Fort Worth Car Accident Lawyer

Insurance Company Tactics Designed to Undermine Car Accident Injury Claims

Insurance companies often exploit those who are not represented by an experienced lawyer. If you are unfamiliar with the tactics commonly used by insurance companies, it is easy to mismanage your auto accident claim or to forfeit your rights entirely. Some of the strategies employed by auto insurance carriers to avoid liability or minimize the amount paid on claims include the following:

Tactics of Delay: Insurance companies understand the financial hardships that confront families when faced with high medical bills and a sudden loss of household income. Sometimes insurance companies will exploit these financial hardships by dragging out the settlement process. Insurance carriers hope the financial pressure will become so great that accident victims will settle their claim for pennies on the dollar.

General Release of Liability: Many insurance companies provide a general release of liability often accompanied by a nominal settlement amount. The goal is to have car accident injury victims sign this form before they have any idea about the value of their claim or the extent of their injuries. A general release of liability could waive all claims, including those that you are not aware exist.

Damaging Statements: An insurance adjuster may contact you and indicate that they need “your side of the story” so that they can settle your claim. It is important to understand the insurance company’s real motivations. The purpose of a recorded statement is to develop evidence that can be used to deny or minimize the value of your claim. An injury victim should never discuss any aspect of their car accident claim with the other party’s insurance company representative before obtaining legal advice from an experienced Fort Worth car accident attorney. Many unrepresented parties make disclosures regarding pre-existing injuries or expressing feelings of guilt about being involved in an accident that later compromises their personal injury claim.

Exploiting Ignorance: Insurance adjusters understand that the typical auto injury victim has no way to determine the value of a car accident claim without legal advice. The adjuster may try to convince you that your case is not worth anything because there was minimal property damage. Adjusters often refer to such claims as “low impact car accidents.” The reality is that severe whiplash injuries that may cause pain and disability for months are common in accidents with minimal property damage.

Statute of Limitations: Car accident claims in Tarrant County or anywhere throughout Texas are subject to strict timing requirements called the “Statute of Limitations.” This time limit designates the deadline for initiating a car accident lawsuit by filing a “civil complaint.” When car accident victims fail to comply with this deadline, it will typically serve as an absolute barrier to their personal injury lawsuit regardless of the merits of their case. If you are not represented by an experienced Fort Worth car accident lawyer, an insurance company may try to drag out negotiations so that you fail to comply with the statute of limitations.

What Are Common Causes of Car Accidents in Fort Worth?

With a population of 29 million, many people live, work, commute, and travel through Texas daily. Unfortunately, with so many people relying on vehicles for personal and business use, it’s understandable that we experience vehicular accidents. Here are the most common reasons why automobile accidents occur on Texas roads.

Due To Speeding

Texas has some unique speeding laws. There are “prima facie” limits, where individuals can drive above the posted speed limit in certain conditions. Because circumstances exist where drivers might exceed the posted limit, other drivers also feel like they can speed without concern of endangering others.

With that in mind, speeding is dangerous when it puts others at risk, even if it’s legal in some parts of the state. Exceeding the speed limit puts yourself, your passengers, and other drivers at risk of an accident. Driving too fast decreases your response time while increasing the risk of losing control of your vehicle.

Because of Drinking and the Influence of Drugs

Texas regularly has a high alcohol-impaired driving fatality rate, making the roads unsafe for those following the laws. Consumption of alcohol and drugs before driving can cause damage to yourself, property, and other people’s lives. It is a significant problem because alcohol and drugs reduce your mental and physical ability to operate a motor vehicle safely.

As A Result of Texting and Other Driver Distractions

Texting, phone calls, and adjusting the car dash are just a few things that can distract drivers during their average commute. Even though there are laws about texting and using the phone as you drive, drivers in Texas have a difficult time putting their phones away. But every time a driver looks at their phone in the car, it distracts them from driving and increases the likelihood of causing an accident.

As you can tell, there are several reasons why drivers get into car accidents in the Fort Worth, TX area. Weather, improper vehicle maintenance, distractions, and the influence of drugs are a few ways that single and multi-vehicular accidents begin.

Some causes for car crashes are easier to prove fault for than others but require extensive preparation and investigation. Don’t prevent yourself from receiving compensation for the damages another driver caused by waiting too long.

If you believe that any of these common problems were the reason another driver caused your accident, contact us to learn your best options.

