A car accident is an overwhelming event that may have life-altering consequences. While the first thing you need to do after being in a car accident is to seek medical attention, finding a good car injury lawyer should also be at the top of your list. A car accident injury lawyer in San Antonio will understand Texas’ court system and laws, which is essential to help you get fair compensation.
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6 Benefits of Hiring a Car Accident Injury Lawyer in San Antonio
1. They Will Help You Understand Your Rights and the Next Steps
After a car accident, you may feel confused and tired, and you can even be in pain. But acting fast after an accident is essential. The statute of limitations for car accidents in Texas is two years for personal injury, property damage, or wrongful death (although wrongful death claims can be paused for one year).
Having a top San Antonio car accident lawyer by your side will help you better understand where you stand, the actions you need to take, and your chances of winning a claim. Thew will also help you understand the amount of compensation that you are entitled to get, which can include:
- Loss of wages or income
- Pain and suffering
- Medical expenses (including physical therapy)
- Loss of consortium
- Car repairs or replacement
2. They Will Gather All the Evidence Necessary to Support Your Claim
Through an investigation, your lawyer will help you gather evidence such as:
- Video surveillance footage
- Witness statements
- Medical records
- Police reports
It is crucial to understand that getting access to such evidence without knowledge of the law may be difficult and time-consuming but, in some cases, impossible.
3. They Will Help You Negotiate with Insurance Companies
Insurance adjusters need to protect the insurance company they represent. Often, they will try to find a way to deny your claim or offer you compensation beneath what you are legally entitled to get. Car accident attorneys understand insurance laws, administrative processes, and your rights. They will help you gather and process information to negotiate a fair amount or appeal a denied claim.
4. They Will Help You Understand Your Settlement Options
The party at fault for the accident will likely try to negotiate a settlement to avoid going to court (and all the extra expenses associated with the court process). Never agree to any payment without consulting with your attorney, as you may be getting a less-than-fair sum. Your attorney will help you ponder the settlement offer against all your expenses and losses and counteroffer on your behalf.
5. They Will Help You Prove Liability
Insurance adjusters are among the first to be on the accident scene, and their report is crucial in determining fault and damages. However, if your case moves forward to court, you will also need to prove liability.
Four elements are considered in determining liability: you were owed a duty by the at-fault party, they breached that duty, you sustained injuries because of said breach, and you have suffered losses due to your injuries.
6. If Necessary, They Will File a Court Case and Represent You
Most car accident claims are settled outside of court. It’s usually more accessible, faster, and less expensive for both parties. However, if you don’t reach an agreement with the other party, you’ll need to take your case to court. It’s imperative to have a good lawyer by your side to file the case and represent you during the process correctly.
What If the Accident Was Your Fault?
If the accident was your fault, hiring a lawyer is even more vital, as you could be liable for substantial money sums, and you could risk going to jail. A good lawyer will help you negotiate a settlement with the injured party to avoid a court process. If your case reaches court, a good lawyer may differentiate between fines and administrative sanctions and face jail time.
How to Choose a Good Car Injury Attorney
Choosing a good lawyer is essential to get a fair settlement and fair compensation from insurance companies. There are hundreds of lawyers who claim to be experts in car accident laws, but the best ones share some essential characteristics:
- They have a proven track record of getting good settlements/winning court cases for their clients and can provide references
- They have an organized office and staff working for them
- They provide clear communication and help you understand your situation from the first steps
- They are clear about their fees
The consequences of a car accident should never be taken lightly by any of the parties. Getting proper counseling and representation from the start is the best way to ensure a good outcome. Take your time, ask for recommendations, and set up a few appointments before making a final decision. Remember to always keep written records of all your meetings and agreements.
