You've been injured in a car accident. The pain, stress, and uncertainty can feel overwhelming. You may be facing extensive medical bills, time off work to recover, a totaled vehicle, or permanent disabilities. In times like these, you need an experienced Denton car accident lawyer on your side to help you pursue fair compensation so you can start to put your life back together.
Fletcher Law has been helping injured car accident victims in Denton for years. We understand how difficult this time is for you and your loved ones. Our dedicated attorneys will handle your case with compassion and expertise, conducting a thorough investigation of the crash and building a compelling case to recover damages for your injuries, vehicle repairs, lost wages, and pain and suffering. With Fletcher Law as your advocate, you can focus on your recovery knowing we have your best interests at heart. Call today for a free consultation - we don't get paid unless we win your case.
Do I Need a Lawyer for My Car Accident in Denton?
If you have been in a car accident in Denton, Texas, you may be wondering if you need to hire a car accident lawyer to help you pursue a claim. The short answer is yes, hiring an experienced car accident attorney is typically in your best interest. Here are a few reasons why:
•Your lawyer can investigate the accident. An attorney will gather facts about how the collision occurred, including obtaining the official police report, interviewing witnesses, consulting with experts, and more. They can then determine who is at fault and build a strong case.
•They know how to value your claim. Calculating a fair settlement amount for injuries, vehicle damage, lost wages, and other losses requires legal experience. An attorney will know how to properly value all aspects of your claim to pursue the maximum compensation you deserve.
•They can handle negotiations. Insurance companies are in the business of paying out as little as possible for claims. An attorney has experience negotiating with insurers and will fight for the highest settlement amount possible for their client.
•They can take your case to court if needed. If negotiations with the insurance company stall or they refuse to offer a fair settlement, a lawyer can file a personal injury lawsuit on your behalf and take the case to court. They can present the evidence to a judge or jury to pursue the compensation you need and deserve.
•Their fees are typically contingent on your recovery. Most car accident attorneys 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. So, there is little upfront risk to hiring a lawyer.
In summary, retaining an experienced Denton car accident attorney after any collision is one of the smartest moves you can make. With legal guidance, you have the best chance of recovering all you are owed from those responsible for your injuries and losses. Don't delay—contact a Denton car accident lawyer today to discuss your case.
What Are My Rights After a Car Accident in Texas?
As an accident victim, you have certain rights under Texas law. Knowing them will help you get fair treatment and full compensation.
Seek Medical Attention Immediately
Your health and safety should be your top priority after an accident. Get checked out by emergency responders at the scene and follow up with your doctor as soon as possible. Your medical records will serve as important evidence for your claim.
Report the Accident to the Police
Notify the police to come to the accident scene. Their official incident report contains details about the vehicles, drivers, passengers, location, time of day, weather conditions, and more. Get the report number and request a copy for your records.
Contact a Denton Car Accident Lawyer
An attorney can advise you on the merits of your potential claim, help you deal with insurance companies, and work to get you maximum compensation for medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other accident-related losses. They will know how to build a strong case to prove another driver's negligence caused your injuries.
Do Not Settle With the Insurance Company Quickly
Insurance companies are in the business of paying out as little as possible on claims. Do not accept their initial offer, no matter how generous it seems. Your attorney and doctor will know the true value of your claim based on the severity of your injuries and other factors. Be patient and don't settle for less than you deserve.
Consider Filing a Personal Injury Lawsuit
If the insurance company refuses to offer a fair settlement or denies your claim altogether, you may need to take legal action. A lawsuit can force a higher payout and hold the negligent parties accountable. Your Denton car accident lawyer will determine if this step is right for your situation based on the details of your accident and claim.
Determining Liability and Negligence in Your Denton Car Accident Case
Determining liability and negligence in your Denton car accident case is crucial to receiving fair compensation. As an injured victim, you must prove the other driver was negligent and liable for the damages.
Negligence refers to the failure of the other driver to exercise a reasonable standard of care. To prove negligence, you must show:
- The at-fault driver owed you a duty of care (all drivers owe a duty to operate vehicles safely)
- The at-fault driver breached that duty (by speeding, distracted driving, DUI, etc.)
- The breach caused your injuries and damages
- You suffered actual injuries and losses as a result
Liability means the at-fault driver is responsible for the accident. Some factors that determine liability include:
Traffic violations
If the other driver committed traffic violations like running a red light or stop sign, driving while intoxicated or speeding excessively, it shows a breach of duty. Police reports, witness statements, and traffic camera footage can help prove traffic violations.
Aggressive or reckless driving
If the at-fault driver was driving aggressively by tailgating, unsafe lane changes or cutting other vehicles off, it demonstrates a willful disregard for others’ safety. Witness accounts and accident reconstructions are useful for establishing reckless driving.