Here’s What to Do After a Car Accident in Texas

What should you do after an accident? Immediately after a crash, emotions will run high, and it’s easy to forget all the tasks you should complete documenting the accident. Here are the steps you should take after a car accident in Texas.

1. If necessary, seek medical attention.

The first thing to focus on is your injuries and the injuries of others. If there are any passengers in your vehicle, check in with them before checking in with the other driver. If there’s a medical emergency, call 911. Otherwise, contact the local police to report the accident after moving away from oncoming traffic if you can do so safely.

2. Take photos, videos, and notes about vehicle and property damage.

Once the police officer arrives, get all their contact information, and start taking notes about the incident. Record everything, from the weather and driving conditions, to what caused the accident. Take photographs, videos, and jot notes to document your case.

3. Collect contact information from drivers and witnesses.

Next, receive contact information from anyone else involved in the accident, including the driver and passengers in the other vehicle. Also, be sure to document their driver’s license number, home address, phone number, and insurance information. Keep this information in a safe place for documentation purposes. You’ll also want to request a copy of the police accident report, either at the scene or later from the Texas Department of Transportation.

4. Get medical attention.

Even if you feel fine, it’s always best to visit a physician after a car accident. Some injuries develop months or years after a car accident. A physician can check you out, document any damages, and explain treatment options. Your attorney will also want to know about your injuries and treatment methods for settlement or lawsuit purposes.

5. Refuse to speak with the other driver’s insurance company.

Most drivers think that speaking with the other driver’s insurance company is necessary after a crash. However, it’s best to have your attorney speak with the insurance company on your behalf. Otherwise, you risk falling for common strategies insurance companies use to reduce your settlement. Don’t let this happen to you by refusing to make a recorded statement and only working with an insurance company through your attorney.

6. Contact A Fort Worth Car Accident Attorney and Discuss Your Case

A Fort Worth car accident attorney will protect your legal rights and ensure that you receive total compensation for injuries and damages caused by a negligent driver. They’ll discuss the facts of your case with you, work with insurance companies, and fight for total compensation if your case goes to court.

With experienced legal counsel, you’ll receive more compensation for your damages in a shorter period than you can achieve without an attorney representing you. Discuss your case with The Fulgham Hampton Personal Injury Attorneys today during your free legal consultation.

Do Fort Worth Drivers Need Lawyers After a Car Accident?

There are some circumstances where you do not need an attorney to represent you in a car accident. Generally, the more severe a crash, the more likely you should use the services of a Fort Worth car accident attorney. These questions will help you determine whether to hire a Fort Worth car accident attorney.

• Did the car accident result in injuries or fatalities?

If you or a loved one suffered injuries during an accident, you should work with an attorney. Your attorney will determine the current and future costs of medical treatments and calculate your current expenses. An attorney should help you on your case whenever multiple parties are involved in the accident, one or more people have injuries, or you cannot afford medical care due to another driver’s negligence.

• Is there vehicle or property damage?

Fixing a vehicle and making sure you have transportation after a crash cost money. An attorney will help you recover damages after an accident so that you can replace your car and other property damaged after an accident. Even if there’s minor damage to your vehicle or your property, it’s good to speak with an attorney about how they can help you recover any injuries and guide you through the next steps of the legal process.

• Are you incurring insurance or medical costs from the accident?

Some individuals only recover damages of their property and forget to take care of their own health needs during minor accidents. However, if you suffer from a financial loss because of another driver’s negligent actions causing an accident, you should work with an attorney to recover those damages. Your attorney will document financial loss and use this information during negotiations with insurance companies to help you get back on your feet.

These are a few of the reasons why you should work with an attorney after a car accident. If you answered yes to any of these questions, call us at (817) 697-4400. We’ll begin with a free case review and help you determine your next steps to receive compensation from a liable party after an accident.

What Types Of Car Crashes Can I Be Compensated For In Texas?

Several kinds of car crashes may lead to compensation for an injured victim. This compensation may come from the other driver or an insurance company (either the victim’s insurance or the other driver’s insurance) when the other driver has caused a wreck, such as:

• A drunk driver
• A driver under the influence of drugs, including marijuana
• A reckless driver
• A speeding driver
• A texting, video-chatting, or otherwise distracted driver
• A rear-end or hit-from-behind crash
• A head-on collision
• A crash resulting from failure to stop at a red traffic light or stop sign
• A crash resulting from a failure to yield
• A sideswipe collision
• A crash resulting in injury
• A fatal crash
• A crash involving a truck, 18-wheeler, big-rig, semi, semi-truck, or trailer truck

If you are injured in a car accident, you should contact an attorney to discuss your options, even if you are unsure who was at fault. The attorneys at The Fulgham Hampton Personal Injury Attorneys are experts at understanding the details of a crash and dealing with insurance companies to make sure you are compensated for your injuries. Reach out to the Fort Worth car accident lawyers at The Fulgham Hampton Personal Injury Attorneys by calling 817-697-4400 or contacting us online.

