The increasing number of automobile wrecks and crashes in Texas is frightening. Immediately after a car accident, you are expected to take action. You must inform the local police and call 911 if needed. Accidents that result in injury, death, or considerable vehicle damage (to the extent where the vehicle cannot be driven from the site) must be reported as per Texas laws. Check with an injury doctor to know the impact of the crash on your body. Once you feel okay, it is time to call a Houston car accident attorney. In this post, check five key reasons to get a lawyer.
- You want genuine advice. Friends and family members are great for support, but you need an expert when it comes to legal advice. There are some trustworthy personal injury law firms in Houston that work for car accident victims. A skilled attorney can advise on your rights and guide you on your interests.
- You want to know your claim better. Just because you were injured doesn’t mean your car accident claim will hold. Many factors, including your share of fault (if any), will determine the eventual settlement. Let an attorney evaluate the circumstances and evidence for you.
- You were at fault. Like many other states, Texas also follows the modified comparative fault rule. If you had a share in fault, your settlement would be reduced accordingly. The at-fault driver’s insurance company will use your fault to minimize what they pay. It would help if you had a lawyer so that you don’t settle for less.
- There were many vehicles involved. Accidents and crashes involving multiple vehicles or commercial trucks are often more complicated. It can be hard to determine fault and liability without detailed investigation. As you recover at home, get an attorney who can do the work and gather evidence to bolster your claim.
- You need to file a lawsuit. If out-of-court negotiations don’t work as expected, you may need to file a personal injury lawsuit. A trial can be extremely expensive but necessary in some cases. For that, having an attorney on your side will help.
If you are hiring a car accident attorney for the first time, make sure that you are experienced enough. You can also check online for reviews of law firms in Houston, and don’t forget to schedule an initial meeting to discuss things further. You don’t typically need to pay the lawyer right away.