You've been in a serious car accident in College Station and have questions about your legal rights and options. A car accident lawyer at Fletcher Law can help. We understand the pain, trauma, and disruption that a car accident causes in your life. Our personal injury attorneys have dedicated their careers to helping accident victims recover the compensation they deserve. If you or a loved one has been injured in a car accident in College Station, do not hesitate to contact us for a free consultation regarding your case. There are strict deadlines for filing a claim, so time is of the essence. Your physical and financial recovery are our top priorities. Fletcher Law has the experience, skill, and determination to handle even the most complex car accident cases. Put your trust in our firm and focus on healing — we'll handle the legal details so you can move on with your life.
What to Do After a Car Accident in College Station
If you have been in a car accident in College Station, there are several important steps you should take immediately.
Call 911 for Emergency Assistance
Call 911 as soon as possible if anyone involved requires medical attention. Even if there are no apparent injuries, it is best to call emergency services to properly assess the situation.
Exchange Information
Exchange your name, address, phone number, license plate number, driver's license number, insurance details, and vehicle information with the other driver(s) involved. Also, get the names and contact details of any witnesses to the accident.
Document the Accident Scene
Use your phone to take pictures of the vehicles involved, the surrounding area, traffic signs or signals, and anything else that could be relevant to determining fault. Be sure to get images of any visible damage or injuries as well.
File a Police Report
Call the College Station Police Department to report the accident. An officer will come to the scene, assess the situation, and complete an official accident report. Be cooperative and provide the officer with the details of what happened. Obtain a copy of the police report for your insurance claim.
Contact Your Insurance Provider
Notify your insurance company of the accident as soon as reasonably possible. Provide them with the details of the incident including the official police report. Work with them on the claims process to determine fault and handle injury claims or vehicle damage claims.
Following these steps after a car accident in College Station can help make the aftermath and recovery process easier. Be sure to also consult with a personal injury attorney regarding your legal rights and options. They can advise you on recovering costs and seek fair compensation for your injuries or losses.
Common Car Accident Injuries in College Station
If you have been injured in a car accident in College Station, you may be entitled to compensation. Common injuries from car accidents include:
•Whiplash: Whiplash occurs when the neck is suddenly and forcefully jerked in one direction and then another. This can cause damage to the muscles, tendons, and ligaments in the neck and upper back. Seek medical attention immediately even if pain is minor.
•Head Injuries: Head injuries like concussions can have serious long-term effects. See a doctor right away for any blow to the head. Symptoms may not appear until hours or days after the accident.
•Broken Bones: Broken arms, legs, ribs and other fractures require immediate medical care and surgery in some cases. Multiple breaks can lead to long recovery times and permanent loss of function.
•Internal Bleeding: Not all injuries are visible. Internal bleeding in the chest or abdomen can be life-threatening if not treated promptly. Seek emergency medical help for any serious car accident.
• PTSD: Post-traumatic stress disorder can develop after a traumatic event like a car crash. Symptoms include severe anxiety, nightmares, and uncontrollable thoughts about the accident. Speaking to a mental health professional can help diagnose and treat PTSD.
If you or a loved one experience any of these injuries in a College Station car accident, seek medical attention immediately. You should also contact a College Station car accident lawyer to understand your legal rights. An attorney can investigate the crash, deal with insurance companies on your behalf and determine if you are owed financial compensation for your injuries and other losses.
Determining Liability in a College Station Car Accident
Determining liability in a car accident case involves identifying which party or parties are responsible for causing the collision. As the injured victim in a College Station car accident, there are a few factors to consider when establishing liability:
To determine liability, you must first consider who acted negligently. Negligence refers to a failure to exercise a reasonable level of care that results in damage or injury to another party. Some examples of negligent actions include:
-Distracted driving: Using a cell phone, eating or drinking while driving, drowsiness, etc.
-Driving while impaired by drugs or alcohol
-Failing to yield the right of way
-Speeding or traffic violations
-Aggressive driving behaviors like tailgating, cutting other drivers off, etc.
You should also consider circumstances beyond the drivers’ control that may have contributed to the accident like poor weather conditions, defective auto parts, or unsafe roadways. While these situations do not necessarily prove negligence, they can still help establish liability.
The location and details of the damage to the vehicles involved can also provide clues to determine who is at fault. For example, rear-end collisions typically place liability on the driver who hit from behind. Damage to the front left or right of one vehicle may indicate a driver failed to yield when changing lanes or merging.
Police and witness reports are also critical pieces of evidence for establishing liability. Police officers who respond to the scene will file an official accident report documenting details about the collision which can help identify negligent actions. Eyewitness accounts from passengers or bystanders provide another perspective to help determine liability.