What Type Of Compensation Can I Get From A Car Accident In Texas?

You may be entitled to compensation for many different aspects of a car accident, such as:

• Vehicle damage – compensation to repair or replace your vehicle
• Medical expenses for you and your passengers – including emergency care, surgery, and long-term treatment
• Disfigurement
• Physical impairment
• Pain and suffering
• Mental anguish
• Wrongful death
• Lost wages, missed work, lost earning capacity, and lost economic opportunity
• Loss of consortium

What About Vehicle Damage And What Does It Mean If My Car Is Totaled In Texas?

In theory, after a car accident, the at-fault driver (or their insurance company) should put the other driver in the same position they would be in if there had not been an accident. If the accident is relatively minor, the at-fault driver should pay the bills to repair the other car.

If the damage to the other car is extensive, the car may be “totaled.” This means it would cost more to repair the car than it is worth. When a car is totaled, the owner of the totaled car is paid the car’s pre-accident value. Unfortunately, this value may be less than what it will cost the driver to replace the car or less than what is owed on the car. “Gap insurance” exists for just this scenario – it will pay the difference between what your vehicle is worth and what you owe on it.

Regardless of circumstances, insurance companies can be reluctant to pay out for damaged or totaled vehicles. Hiring an attorney can help you get paid quickly and with minimal difficulty.

What Types Of Injuries Can I Be Compensated For From A Car Accident In Texas?

There are various kinds of injuries you might sustain in a car accident for which you may be entitled to compensation. These include:

• Head trauma (including concussions and traumatic brain injuries)
• Loss of limbs
• Paralysis
• Internal bleeding
• Internal organ damage
• Broken bones
• Neck injuries (including whiplash)
• Back injuries (including herniated discs and other spinal injuries)
• Compression or crushing injuries
• Lacerations

Note that many of these injuries are severe and have long recovery periods. In some cases, car accident victims may never fully recover. These victims deserve to be fully compensated for the lifetime care required with these severe injuries. A skilled attorney can help you understand the full extent of what you might be able to collect for your car accident injuries.

What Is “Pain And Suffering” In Texas?

“Pain and suffering” is a legal term of art. Pain and suffering are non-economic damages, which are difficult to assess with a dollar value. Contrast this to economic damages, such as hospital bills, which involve a clear monetary price. Pain and suffering may include physical pain, mental anguish, and emotional suffering. Post-traumatic stress disorder, the loss of a loved one, and reduced quality of life are all forms of pain and suffering.

Multiple factors are involved in determining damages for pain and suffering, including:

• Pain at the time of the accident
• The pain suffered during treatment
• Long-term chronic pain or discomfort (may include headaches or numbness)
• Loss of function or mobility
• Loss of ability to engage in or enjoy normal activities
• Loss of quality of life
• Emotional trauma (especially if it reduces the ability to lead an everyday life). Some examples of emotional trauma include:
  • Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)
  • Depression
  • Anxiety (including panic attacks)
  • Sleep disturbance or insomnia
  • Newly developed phobias

Pain and suffering damages can be complicated to determine. Contact an attorney at The Fulgham Hampton Personal Injury Attorneys if you have sustained injuries that you think might entitle you to damages for pain and suffering. Below is a brief overview of the two primary methods used to determine pain and suffering damages in Texas.

The Multiplier Method

In Texas, pain and suffering damages are determined using the multiplier method. The multiplier method involves first determining economic damages (such as medical bills) and then multiplying that amount by a particular “multiplier” – an amount between 1.5 and 5. That number becomes the damages for pain and suffering, which is then added to the economic damages. So if you had $1,000 in medical bills and were determined to have a multiplier rate of 2 for pain and suffering, you would be awarded a total of $3,000.