Distracted driving
Using a cell phone, texting while driving, or any other distracting activity that takes the driver's attention from the road can constitute negligence. Phone records, witness statements or the at-fault driver's own admission can prove distracted driving.
By working with a Denton car accident lawyer, you can conduct a thorough investigation to determine liability and negligence. An attorney can gather police reports, interview witnesses, review medical records and bills, and consult with accident reconstruction experts to build a strong case. With clear evidence of negligence and liability, you have the best chance of recovering damages for your injuries and losses.
Gathering Evidence to Strengthen Your Car Accident Claim
Gathering evidence at the scene of a car accident is crucial to building a strong claim for compensation. As an injured victim, there are several steps you should take to preserve important details from the crash.
First, call 911 to report the accident and get any necessary medical attention. Your health and safety should be your top priority after a collision.
Next, collect information from the other driver(s) involved, including their name, address, phone number, license plate number, driver's license number, insurance details, and vehicle make and model. Also, get contact information for any witnesses to the crash. Their accounts of what happened can help support your claim.
Use your phone to take photos of the vehicles involved, license plates, the intersection or area of the road where the accident occurred, and any visible injuries. Video footage or audio recordings of eyewitness statements are also helpful. All of this evidence will aid in reconstructing the events leading up to and during the crash.
Obtain a copy of the official police report from the responding officer. The police report contains crucial details about the accident that can determine who is at fault. Check that all information in the report is correct before signing it. If needed, you can amend the report to clarify any inaccuracies.
See a doctor as soon as possible after leaving the scene. Your medical records and bills will provide evidence of any injuries sustained in the crash. Even if you feel fine after the accident, you may have internal injuries that are not yet apparent. Early diagnosis and treatment are key to recovering compensation for medical expenses and pain and suffering.
Collecting this evidence and documentation from the start will significantly help your Denton car accident lawyer build a solid case to recover damages from the at-fault parties and their insurance companies. With the right evidence and a skilled attorney on your side, you have the best chance of obtaining fair compensation for your injuries and losses.
Types of Compensation You May Be Entitled to After a Denton Car Accident
After being injured in a car accident in Denton, you may be entitled to compensation for damages. There are several types of compensation that may apply in your case:
Medical Expenses
You are entitled to compensation for any medical bills, hospital stays, physical therapy, prescription drugs, and other medically necessary treatments resulting from injuries sustained in the accident. Keep records of all medical expenses related to your injuries.
Lost Wages
If your injuries prevented you from working, either temporarily or permanently, you may receive compensation for any lost income during that time. Provide pay stubs, W-2s, or other evidence of your typical earnings to prove your lost wages.
Pain and Suffering
You may receive additional compensation for any pain, suffering, or loss of enjoyment of life resulting from your injuries. The amount will depend on the severity and duration of your injuries. Your attorney can help determine an appropriate settlement amount.
Property Damage
If your vehicle or any personal property was damaged in the accident, you are entitled to compensation to repair or replace the damaged items. Provide repair estimates, invoices, photos, and other evidence to prove the cost of repairing or replacing your damaged property.
Punitive Damages
If the at-fault driver's actions were reckless or intentional, punitive damages may be awarded as punishment and to deter similar conduct in the future. Punitive damages are difficult to obtain but can result in higher compensation. Your attorney will evaluate if punitive damages may apply in your specific case.
By understanding the types of compensation you may be entitled to after a Denton car accident, you can work with your attorney to build a strong claim and fight for full and fair compensation under Texas law. An experienced Denton car accident lawyer can help you navigate the legal process, deal with insurance companies, and get the maximum settlement for your injuries and losses.
How Long Do I Have to File a Car Accident Lawsuit in Texas?
Victims of car accidents in Texas generally have two years from the date of the accident to file a personal injury lawsuit. This is known as the “statute of limitations” for car accident claims. However, there are exceptions to this rule that can extend or reduce the amount of time you have to take legal action.
Consult an Attorney
The statute of limitations for car accident claims can be complicated. It is best for victims to consult with an attorney as soon as possible after an accident to determine exactly how much time remains to pursue a claim and the best path forward. At Fletcher Law, our Denton car accident attorneys offer free consultations to review the details of your case and advise you of your legal options. We will fight to recover the compensation you deserve.
How Much Is My Denton Car Accident Case Worth?
Determining how much your Denton car accident case is worth depends on several factors. The severity of your injuries, amount of vehicle damage, liability percentage, and loss of income are all considered when evaluating a settlement amount.
Injury Severity
More severe injuries like broken bones, damage to internal organs, or permanent disabilities typically result in higher settlement offers. Soft tissue injuries like whiplash or back strains, while painful, usually settle for less. Your medical records, bills, and prognosis will be reviewed to determine an appropriate amount.
Vehicle Damage
The extent of damage to the vehicles involved in the accident also impacts your case value. Totaled vehicles suggest a high-impact collision, so the settlement offer may be on the higher end of the range. Minor dents or scratches indicate a less severe accident and lower offer. Photos of the vehicles can help demonstrate the force of the impact.