By reviewing all available information regarding your College Station car accident, a personal injury attorney can conduct a thorough investigation to identify the liable parties, determine the appropriate compensation for your injuries, and file a lawsuit on your behalf.
How to Prove Negligence in a College Station Car Accident Lawsuit
To prove negligence in a College Station car accident lawsuit, you must show that the other driver owed you a duty of care, breached that duty, and caused your injuries as a result.
The duty of care refers to the responsibility all drivers have to operate their vehicles safely and follow the rules of the road. Things like obeying traffic signs and signals, driving at a safe speed for road conditions, being sober and attentive, and sharing the road with other vehicles and pedestrians.
A breach of duty means the other driver failed to meet the required standard of care. For example, if they were speeding, ran a red light, were distracted or intoxicated while driving. You must be able to show through evidence like witness statements, police reports, or traffic camera footage that the other driver was behaving recklessly or irresponsibly behind the wheel.
To prove causation, you need to establish that the breach of duty directly caused your injuries and losses. Your medical records, bills, photos of your vehicle damage and accounts from physicians and witnesses can all help link the other driver’s negligent actions to your harm.
The final element of your negligence claim is damages. This includes any medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, or property damage you incurred due to the accident. Keep records of all your financial losses and out-of-pocket costs to submit as evidence.
By gathering evidence to prove duty, breach, causation and damages, you have a solid case to pursue compensation for your injuries through a car accident lawsuit. An experienced College Station car accident lawyer can help you file a claim, negotiate with insurance companies on your behalf and take your case to court if needed.
What Kind of Evidence Do You Need For Your Car Accident Case?
To build a strong car accident injury case, you will need to gather important evidence to support your claim. The more evidence you have, the better your chances of receiving fair compensation. Some of the key evidence you should collect includes:
Photos of the accident scene
Take pictures of the vehicles involved, any property damage, injuries, road conditions, and the surrounding area. Photographs provide visual proof of the severity of the collision and can show factors that may have contributed to the accident.
Police report
Obtain a copy of the official police report. The report contains details about the accident from interviews with drivers and witnesses. It will identify who was at fault and list any traffic citations issued. The police report is a crucial piece of evidence for proving liability.
Medical records
Collect records from all doctors, hospitals, therapists, and other healthcare providers you saw for accident-related injuries. Medical reports, test results, treatment plans, and billing statements establish the nature and extent of your injuries. They are necessary for determining the amount of compensation you may receive for medical expenses and pain and suffering.
Eye witness information
Get the names and contact details of anyone who saw the crash. Eyewitness accounts from passengers, bystanders, and other drivers can help verify what happened. Their testimony may be vital, especially if the other driver disputes who was at fault. Be sure to ask witnesses to provide a written statement about what they observed as soon as possible while the details are still fresh in their memory.
Vehicle damage estimates
Have your vehicle inspected by an auto repair shop to assess the cost of repairing or replacing it. Get a written estimate of the damage to use as evidence for the value of your loss of property claim. Take additional photos to document the condition of your car before any repairs are made.
With the proper collection and presentation of evidence, you have the best chance of recovering damages from the at-fault driver in your College Station car accident case. An experienced injury lawyer can help guide you through the process and fight for the maximum compensation you deserve.
Estimating the Value of Your College Station Car Accident Claim
Estimating the value of your potential College Station car accident claim involves several factors. The severity of your injuries, the amount of your medical bills and lost wages, the liability of the other driver, and the limits of their insurance policy all determine what your claim may be worth.
To get an idea of the potential value of your claim, consider the following:
Severity of Injuries
More severe injuries like broken bones, traumatic brain injuries, or spinal cord damage typically result in higher settlement amounts. Soft tissue injuries like whiplash or muscle strains, while painful, generally do not warrant as high of a settlement.
Medical Expenses
Higher medical bills often mean a higher potential settlement. Keep records of all medical care received, including emergency services, hospital stays, physical therapy, medications, and assistive devices. Lost wages from time off work should also be documented.
Liability and Fault
The more clearly the other driver is shown to be at fault, the stronger your claim will be. Police reports, eyewitness statements, photos of the accident scene, and an assessment of how the accident happened all help establish liability. Claims against drivers with a history of violations or accidents often result in higher settlements.
Insurance Policy Limits
The other driver’s insurance coverage limits the maximum amount that can be paid out for your claim. Larger policies mean more funds available for settlement. Uninsured or underinsured motorist coverage can help make up the difference if the other driver has little or no coverage.