The following factors may be used to determine the multiplier rate in Texas:

• The severity of the injury (injuries that are easily observed and documented, such as broken bones or open wounds, are easier to collect greater damages for)
• Age of the victim
• Impact of the injuries on the victim’s life
• Whether the victim required surgery or follow-up treatments
• Whether the injuries and disabilities are temporary or permanent (typically, recovery must take at least six months)
• The level of disability
• The nature of a disfigurement
• The nature of the impairment
• The amount of economic damages

The Per Diem Method

A second method for calculating pain and suffering damages in Texas is known as the per diem method. This method assigns a specific dollar amount for every day the victim spends healing from their injuries. A typical amount is the amount a victim would have made had they worked that day. The victim is paid the per diem amount every day from the time of the injury until they reach the date of maximum medical improvement. The per diem method is more common in cases with a precise recovery date.

Pain And Suffering – What To Do Next

Pain and suffering damages in Texas are complicated and technical to calculate. You should hire an experienced attorney, such as those at The Fulgham Hampton Personal Injury Attorneys, to assist you with your car accident case that may involve pain and suffering.

What Is “Mental Anguish” In Texas?

Mental anguish is a type of legal damages that can occasionally be recovered in a very severe car accident case. Mental anguish is a technical concept and can be extremely difficult to prove, so an experienced attorney is critical to recovery in a case involving mental anguish.

Mental anguish can be defined as severe psychological or mental pain resulting from a traumatic experience.

Mental anguish is often associated with physical injury; however, in some cases, it may exist without physical injury – most commonly in the case of the wrongful death of a loved one. If you suffered a significant injury or the death of a loved one due to a car accident in Texas, contact the lawyers at The Fulgham Hampton Personal Injury Attorneys to find out if you might be able to pursue damages for mental anguish.

What Is “Disfigurement” In Texas?

“Disfigurement” is a legal term of art. Disfigurement occurs when someone’s beauty or appearance is impaired or becomes unsightly or deformed. Typical forms of disfigurement are scars, burns, and missing or contorted limbs. Damages are derived from the embarrassment and the desire to conceal the disfigurement.  The damages are calculated from the date of the accident causing the disfigurement until the date when the disfigurement ends. Since it is rarely known when or if a disfigurement will end, this form of damages is highly speculative. It is strongly recommended that you seek the advice of a lawyer to help you determine if damages for disfigurement are something worth pursuing.

What Is “Physical Impairment” In Texas?

“Physical impairment” is a legal term of art. It is a physical limitation that causes a loss of enjoyment in one’s life. This impairment may mean you can no longer participate in things you once enjoyed, such as sports, hobbies, or other activities. This impairment must go beyond pain and suffering and mental anguish – it must be a separate, distinct, and substantial loss. Physical impairment does not apply to an activity the victim did to earn a living – that is covered by lost wages.

The accident cannot be your fault to collect for physical impairment, and the impairment condition cannot be pre-existing. Hiring a skilled Texas attorney, such as those at The Fulgham Hampton Personal Injury Attorneys, will give you the best chance to prove physical impairment after a car accident and recover the damages you deserve.

What Is “Loss of Consortium” In Texas?

“Loss of Consortium” is a legal term of art. Loss of consortium may include the loss of love, companionship, affection, intimacy, care, comfort, assistance, protection, and moral support by a family member. In Texas, loss of consortium claims can be made by spouses, children, and parents. Siblings, stepparents, and stepchildren cannot claim loss of consortium. A parent can only recover for loss of consortium for a child if the child dies – not if the child is injured.

If your spouse, child, or parent is seriously injured or killed in a car accident, you may have a claim for loss of consortium. Contact a skilled and compassionate lawyer at The Fulgham Hampton Personal Injury Attorneys to explore your options at this very trying time.

What Are “Lost Wages” In Texas?

“Lost wages” is a legal term of art. It describes money you will not be able to earn due to the injuries you sustained in a car accident. Lost wages may include:

• Base pay or regular wages or salary that you missed due to having to take time off to heal from your car accident injuries
• Overtime that you usually worked, or would have been required to work if you were able
• Sick days and vacation days you otherwise would have earned if you had been able to work
• Bonuses or commissions that you should have been paid
• Expected salary increases and other raises that you were on track for and would have earned if you had been able to work normally
• Contributions to retirement funds you missed out on because you were not able to work

Proving lost wages can be a complicated and difficult process. Lost wages are especially difficult to prove in the case of self-employment, such as freelancers, independent contractors, small business owners, entrepreneurs, and gig workers.

