Car accidents can cause significant physical, emotional, and financial distress for those involved. In Austin, TX, these incidents are all too common, with thousands of injuries and dozens of deaths reported each year. Victims of car accidents may face overwhelming medical bills, lost wages, and long-term disabilities, making it essential to protect their rights and seek justice.
Fortunately, Thomas J. Henry Law, one of Austin’s top law firms, has over 25 years of experience handling car accident cases. They have a proven track record of success in securing justice and compensation for their clients. With their expertise, they can help victims navigate the complex legal process and hold negligent parties accountable for their actions.
In this article, we will examine the common causes of car accidents in Austin, the steps victims should take after an accident, and how Thomas J. Henry Law can help get justice for those affected.
Car Accident Statistics
In 2017, Austin, TX recorded 78 deaths and over 4,000 injuries, many of which were serious, as a result of car accidents caused by various factors. These factors include:
- aggressive driving
- driver inattention
- distracted driving
- speeding
- driver fatigue
- drunk driving
- failure to adhere to traffic signals and signs
- unsafe turns
- unsafe lane changes
- mechanical defects
With such high numbers of car accidents and injuries, it is important to understand the concept of shared fault in Texas.
Texas is a shared fault state, which means that the court considers the fault of each party involved in an accident. If a person is found to be 51% or more responsible for the accident, then they cannot recover any damages. Therefore, it is crucial to hire a car accident lawyer who can help navigate through the legal system and ensure that the client’s rights are protected.
A car accident lawyer can also help in determining the degree of fault and can work to minimize the client’s responsibility for the accident.
Common Causes
Aggressive driving, driver inattention, distracted driving, speeding, driver fatigue, drunk driving, failure to adhere to traffic signals and signs, unsafe turns, unsafe lane changes, and mechanical defects are all common causes of car accidents in Austin, TX. These causes can lead to serious injuries and fatalities, with 78 deaths and over 4,000 injuries reported in Austin in 2017 alone. It is important for drivers to take preventive measures to avoid these causes and reduce the risk of accidents.
Preventive measures can include staying alert while driving, obeying traffic signals and signs, avoiding distractions such as texting or eating while driving, and ensuring that your vehicle is properly maintained. However, accidents can still occur even with the most careful drivers. In such cases, it is important to know your legal options and seek the help of experienced car accident lawyers. Thomas J. Henry Law is a top law firm in Austin that is dedicated to helping clients get justice after a car accident. They offer free consultations and work on a contingency fee basis, meaning that clients do not have to pay upfront fees. With their expertise and experience, they can help clients navigate the legal process and recover damages for medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering.
Steps to Take
Following a car accident, it is crucial to prioritize protecting both your health and potential injury claim. First and foremost, seek medical attention for any injuries sustained in the accident. Even if you feel fine, it is still important to get checked out by a medical professional as some injuries may not present symptoms until later. Additionally, seeking medical attention right away can help strengthen your injury claim, as it provides documentation of your injuries and treatment.
Once you have addressed any immediate health concerns, it is important to start thinking about legal representation, which means you should start looking for car accident attorneys, and dealing with insurance. Contact a trusted car accident lawyer, such as Thomas J. Henry Law, to assist you with navigating the legal process and ensuring that your rights are protected. They can help you communicate with insurance companies and negotiate a fair settlement for your damages.
It is important to remember that insurance companies are not always on your side, and having a skilled lawyer on your side can greatly increase your chances of receiving fair compensation for your losses.
Frequently Asked Questions
What factors determine the amount of compensation in a car accident case?
Medical expenses and lost wages are two key factors that can affect the amount of compensation in car accident cases. Other factors may include the severity of the injuries sustained, the amount of property damage, and the degree of fault of each party involved.
It is crucial to gather evidence such as police reports, witness statements, and medical records to determine the extent of damages and establish liability. The importance of gathering evidence cannot be overstated, as it can significantly impact the outcome of a case.
Ultimately, the goal of compensation is to provide adequate financial support to cover the costs of medical treatment, lost wages, and other expenses related to the accident.
How long does it typically take to settle a car accident case?
The average settlement time for a car accident case can depend on various factors, such as the complexity of the case, the extent of the injuries, and the willingness of the parties to negotiate a fair compensation. Negotiating compensation can be a lengthy process, especially when dealing with insurance companies that may try to offer a low settlement or delay the process.
On average, it can take anywhere from a few months to a year or more to settle a car accident case, depending on the circumstances. It is important to work with an experienced car accident lawyer who can guide you through the legal process, protect your rights, and help you obtain the compensation you deserve.
Can a car accident case be settled out of court?
Car accident cases can be settled out of court through negotiation strategies between the parties involved. There are several benefits of settling out of court, including reduced legal fees and a quicker resolution to the case.
Negotiation strategies involve both parties coming to an agreement on the amount of compensation to be paid for damages incurred. However, it is important to note that settling out of court may not always be the best option, especially if the at-fault party is unwilling to pay a fair settlement.
In such cases, seeking the assistance of experienced car accident lawyers can help ensure that victims receive just compensation for their losses.
What should I do if the at-fault driver’s insurance company contacts me?
Dealing with insurance companies can be a daunting task after a car accident, especially if the at-fault driver’s insurance company contacts you.
It is important to remember that their main goal is to settle the case for as little as possible, which may not fully cover the damages or injuries sustained from the accident.
In this situation, it is recommended to seek legal representation from an experienced car accident lawyer who can handle negotiations with the insurance company on your behalf.
A lawyer can help you understand your rights, gather evidence, and navigate the legal process to ensure that you receive fair compensation for your losses.
Having a lawyer on your side can also provide peace of mind and alleviate the stress of dealing with insurance companies.
What if I was partially at fault for the car accident?
In Texas, the concept of comparative negligence applies in car accident cases where both parties involved share fault. This means that the court will determine the percentage of fault for each party and reduce the damages awarded accordingly.
If an individual is found to be 51% or more responsible for the accident, they cannot recover any damages. In such cases, insurance coverage becomes crucial. Most insurance policies in Texas provide for coverage even if the policyholder is partially at fault for the accident. However, the amount of coverage may vary depending on the percentage of fault.
It is important to seek the assistance of an experienced auto accident attorney to navigate through these complexities and ensure that you receive the compensation you deserve.
