unjust offers or denials. They can handle phone calls, paperwork, and negotiations so you can focus on your recovery.
Representation in Court
If a fair settlement cannot be reached, your attorney may represent you in court. They can consider filing a lawsuit on your behalf and advocate for you during the legal proceedings. Without an attorney, you would have to represent yourself against experienced insurance lawyers, which often does not end well for the plaintiff.
An Abilene car accident attorney can give you peace of mind that your rights are protected and your interests are being fought for during this difficult time. Their legal counsel and experience significantly increase your chances of obtaining fair compensation for your injuries and damages. For the best outcome of your car accident claim, call an experienced car accident lawyer as soon as possible after the incident.
Abilene Car Accident Statistics: What You Need to Know
Abilene, Texas sees thousands of car accidents each year, many resulting in serious injury. If you or a loved one has been hurt in a car accident in Abilene, it’s important to understand some key statistics about these incidents.
The majority of these crashes occurred during daylight hours, on weekdays, with clear weather conditions. This indicates that driver error and negligence, not environmental factors, are primarily to blame for these collisions.
The most dangerous intersections in Abilene are South 14th Street and Barrow Street, South 1st Street and Sayles Boulevard, as well as Judge Ely Boulevard and South 14th Street. Speeding, distracted driving, drunk driving, and failure to yield the right of way are common causes of serious crashes at these locations.
If you’ve been in an accident at one of these intersections or anywhere else in Abilene, you may be entitled to compensation for your injuries. An experienced Abilene car accident lawyer can help determine who is at fault for the crash and seek damages from the responsible parties to cover medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other costs.
Don’t delay in contacting a law firm to discuss your legal options. In Texas, the statute of limitations for filing a car accident injury claim is two years from the date of the incident. However, insurance companies will often try to settle quickly for much less than the true value of the case. With the help of a lawyer advocating for you, you can get the maximum compensation you rightfully deserve.
Call Fletcher Law today for a free case evaluation. We have successfully represented hundreds of car accident victims. Let our experience work for you.
Choosing the Right Car Accident Lawyer for You
Choosing an experienced car accident lawyer is one of the most important decisions you can make after being injured in an auto accident. The right attorney can help you recover damages and hold the at-fault parties accountable. When searching for car accident lawyers in Abilene, here are some factors to consider:
Experience Handling Car Accident Cases
Look for attorneys with a proven track record of success in handling car accident injury claims. An experienced lawyer will know how to thoroughly investigate your accident, deal with insurance companies, and determine the full extent of your injuries and financial losses. They can build a strong case to pursue the maximum compensation on your behalf.
Focus on Car Accident and Personal Injury Law
Some law firms handle many areas of law, while others focus specifically on car accidents and personal injury. Choose a firm that concentrates on these types of cases. They will have the resources, skills, and knowledge to dedicate to proving liability and obtaining fair compensation for your claim.
Offer Free Initial Consultations
Most reputable car accident lawyers will offer a free initial consultation. Take advantage of these consultations to get a sense of the attorney’s experience, fees, and how enthusiastic they seem about taking on your case. Ask about their success rate with cases similar to yours. A caring, dedicated lawyer will take the time to understand the details of your situation and determine the best way to proceed.
Reasonable Fees and Costs
Car accident attorneys typically work on a contingency-fee basis, meaning they only get paid if they recover compensation for you. Their fees are deducted from your final settlement or court award. However, you still want to find a lawyer with reasonable rates. Ask about their contingency percentage and whether they deduct fees only from your settlement or also from other costs recovered.
Choosing the right car accident lawyer is critical to obtaining justice and fair compensation. Do your research, check reviews from former clients, and schedule consultations. The ideal attorney for your needs is out there—you just have to find them.
FAQs About Car Accident Claims in Abilene
FAQs About Car Accident Claims in Abilene
If you have been in a car accident in Abilene, you likely have many questions about the legal process for pursuing compensation. Here are some of the most frequently asked questions about car accident claims our Abilene car accident lawyers receive.