“Lost earning capacity” or “diminished earning capacity” refers to future lost wages. This is, once again, a complicated calculation that may be based on the following:

• Your job
• The level or title you have achieved at your job
• The level of skill required for your particular job
• Your past wages, salary, or earnings
• The market rate for your particular job
• Your life expectancy

An experienced lawyer at The Fulgham Hampton Personal Injury Attorneys will help guide you through this process to make sure you are awarded every dollar of lost wages you are entitled to.

Cell Phone Use While Driving In Texas

You never want to be distracted while operating a car or other motor vehicle. Cell phones are a significant source of distraction for drivers everywhere. Texas has some unique laws regarding cell phone use while driving. These laws include:

• Drivers under 18 are not allowed to use cell phones while driving
• Drivers with a learner’s permit are not allowed to use cell phones while driving
• School bus drivers are not allowed to use cell phones while driving (if there are children on the bus)
• Drivers are not allowed to use cell phones while in a school zone
• No texting while driving by any driver

Many cities and towns in Texas have even stricter rules regarding cell phone use while driving – some forbid cell phone use by all drivers. A skilled personal injury lawyer at The Fulgham Hampton Personal Injury Attorneys will be able to tell you if any of these specific laws apply to your car accident case.

Texting While Driving And Distracted Driving In Texas

As stated above, texting while driving is illegal everywhere in Texas. It is illegal to drive while distracted in other ways as well. Some types of distracted driving that may come up in your Texas car accident case are:

• Texting while driving
• Watching videos on any device
• Playing games on a cell phone or other device
• Talking on a cell phone while driving – even if the driver is over 18 and has a full license, it is still a problem to be distracted by a phone conversation while driving
• A driver distracted by a GPS device
• Eating or drinking while driving
• Applying makeup while driving
• Reaching for something in another part of the car while driving
• Adjusting internal buttons or dials while driving (such as the volume or frequency on the radio)

If any of these or other distractions contributed to you being hit in a car accident, then a car accident attorney at The Fulgham Hampton Personal Injury Attorneys will work hard to make sure the at-fault driver will be held accountable, and you will be appropriately compensated.

Reckless Driving And Aggressive Driving In Texas

Reckless driving includes aggressive driving, drunk driving, and driving while texting. Aggressive driving is deliberate unsafe driving performed with bad intentions or a disregard for safety.  “Road rage” (extreme, violent anger caused by frustration or stress related to driving a vehicle) may be a cause of aggressive driving. Some examples of aggressive and reckless driving are:

• Speeding (exceeding the posted speed limit or driving too fast for current road conditions)
• Tailgating (following another vehicle too closely)
• Not stopping at traffic lights, stop signs, or crosswalks
• Changing lanes too quickly or aggressively, especially without turn signals
• Blocking traffic lanes to prevent other drivers from passing
• Driving on the shoulder or otherwise disregarding the marked lanes
• Not yielding when required by law or for safety

Collisions resulting from reckless or aggressive driving are not “accidents” in the traditional sense. These drivers, especially, need to be held accountable for their irresponsible actions and poor decisions. If you are a victim of reckless or aggressive driving in Texas, contact the The Fulgham Hampton Personal Injury Attorneys right away to hold the reckless or aggressive driver responsible.

Drunk Driving And Intoxicated Driving In Texas

Driving while intoxicated is illegal in Texas.  Intoxication is defined as “not having normal use of mental or physical faculties.” This intoxication may be caused by alcohol, other drugs, or controlled substances. Having a blood alcohol concentration level of 0.08 or above is considered intoxicated. If you are the victim of a car crash caused by a drunk or otherwise intoxicated person, it is essential that you contact an experienced attorney to make sure you receive maximum compensation.

Asleep At The Wheel – Drowsy Driving Or Fatigued Driving In Texas

Fatigued driving is a violation of the Texas Transportation Code. Fatigued driving, also called drowsy driving, is a huge problem, especially in Texas. Commercial drivers, including those who drive huge semi-trucks, are at exceptionally high risk for fatigued driving. Signs of fatigued driving include:

• Tailgating (following too closely)
• Missing exits
• Drifting out of lanes (either into another lane or onto the shoulder)
• Difficulty focusing (such as a wandering mind and daydreaming)
• Frequent blinking and yawning
• Generally not paying attention to the road

The consequences of fatigued driving include:

• Lower reaction times
• Poor decisions and bad judgment
• Drifting into other cars, potentially causing a serious accident
• Drifting onto the shoulder, potentially hitting a pedestrian, or causing property damage
• Missing (not noticing and therefore not reacting to) traffic signs and signals

If a fatigued driver hits you, there may be strong evidence that the other driver was at fault, and you are entitled to compensation. A personal injury attorney at The Fulgham Hampton Personal Injury Attorneys have experience handling these cases and will help ensure you receive the compensation you deserve.