While there are many nuances in determining an exact claim value, evaluating these key factors can help you develop a reasonable expectation and ensure you get fair compensation for your College Station car accident injuries. Speaking with a personal injury attorney is the best way to get an accurate estimation and strategize the best path to settlement.
Why You Need an Experienced College Station Car Accident Lawyer
After a car accident, the injuries you sustain can be severe and life-changing. During this difficult time, you need an experienced College Station car accident lawyer to help you pursue fair compensation for your injuries.
An adept lawyer understands the complex legal issues in car accident cases. They can investigate your accident, deal with insurance companies on your behalf, and determine who is at fault. If the other driver is found liable, your lawyer will fight to recover damages for your medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other losses.
Knowledge of Local Laws
Laws regarding car accidents vary in each state and municipality. A lawyer who practices in College Station will be well-versed in the specific statutes and regulations governing car accidents in Texas and Brazos County. They can evaluate how these laws apply to the facts of your unique case. A lawyer from another location may miss key details or not fully understand how local laws impact your claim.
Experience Handling Insurance Companies
In the aftermath of an accident, insurance companies may contact you directly and offer a quick settlement for your injuries. It is never advisable to accept an insurance settlement without consulting an attorney. Insurance companies aim to pay out as little as possible, and the amount offered may not come close to covering the true costs and impacts of your injuries. An experienced lawyer knows how to negotiate effectively with insurance companies to fight for full and fair compensation on your behalf.
Contingency Fee Basis
Most reputable personal injury lawyers work on a contingency fee basis, which means you pay no upfront legal fees. Your lawyer is only paid if they recover compensation for your claim. Their fee is deducted from your final settlement amount. This arrangement means anyone can afford representation from a top lawyer, regardless of their economic means.
Following a car accident, contact a reputable College Station car accident lawyer right away. They can advise you on the proper steps to take and work tirelessly to pursue the maximum compensation you deserve under the law. With the right legal team behind you, you can focus on recovery and let the lawyers handle the rest.
What Witnesses Can Be Helpful For Your College Station Car Accident Case?
Witnesses to your College Station car accident can provide critical evidence to help prove your claim. Their accounts of what happened may corroborate your version of events and show that the other driver was at fault. Some of the most helpful witnesses include:
Passengers in Your Vehicle
Passengers riding with you during the collision saw the events firsthand and can testify to what happened. Their statements will carry a lot of weight since they were in the vehicle with you. Ask any passengers to provide a written and signed statement about what they witnessed as soon as possible after the crash while the details are still fresh in their minds.
Occupants of Other Vehicles
Drivers and passengers in vehicles near yours at the time of the accident may have seen how the crash occurred. Politely ask them if they would be willing to provide a statement about what they observed. Even if they did not see the initial impact, they may have seen events leading up to the crash or the positions of the vehicles after the collision, both of which could be useful.
Pedestrians or Bystanders
Pedestrians, bicyclists or bystanders on the roadside or in nearby buildings may have witnessed your accident. See if any were paying attention at the time of the crash and would be willing to provide a statement. Their accounts could provide key details about traffic signals, vehicle speeds or other factors that led to the collision.
Law Enforcement Officers
Police officers who responded to the accident scene may be able to testify to conditions at the time of the crash. They can describe factors like weather and traffic as well as positions of the vehicles, debris scattered about and any statements made by the drivers or witnesses. Police reports, photos and video from the scene may also be used as evidence to support your claim.
In summary, any eyewitnesses to your College Station car accident may be extremely useful for proving negligence and liability in your injury claim. Be sure to get their names, contact information, written and signed statements as soon as possible after the crash before memories start to fade. Their accounts can help ensure you receive fair compensation for your damages and losses.
How a College Station Car Accident Lawyer Can Help You
A College Station car accident lawyer can help guide you through the legal process after an accident and fight for maximum compensation. Their experience and expertise in personal injury law will be invaluable to you.
Investigating the Accident
Your lawyer will conduct a thorough investigation into the accident, including visiting the scene, taking photographs, and interviewing witnesses. They will reconstruct what happened to determine who is at fault. If needed, they can hire accident reconstruction experts to help establish liability.
Filing a Claim
Once fault is established, your lawyer will file an insurance claim on your behalf or initiate a lawsuit against the at-fault parties. They will negotiate with insurance companies and handle all paperwork and correspondence. Their negotiating skills and knowledge of personal injury law will help maximize your settlement.