Liability and Fault
The percentage of liability or fault assigned to the other driver directly correlates to the settlement amount. If the other driver is 100% at fault, the full value of your claim may be recovered. Comparative fault states like Texas assign a percentage of blame to each driver which reduces your claim amount. Establishing the other driver's clear liability through police reports, witness statements, and accident reconstruction helps maximize your settlement.
Lost Income
If your injuries prevent you from working, either temporarily or permanently, you may recover loss of income in your settlement. Provide pay stubs, tax returns, and a doctor's note indicating how long you were unable to work. The insurance company will calculate your average weekly wage and the number of weeks you were disabled to determine the appropriate amount.
Discussing your Denton car accident case with an experienced attorney is the best way to determine its full value and likelihood of success in court. At Fletcher Law, our attorneys have obtained millions of dollars in settlements and verdicts for clients throughout Denton and surrounding cities. We work on contingency, meaning if we don't win your case, you don't pay. Let us review the details of your accident today to evaluate your claim, free of charge.
Hiring an Experienced Denton Car Accident Attorney
Hiring an experienced Denton car accident attorney is critical if you have been injured in an auto accident. A qualified lawyer can help you pursue compensation for medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other damages.
When searching for a Denton car accident lawyer, look for the following qualifications:
- Years of experience handling car accident injury cases. An attorney with a proven track record of success in obtaining settlements or verdicts for clients will know how to build a strong case for you.
- A focus on personal injury law. Look for a lawyer who concentrates specifically on auto accidents and other personal injury matters. They will have the expertise to determine who is at fault, calculate the full value of your claim, and negotiate the best possible settlement with insurance companies.
- Offers a free initial consultation. Reputable Denton car accident attorneys will provide a no-obligation case review and assessment before you commit to legal representation. Use the initial meeting to get answers to your questions and evaluate the lawyer and law firm.
- Has a team of investigators and legal staff. Properly investigating a car accident claim requires gathering police reports, medical records, witness statements, and other evidence. Choose a lawyer with the resources to fully investigate your accident and build a strong case.
- Represents clients on a contingency fee basis. This means the lawyer only collects a fee if they recover compensation for you. The standard contingency fee for personal injury cases is 33 to 40 percent of your settlement amount. This arrangement means there is no upfront cost to hire the attorney.
By choosing an experienced Denton car accident lawyer, you can focus on your recovery while your legal team works to resolve your claim in the most favorable manner possible. With the guidance of the right attorney, you have the best chance of being fully compensated after suffering injuries in an auto accident that was not your fault.
FAQs: Answers to Your Top Questions About Pursuing a Car Accident Claim in Denton
Pursuing a car accident injury claim in Denton, Texas involves several steps. As experienced Denton car accident lawyers, here are the answers to questions we frequently receive about the claims process:
How much time do I have to file a claim?
In Texas, you generally have two years from the date of your accident to file a personal injury lawsuit. However, it is best to contact a Denton car accident lawyer as soon as possible after your crash to begin investigating and building your claim. Evidence and witness memories fade over time, so the sooner we can start, the better.
How much is my claim worth?
The value of your car accident claim depends on the details of your case, including:
- The severity of your injuries and prognosis for recovery
- Amount of medical bills and lost wages
- Degree of fault of the other driver(s)
- Availability of insurance coverage
We will evaluate all aspects of your case to determine a fair settlement range and fight to get you the maximum compensation you deserve.
Will I have to go to court?
Not necessarily. The majority of car accident claims are settled out of court. However, if the insurance company refuses to offer a fair settlement, we are fully prepared to take your case to trial. Our experienced trial lawyers have a proven track record of success in front of Denton juries.
How are medical bills and lost wages covered?
We will work with your health insurance provider to ensure your accident-related medical bills are covered. For lost wages, we will calculate the total amount you lost due to missed work and include this in the settlement demand to the insurance company. If your claim goes to trial, we will ask the jury to award damages for medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other losses.
Is there an attorney fee if I lose?
No. We handle Denton car accident cases on a contingency fee basis. This means there are no upfront costs to you. We only get paid if we win compensation in your case. If we do not recover damages for you, you owe us nothing.
Conclusion
If you've been injured in a car accident in Denton, don't delay in contacting a personal injury lawyer to discuss your legal options. The attorneys at Fletcher Law have decades of experience helping car accident victims in Denton receive the maximum compensation possible for their injuries. By hiring a Denton car accident lawyer from Fletcher Law, you can focus on recovery while they handle negotiations with insurance companies and build a strong case on your behalf. Don't let the negligence of others derail your life further. Call Fletcher Law today for a free consultation to find out how they can help you get back to living fully after a car accident. Justice and fair compensation are within your reach.