Rear-End Collisions In Texas

In most cases, rear-end collisions are found to be caused by the car that is behind. However, there are exceptions. Many factors can contribute to a driver rear-ending the car in front of them, such as:

• Distracted driving, including texting while driving or looking at things out the side window, such as an accident or construction
• Excessive speed
• Failure to observe or take into account traffic conditions
• Road construction
• Tailgating (following too closely)
• Intoxicated driving
• Fatigued driving
• Reckless driving
• Poor weather conditions (such as high winds, slick or icy roads, or low visibility due to heavy fog or heavy rain)

Neck and back injuries, sometimes severe, are typical results of rear-end collisions. These injuries can result in expensive, ongoing treatments and years of pain. An experienced auto accident attorney, such as those at The Fulgham Hampton Personal Injury Attorneys, will make sure you are fully compensated for these serious injuries.

Head-On Collisions In Texas

Head-on collisions, which occur when two vehicles meet front-end to front-end, are often the most dangerous auto accidents. They can cause severe injuries to both drivers and all passengers. Some common causes of these scary accidents include:

• Driving the wrong way on a road or highway
• Passing improperly (especially on a two-lane road)
• Falling asleep while driving
• Driving while intoxicated
• Reckless driving
• Loss of control (perhaps due to speeding or reckless driving, poorly maintained roads, or poor weather conditions)
• Mechanical failure of the vehicle

Many different injuries, including grievous injuries and death, can result from an auto accident.  Experienced car accident lawyers, such as those at The Fulgham Hampton Personal Injury Attorneys, will ensure you are fully compensated for any injuries or the death of a loved one resulting from a head-on car collision.

Sideswipe Collisions In Texas

Sideswipe collisions occur when two cars make contact from broad-side to broad-side.  This type of car wreck can occur in traffic while moving or when one vehicle is stationary. It can be extremely difficult to prove fault in a sideswipe collision. You will need a skilled attorney to make your case to ensure you are appropriately compensated in a sideswipe accident.

Rollover Accidents In Texas

Rollover car accidents are extremely dangerous, and people involved in rollover accidents are often severely injured. In a motor vehicle accident of this nature, victims who are not properly restrained with a seatbelt may be ejected from the vehicle as it rolls. These injuries may include broken bones, traumatic brain injuries, spinal injuries, internal organ damage, lacerations, crushing injuries, and even lost limbs. Rollover accidents are relatively rare but account for a disproportionate number of driving fatalities. Unlike most other car accidents, rollover accidents involve only one vehicle in many cases. SUVs and vans are more susceptible to rollover accidents because they are relatively top-heavy. Not wearing a seatbelt in a rollover accident dramatically increases the risk of death. Many rollover accidents occur in rural areas with higher posted speed limits. Some factors that may cause or contribute to a rollover accident are:

• Swerving to avoid hitting something in the road
• Hitting a curb, guardrail, or another obstacle at high speed
• Veering off the road, especially into softer ground, may cause one tire to stop while the other tires remain in motion
• Driving in an unfamiliar area, especially if the road and hazards are poorly marked
• Weather – icy or slippery roads, sometimes causing the driver to overcorrect
• Driver error
• Mechanical issues in the vehicle
• Tire defects or damage
• Overloading the vehicle
• Speeding
• Drunk driving or driving under the influence
• Falling asleep at the wheel

If you are involved in a rollover accident and sustained serious injuries, contact personal injury attorneys at The Fulgham Hampton Personal Injury Attorneys to discuss your options.

Big Truck Accidents In Texas

Eighteen-wheelers, big rigs, semi-trucks, semi-trailers, semis, trailer trucks, tractor-trailers, semi-tractor-trailers – these huge vehicles have many different names. No matter what you call them, there will likely be much damage if you get in an accident with one. Other large vehicles involved in accidents include dump trucks, construction vehicles, delivery trucks, shipping vehicles, utility trucks, tow trucks, and trucks pulling trailers. Some common causes or contributing factors to accidents involving big trucks include:

• Brake or other mechanical failures of the vehicle
• Driver fatigue – often, these drivers work long hours with little or no sleep
• Improper loading of the vehicle, potentially in violation of safety standards
• Speeding or other reckless or negligent driving
• Drunk or intoxicated driving

In most cases, these vehicles are owned and operated by large companies responsible for properly maintaining the vehicles and hiring, training, and supervising responsible drivers. These companies certainly have insurance and likely have a great deal of experience negotiating accident settlements. This is why you need an experienced advocate, like the attorneys at The Fulgham Hampton Personal Injury Attorneys, fighting for you in these cases.