Calculating Damages
Your injuries, medical bills, lost work, and pain and suffering all factor into the value of your claim. Your lawyer will review your medical records and bills to determine the full extent of your damages. They can hire life care planners and medical experts to assess the impact of long-term or permanent injuries. They will fight to recover damages for all losses you have incurred due to the accident.
Going to Trial
If a fair settlement cannot be reached, your lawyer is fully prepared to take the case to court. They will build a strong case to present to a judge and jury, call expert witnesses to testify on your behalf, and argue for maximum compensation for your injuries. Their trial experience gives them an advantage when going up against the at-fault party’s legal team.
A College Station car accident lawyer is dedicated to helping accident victims recover damages and navigate the legal system during a difficult time. They have the experience and skills to handle even the most complex personal injury claims and get you the compensation you deserve. Call a College Station car accident lawyer for a free consultation about your case.
Questions to Ask When Hiring a College Station Car Accident Attorney
When hiring a College Station car accident attorney, there are several important questions you should ask to determine if they are the right fit for your case.
How much experience do you have handling car accident cases?
An experienced attorney will have a proven track record of success in recovering compensation for clients. Ask about their success rates in past cases and if they have experience handling cases similar to yours.
Who will be directly handling my case?
Make sure you know specifically which attorney will be handling your case and their level of experience. Some firms may pass your case to a less experienced associate after initially consulting with a senior attorney.
What is your approach to the settlement process?
Discuss the attorney's strategies for pursuing a settlement, including when they typically make the initial demand to the insurance company and how they determine a settlement amount. An aggressive attorney will push for the maximum settlement amount possible.
What are the potential fees and costs if we go to trial?
While most car accident cases settle out of court, you should be aware of all potential fees upfront in the unlikely event your case goes to trial. Discuss both the attorney's fees as well as any additional costs for expert witnesses, depositions, and other trial expenses.
Can you review the details of my accident and injuries?
Share the details of your accident and any injuries you sustained. An experienced attorney can determine the merits and value of your potential claim based on the specific circumstances surrounding your accident. Be prepared to provide police reports, medical records, photos, and any other evidence from the accident.
Do you have any questions for me?
An attentive attorney will have questions about the accident, your injuries, medical treatment, insurance coverage, and more. Be forthcoming with any information that could be relevant to your potential claim. The more details the attorney has, the better they can assess your case.
Asking the right questions will help you find an experienced College Station car accident attorney who will fight for the maximum compensation you deserve. Do your research, know what to look for in a qualified attorney, and don't settle for less.
College Station Car Accident Lawyer FAQs
As a victim of a car accident in College Station, you likely have many questions about the legal process. Here are some of the most frequently asked questions for clients of Fletcher Law.
What should I do after a College Station car accident?
Seek medical attention immediately. Your health is the top priority. Contact the police to report the accident and get documentation for insurance claims. Do not admit fault or sign any statements from the other driver's insurance company. Contact a College Station car accident lawyer as soon as possible to understand your legal rights.
How much does a College Station car accident lawyer cost?
Fletcher Law operates on a contingency fee basis, meaning legal fees are a percentage of your settlement amount. If we do not win your case, you owe us nothing. We only get paid if you get paid. An initial consultation is always free.
How long do I have to file a car accident lawsuit in College Station?
In Texas, the statute of limitations for filing a car accident injury lawsuit is two years from the date of the accident. However, it is best to contact an attorney as soon as possible to begin an investigation, gather evidence, and build the strongest possible case.
What damages can I recover in a College Station car accident case?
You may be entitled to compensation for medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering, property damage, and other economic losses. An experienced College Station car accident lawyer will evaluate all aspects of your case to determine appropriate compensation.
Will my College Station car accident case go to court?
Most car accident cases settle out of court through negotiations with the insurance companies. However, if settlement offers are inadequate, Fletcher Law is fully prepared to take your case to court. We have a proven track record of success in obtaining favorable verdicts and settlements for our clients.
Conclusion
With experienced College Station car accident attorneys on your side, you have a much better chance of recovering maximum compensation for your injuries. The legal team at Fletcher Law will handle every aspect of your car accident injury claim, allowing you to focus on recovering from your injuries. They will investigate your accident, determine who is at fault, deal with insurance companies on your behalf and file a personal injury lawsuit if an acceptable settlement is not offered.
Don't delay in contacting the car accident lawyers at Fletcher Law for a free consultation about your rights and legal options. They are dedicated to helping clients in College Station and surrounding areas who have been seriously injured in a motor vehicle accident through no fault of their own. Your case will be handled professionally, ethically and aggressively to get you the compensation you deserve. Put your trust in Fletcher Law - they will not stop fighting for you.