If you were seriously injured in a car accident, it’s important to secure legal help. Our Dallas car accident lawyers at Aldous Law are passionate about representing our clients with skill, determination, and decisiveness. We work hard to give our clients the advocacy they need and deserve.
Trial law is what we do, and it’s what we do best. At Aldous Law , our legal team is known for our abilities in the courtroom and are known and respected by judges and opposing counsel.
Call Aldous Law at (214) 526-5595 or contact us online to speak to schedule a free consultation with a Dallas car accident lawyer.
Texas Car Accident Laws
After a car accident occurs, Texas adheres to an “at-fault” rule to determine who is liable for any resulting damages. This means that the motorist responsible for causing the accident is also the one responsible for paying damages through an insurance carrier.
No-Fault vs At-Fault States
This at-fault system is opposite a no-fault system that some states follow. No-fault systems require each party to file a claim with their own insurance regardless of who is responsible for causing the accident. Fortunately for Texans, at-fault states allow more opportunities for injury victims to file a personal injury claim.
Additionally, the law recognizes that not all accidents are caused solely by one party, in fact, the majority of accidents involve the fault of more than one party in some form. For example, the injured party may have been speeding at the time of the accident or they might have failed to use their turn signal.
Modified Comparative Fault Rule in Texas
In these cases, an injured driver can still recover compensation through Texas’ “modified comparative fault" rule, as long as the claimant is less than 50% at fault for causing the accident. In these situations, the overall compensation awarded to an injured party will be reduced by the same percentage of fault they are found to be responsible for.
For example, if you are found to be 10% at fault for the accident, the total compensation awarded to you will also be reduced by 10%.
Texas Car Insurance Coverage
Unlike most at-fault states, all auto insurance policies in Texas include personal injury protection coverage or PIP benefits. In the event of an accident PIP insurance covers your and your passenger’s medical expenses and other economic losses that are related to your injuries.
PIP Insurance Coverage
PIP coverage is typically reserved for no-fault states as all injury victims are required to file with their own insurance to recover compensation except in specific circumstances. In this way, Texas does allow more options to recover compensation, however, any driver can request to remove PIP coverage as long the request is done in writing.
If you are looking for a car accident lawyer in Dallas, TX, contact Aldous Law today by calling (214) 526-5595 or by contacting us online. Offering free consultations.
Reasons to Hire a Dallas Car Accident Attorney
Because motor vehicle accidents are very commonplace, most people who are injured in car wrecks try to pursue compensation for their damages on their own. However, there are many benefits to working with an experienced car accident attorney.
At Aldous Law, our team can:
- Investigate the cause of your accident and collect evidence.
- Handle communication with the insurance company, so you can focus on recovering.
- Determine the value of your claim to ensure a fair settlement.
- Fight for maximum compensation in court if the case proceeds to trial.
With decades of experience and more than 200 trials under our belts, you can count our team of Dallas car accident lawyers to put your best interests at the forefront of all our efforts. At Aldous Law, clients are family.
What You Need to Know About Determining Responsibility
There are a number of factors our Dallas car accident lawyers looks into to determine who was responsible for an accident during the discovery phase of the legal process, including:
- Drunk drivers
- Distracted driving
- Pedestrian involvement
- Rollover accidents
- Poor/confusing road design
- Vehicles driving the wrong-direction
Determining responsibility is key to understanding who was at fault, and who needs to be targeted by your personal injury lawsuit to ensure you secure the maximum compensation possible.
We work with our clients to piece together the events that led up to the accident and use that information to create a plan of action that puts them in the best possible position to succeed.
Common Causes of Car Accidents
Car accidents can be caused by a number of things, but it typically boils down to either human error or a manufacturing defect. Regardless, knowing what can cause a car accident can help you recognize the warning signs that one could happen.
Here are some of the most common causes of car accidents:
- Distracted Driving
- Speeding
- Drunk Driving
- Ignoring Traffic Lights or Signs
- Road Rage
- Inclement Weather
- Poorly Maintained Roads
- Vehicle Malfunctions
Understanding the Importance of Prompt Legal Action
After a collision, it's vital to initiate legal steps to safeguard your rights and guarantee just recompense for your injuries and damages as soon as possible. Delay in seeking legal assistance can lead to the loss of crucial evidence, forgetting details of the event, and unforeseen legal obstacles.
Here are some key reasons why prompt legal action is essential:
- Preserving evidence: Hiring a lawyer as soon as possible increases the chances of obtaining critical evidence such as photos from the crash site, witness testimonials, and CCTV recordings.
- Investigating the accident: A proficient attorney specializing in auto accidents can carry out a thorough investigation to establish accountability, gather evidence, and formulate a compelling case for you.
- Dealing with insurance companies: Insurance firms frequently try to reduce or deny claims. Having an attorney on your side might help you level the playing field and get fair recompense.
- Statute of limitations: Every state has a statute of limitations that establishes a deadline for filing a vehicle accident lawsuit. Failure to achieve this deadline may result in the loss of your job.
- Peace of mind: By working with an experienced automobile accident lawyer, you can focus on your recovery while knowing that a legal professional is looking out for your best interests.
Don't delay in seeking legal representation after a car accident. Contact Aldous Law to schedule a free consultation and discuss your case with our experienced Dallas car accident attorneys.
Commonly Asked Questions
What should I do if I'm involved in a car accident?
There are critical steps you must take in the event of an automobile accident in Dallas, TX. First, ensure everyone's safety and call 911 if anyone is injured. Exchange insurance information and contact information with the other drivers involved, and gather supporting evidence such as photographs and witness testimony. Reporting the occurrence to your insurer is also critical, as is having a medical check-up, whether or whether you believe your injuries are serious.
How long do I have to file a car accident claim in Texas?
In Texas, you typically have two years from the date of the auto accident to file an injury case. Nonetheless, it is advisable to consult with a lawyer as quickly as you can because there may be exceptions to this deadline. Delaying your claim may result in the loss of your opportunity to seek compensation.
What damages can I recover in a car accident claim?
Medical bills, lost pay, property damage, pain and suffering, and other kinds of damages may be recoverable in an auto accident claim. The particular damages you can claim will be determined by the facts of your case. An expert automobile accident attorney can assist you in determining the types of losses for which you may be entitled to reimbursement.
How long does it take to settle a car accident claim?
The length of time it takes to resolve an auto accident claim is determined by various factors, including the complexity of the issue, the level of injuries sustained, and the insurance company's willingness to negotiate an equitable settlement. Some car accident claims can be handled in a few months, but others may take longer, especially if they wind up in court. A professional auto accident attorney can help you navigate this process and work to reach a fair resolution in a timely manner.
Fill out our online form to begin discussing your case with a member of our firm.