What If One Of The Cars Involved In The Accident In Texas Was A Ride Share?

If one of the cars involved in the accident, either the car you were riding in or the other car, is a rideshare vehicle (such as an Uber or Lyft), you may have a claim against the rideshare company. Although the rideshare company may have deeper pockets than an individual, they also have a team of lawyers working for them and an incentive to avoid paying claims. If you are involved in an accident with a rideshare vehicle, it is especially important that you have a highly skilled lawyer on your side. You should contact the attorneys at The Fulgham Hampton Personal Injury Attorneys right away.

Fatal Accidents And Wrongful Death In Texas

If you have lost a loved one to a fatal car accident, you will want a compassionate and skilled advocate in your corner to help guide you through the complex process of holding the responsible party accountable and receiving compensation. The attorneys at The Fulgham Hampton Personal Injury Attorneys have experience with these unfortunate cases and are standing by to assist you.

Texas has what is known as a Survival Statute. This law can make it easier for an estate to recover damages such as medical bills, lost wages, and funeral costs.

Wrongful death lawsuits may only be brought by the deceased’s spouse, children, or parents. Other relations, such as siblings, cannot bring a wrongful death lawsuit. Potential damages in a wrongful death car accident case may include:

• Funeral and burial expenses
• Medical bills
• Pain and suffering (mental anguish and grief) of the survivors
• Loss of financial support and future earnings of the deceased
• Employment benefits
• Loss of companionship

Make sure you do not lose what you are entitled to. The statute of limitations for wrongful death cases may be shorter than you realize. Consult with an attorney right away to protect your case.

What If The Accident Is Partially My Fault?

In Texas, if you are equally or less at fault than the other driver, you may still be able to recover some damages. It is very important that you do not admit any fault until you have had the opportunity to consult with an attorney. Every accident involves many complicated factors, many of which are beyond your control. Therefore, you should not say you are at fault until you have had the time to thoroughly consider all factors with the help of a trained advocate such as the attorneys at The Fulgham Hampton Personal Injury Attorneys. Do not make any statements that could be incriminating at the scene of the accident or to the other driver’s insurance company at any time.

What If I Was Not Wearing A Seatbelt At The Time Of The Accident?

Texas law requires all drivers and passengers of a car to wear a seatbelt. If you were not wearing a seatbelt at the time of the accident, it might affect the amount of money you are entitled to due to a concept known as contributory negligence. You may still be entitled to some damages, so you should consult with an attorney to determine if you have a claim.

What Happens If I Am Hit By An Uninsured Driver In Texas?

In Texas, every driver is required by law to carry car insurance. However, not every driver does. If you are involved in an accident with a driver without insurance, you must rely on your insurance for compensation. You can buy uninsured or underinsured motorist insurance to protect yourself from this scenario. You may be able to sue the uninsured driver for any out-of-pocket expenses, but a judgment against an uninsured motorist is likely to be difficult to collect. The attorneys at The Fulgham Hampton Personal Injury Attorneys are available to help you understand your options if an uninsured driver hits you.

What If I Did Not Have Insurance At The Time Of The Accident In Texas?

Driving without insurance is illegal in Texas. Aside from the legalities, it is not a good idea because if you are at fault for an accident without insurance, you will have to pay out of pocket. If you are not at fault, though, you still may be able to collect damages against the other driver even if you did not have insurance at the time of the accident. An attorney can advise you as to whether or not you may have a claim even if you did not have insurance at the time of your accident.

What Happens If I Am The Victim Of A Hit-And-Run In Texas?

If another driver hits your car and then drives away, you are the victim of a hit-and-run. Hit-and-runs are against the law. Although you are entitled to compensation from a hit-and-run driver, these drivers are often tough to identify. If you are the victim of a hit-and-run, you should notify the police immediately. If possible, write down the license plate number and identifying details of the car (type, color, make, model, unique characteristics) and driver (hair color, facial hair, age, gender, race, any other identifying characteristics). If the driver cannot be identified, you may still be able to be compensated through your own insurance company. Contact the attorneys at The Fulgham Hampton Personal Injury Attorneys to discuss your options for hit-and-run accidents in Texas.