What is the statute of limitations for filing a car accident claim in Texas? In Texas, the statute of limitations for filing a personal injury claim after a car accident is two years. This means you have two years from the date of the accident to file a lawsuit against the at-fault driver. If you do not file within this time period, you will be barred from recovering compensation.
Do I need a lawyer to handle my car accident claim? While you are not legally required to hire an attorney, having experienced legal counsel on your side is highly advisable. Car accident cases can become very complex, and insurance companies are primarily concerned with their own interests. A lawyer will handle all communication with the insurance companies, investigate your claim, determine the full value of your damages, and fight to get you the maximum compensation possible.
How long will the claims process take? The time required to resolve a car accident claim can vary depending on the severity of the injuries, the amount of damage, and whether a lawsuit needs to be filed. Less complex claims may settle in a few months, while serious injury claims can take 6-18 months or longer to fully resolve. Your attorney can advise you on what to expect for your specific claim.
Will I have to go to court? The majority of car accident claims settle out of court through negotiations with the insurance companies. However, if the at-fault party's insurer refuses to offer a fair settlement, litigation may be required. Your attorney will determine if filing a personal injury lawsuit is necessary to get you fair compensation for your damages. While court cases can take longer, they may lead to a more favorable outcome.
The claims process after an Abilene car accident can be complicated. An experienced car accident lawyer can guide you through the process, handle communications, investigate your claim, determine its full value, and fight for maximum compensation on your behalf. Do not hesitate to contact Fletcher Law today for a free consultation regarding your car accident.
Call Fletcher Law For Help With Your Car Accident Case
If you have been injured in a car accident in Abilene, Texas, contacting an experienced car accident attorney should be one of your top priorities. The attorneys at Fletcher Law have been helping car accident victims for years. We know how difficult this time can be, and we are here to guide you through the legal process, determine who is at fault, and fight to get you the maximum compensation possible.
When you call our office, we will schedule a free, no-obligation consultation to review the details of your accident. Bring any photos of the vehicles involved, medical records, police reports, or other relevant evidence from the scene. This information will help us evaluate your claim and determine the best way to proceed. We handle a wide range of car accident cases, including:
- Rear-end collisions: The driver behind you is typically considered at fault in a rear-end collision. We will collect evidence to prove their negligence and get you compensation for your injuries and vehicle damage.
- Head-on collisions: Head-on collisions often result in catastrophic injuries. We will conduct a thorough investigation to identify the at-fault driver and hold them accountable.
- Multi-vehicle pileups: Large multi-car accidents can be complex, with multiple parties potentially at fault. Our experienced attorneys have the resources and expertise to determine liability in these complicated cases.
- Drunk driving accidents: If the other driver was intoxicated at the time of the crash, you may be entitled to punitive damages. We will work to obtain police reports and sobriety test results to build a strong case against the drunk driver.
Don’t delay - call Fletcher Law today at 512-619-4006 for a free consultation about your Abilene car accident case. We do not collect any fees unless we are able to obtain compensation on your behalf. Let our dedicated team get started fighting for you.
Conclusion
You don't have to go through this difficult time alone. The team at Fletcher Law has decades of experience helping Abilene residents recover damages after serious car accidents. Their knowledgeable attorneys will handle your case with compassion and dedication, fighting to get you the maximum compensation allowed under Texas law. While no amount of money can undo the trauma of a car crash, it can help pay for medical bills, lost wages, and secure your financial future.
If you or a loved one has been seriously injured in an auto accident that was not your fault, don't hesitate to contact the car accident lawyers at Fletcher Law for a free consultation. They have a proven track record of success and work on a contingency basis, so you have nothing to lose. Let their experience and expertise guide you through the legal process so you can focus on recovery. The road ahead may be long, but Fletcher Law will be with you every step of the way.