What To Do After a Car Accident in Texas

The steps an injured driver takes right after the accident are necessary for their health and to put themselves in a good position when our Laredo car accident attorney advocates for them.

The priority following an accident should always be to assess one's health and that of any passengers in the vehicle. If anyone is injured, medical attention should be sought immediately by calling for an ambulance or going to the nearest hospital.

Even if there are no apparent injuries, it is still important to call the police and report the accident. The police will create an official report of the accident that can be used to establish fault and liability in any subsequent legal proceedings.

When speaking with the police, it is essential to stick to the facts and avoid making any statements that could be misinterpreted later. The police will likely ask for driver information, including license and insurance details, and may also interview witnesses to gather more information about what occurred.

If possible, drivers should also take photos of the accident scene, including damage to vehicles and any visible injuries sustained by themselves or passengers. These photos can be used as evidence during negotiations or in court.

While it is essential to speak with the police and gather evidence, it is equally important to avoid discussing the details of the accident with other drivers or bystanders. Statements made in the immediate aftermath of an accident can be used against the person making them later on, so it is best to keep interactions with others to a minimum and avoid admitting fault or apologizing for anything that may have happened.

Once the accident's immediate aftermath has been addressed, drivers should notify their insurance companies about the accident. Even if the other driver admits fault, it is still important to report the accident to one's own insurance company. The company will likely request a copy of the official police report and any photos or witness statements to determine liability and assess damages. We can help with this process.

If the other driver's insurance company contacts the person involved in the accident, it is important to avoid accepting a quick settlement offer without first consulting with our Laredo car accident lawyer. Insurance companies are often motivated to settle claims quickly and for as little money as possible, so we must get our professional legal advice before agreeing to any settlement offer.

Understanding Your Rights After a Car Accident

After a car accident, it’s crucial to understand your rights to ensure you receive the compensation you deserve. Many individuals are unaware of the legal protections available to them or the steps they can take to strengthen their case. At Cardenas & Rodriguez, we believe in empowering our clients with knowledge.

Here are some key rights you should be aware of:

• The Right to Seek Compensation: You have the right to pursue damages for medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering resulting from the accident.
• The Right to Legal Representation: You are entitled to hire an attorney who can advocate for your best interests and navigate the complexities of your case.
• The Right to Medical Care: You can seek immediate medical attention and ongoing treatment for injuries sustained in the accident, regardless of fault.
• The Right to Insurance Information: You have the right to receive information about the insurance policies involved and to communicate with insurance companies regarding your claim.
• The Right to a Fair Settlement: You should not feel pressured to accept a quick settlement offer; you have the right to negotiate for a fair amount that fully covers your damages.

Understanding these rights can significantly impact the outcome of your case. If you have been involved in a car accident, our experienced attorneys are here to provide guidance and support every step of the way. Contact us today to discuss your situation and ensure your rights are protected.

Car Accident Investigations

Car accident investigations are essential. A comprehensive investigation helps identify who is at fault for the accident. This is crucial for holding the responsible party accountable and ensuring that you receive the compensation you are entitled to. Accurate evidence from the investigation can substantiate your claims of injury and damage, making it more likely that you will receive a fair settlement. If the other party disputes their liability or the extent of your injuries, a thorough investigation provides the necessary evidence to challenge their claims.

This evidence may include:

• Police reports
• Medical records
• Witness statements
• Surveillance footage
• Photographs 

At Cardenas & Rodriguez, our experienced Laredo car accident attorneys are dedicated to conducting meticulous investigations to build a strong case for our clients. We leverage our skill and resources to ensure that every aspect of the accident is examined and documented. Our team collaborates with accident reconstruction specialists who use scientific methods to recreate the accident scene. This includes analyzing vehicle damage, skid marks, road conditions, and other physical evidence to determine how the accident occurred. These specialists provide detailed reports and expert testimony that can be invaluable in proving fault and demonstrating the mechanics of the accident to a jury or insurance company.

How Modified Comparative Negligence Works

In Texas and 32 other states, the "modified comparative negligence" system is used to determine fault and award damages in car accidents. Under this system, each driver involved in the accident is assigned a percentage of blame based on their actions. If a driver is found to be less than 50 percent at fault, they can collect damages for their losses.

The amount of damages that can be collected is proportional to the driver's assigned percentage of fault. For example, if a driver is found to have zero fault and the damage award is $100,000, they can collect the total amount. However, if they are found to be 30 percent at fault, they can only collect 70 percent of the damage award, or $70,000 in this case.

Recoverable Damages in a Car Accident Claim

A successful car accident claim facilitates the recovery of various damages, alleviating financial burdens and allowing focus on the path to recovery.

• Medical Expenses: This includes hospital bills, surgeries, medications, rehabilitation, and other medical costs associated with your injuries.
• Wage Loss: If your injuries hinder your ability to work, you may be eligible for compensation to cover the income you've lost throughout your recovery.
• Property Damage: The costs associated with repairing or replacing your vehicle and any personal belongings damaged in the accident can be included in your claim for compensation.
• Pain and Suffering: Your claim can encompass non-economic damages, such as physical pain, emotional distress, and the overall impact on your quality of life resulting from the accident.
• Wrongful Death Damages: In heartbreaking scenarios where a loved one loses their life in a car accident, surviving family members have the right to seek compensation for funeral expenses, loss of financial support, and the emotional suffering endured.

Understanding the Statute of Limitations in Texas

In Texas, the statute of limitations for personal injury claims, encompassing car accidents, typically stands at two years from the incident date. Failing to commence legal proceedings within this designated period may lead to the dismissal of your case.

While exceptions do exist, such as cases involving delayed discovery of injuries, it is strongly recommended that you promptly seek guidance from our adept attorneys at Cardenas & Rodriguez. Time sensitivity is paramount, and our dedicated team is steadfast in constructing a robust case within the confines of the legal timeframe.

Contact Our Laredo Car Accident Attorney Today

At Cardenas & Rodriguez, our unwavering dedication to advocating for your rights and securing the compensation you rightfully deserve sets us apart. Reach out to us today to schedule a consultation, marking the crucial first step toward rebuilding your life after an unfortunate accident. Your journey to justice starts with us. 

Contact Cardenas & Rodriguez today to meet with our car accident lawyer in Laredo!