What Records Do I Need For My Car Accident Case In Texas?

After your car accident, it is essential to collect evidence and gather information. You should keep these records together and have them available when you first meet with your attorney. These records include:

• The date and exact time and location of the accident
• Photographs of your car highlighting the damage
• Photographs of the other vehicles involved
• Photographs and videos of the accident scene, including some that illustrate the light and weather at the time of the accident and some that show any relevant traffic signs, signals, or construction
• Photographs of your injuries
• A written statement describing the accident as you remember it, written as soon after the accident as possible and with as much detail as possible
• All relevant medical records
• Any estimates or bills for repairs to your car
• If necessary, bills for having your car towed and for renting a replacement car
• A copy of the police report or accident report (or at least the officer’s name and a report number)
• Witness statements (including names and contact information for witnesses), if available
• Names and contact information of other parties involved (this could be a photograph of their driver’s licenses)
• Your insurance information
• Insurance information for anyone else involved in the accident (this could be a photograph of their insurance cards)
• Any other relevant photos or documents

These records can be vital to the success of your case. Make sure you share them with your attorney and keep your copies in a safe place until at least the conclusion of your case.

What If I Am A Passenger In A Car Accident In Texas?

If you are a passenger in a car accident in Texas, you can file a claim against the other car’s driver if they were at fault. In some cases, you may have a claim against the driver of the car you were in. It is also possible that your insurance may cover some out-of-pocket expenses. These claims can be technical, so it is best to consult an attorney, so you know all your options.

Is There A Deadline For Filing A Car Accident Lawsuit In Texas?

Generally, you must file a lawsuit for personal injury and property damage in Texas within two years of the car accident date. This is known as a two-year statute of limitations. Missing this deadline may mean you lose your ability to file a claim or collect damages. This is why it is essential to contact a lawyer promptly after being in a car accident in Texas.

Lawyers For Car Accident Victims

Car accidents can be extremely serious and traumatic events. If you are seriously injured in a car accident in Fort Worth TX or elsewhere in the state, you may be entitled to monetary compensation. Getting this compensation can be a time-consuming and challenging process. The laws surrounding car accidents can be complicated and challenging for a layperson to sort through. This is why you want an expert in the law, such as the attorneys at The Fulgham Hampton Personal Injury Attorneys, to assist you through this arduous process. To learn more, reach out to the Fort Worth car accident lawyers at The Fulgham Hampton Personal Injury Attorneys by calling 817-697-4400 or contacting us online.

How Soon After an Accident Must I File a Lawsuit?

You must act right away after suffering injuries or other damages from a car accident. There’s a statute of limitations in Texas that limits the time you must file a lawsuit against the negligent driver. Therefore, after securing your health, your next goal should be to work with a Fort Worth car accident attorney to begin legal proceedings. The sooner you start working with an attorney, the better of an outcome you’re likely to receive.

Compensation for Injuries in Fort Worth Car Accident Claims

When inconsiderate, inattentive or unsafe drivers cause serious motor vehicle collisions, it can mean severe debilitating injuries including spinal cord injuries resulting in paralysis, traumatic brain injury impairing mental functioning, amputation of limbs, broken bones, and even fatalities. When you suffer this type of severe injury, our law firm seeks compensation for economic out of pocket losses and more intangible losses of personal injury victims.

Work With a Fort Worth Car Accident Attorney to Represent Your Best Interests

Car accidents happen when Texans least expect and disrupt the well-being of everyone involved. Because auto accidents are inevitable, it’s crucial to find the right lawyer that can guide you through the car accident claim or lawsuit process. By working with the Fulgham Hampton Personal Injury Attorneys, you’ll have a stress-free time receiving the compensation you deserve.

Don’t try to recover damages from your automobile accident alone. An experienced law group will maximize the amount you recover while negotiating with insurance companies on your behalf. If you or a loved one were recently involved in a car accident, begin the journey to recovery by contacting us.

Speak to an Experienced Fort Worth Car Accident Attorney Today

We will compassionately and zealously advocate for your rights while seeking the best possible outcome. We represent injury victims in Fort Worth and the surrounding areas of Tarrant County. Contact us today for a FREE consultation at  (817) 697-4400 or visit our website.