You may wonder whether you should hire an attorney after a motor vehicle accident in Galveston, Texas. Not everyone requires legal representation. However, it never hurts to schedule a free consultation with a lawyer to discuss the specifics of your crash.
You may be surprised by what you learn by speaking with an experienced car accident attorney in Galveston. For example, do you know the types of damages you can pursue compensation for under Texas law? Do you know how to prove liability? What will you do if the other driver or their insurer tries to blame you for causing the collision?
Below, we discuss the advantages of legal representation after a car accident in Galveston and how an attorney can help you obtain a higher payout.
A Thorough Investigation of Your Collision
If you hire an attorney, you’ll have an advocate to investigate your car accident. They’ll start the investigation as soon as possible to ensure they obtain evidence while it’s fresh.
For example, your Galveston personal injury lawyer might do the following:
- Speak with you to get your side of what happened
- Visit the crash scene to take photos and videos
- Obtain a copy of your Texas crash report
- Request surveillance footage that captured your accident
- Interview eyewitnesses and other parties
- Collect documentary evidence, such as medical records
- Consult expert witnesses if complex issues arise
An in-depth investigation is often pivotal to the success of a car accident claim. Without it, you may overlook crucial evidence, leading to a weaker case. A seasoned attorney will know what to look for and how to prove liability and damages.
An Accurate Calculation of Your Damages
Under Texas law, car accident victims are entitled to compensation for their economic and non-economic damages, including:
- Medical bills for any emergency services and treatment
- Future medical expenses
- Lost income and job benefits
- Reduced earning capacity
- Physical therapy
- Emotional distress
- Inconvenience
- Pain and suffering
- Loss of companionship
- Reasonable out-of-pocket expenses
- Physical impairment or disability
Many of these damages—such as non-economic and future losses—are difficult to quantify. A skilled Galveston personal injury attorney will know how to identify and assess your damages. They may consult financial experts if your case is particularly complex.
You get one chance to pursue compensation. Without legal representation, you risk walking away with less money than you deserve. An attorney will ensure that you’re fully compensated for the full extent of your losses.
An Experienced Advocate To Negotiate With Insurance Adjusters
Once your attorney has calculated your damages, they’ll typically send a demand letter to the at-fault driver’s auto insurance company. This document outlines what happened, the legal arguments and your damages. It also initiates the negotiation process.
An insurance adjuster will be assigned to your claim. They’ll typically respond to the demand letter with a settlement offer, which will likely be far less than you deserve. There may be many rounds of back-and-forth communications.
The adjuster may try to shift some of the blame to you, the car accident victim. In doing so, they’re attempting to use Texas’s modified comparative fault statute in their favor.
Under this law, your compensation can be reduced or completely barred, depending on your level of blame. This is where having an experienced Galveston car accident lawyer can make or break your case. Your lawyer will request proof of your alleged fault and protect your right to fair compensation.
Most Texas car accident claims are resolved through negotiations, with a settlement agreement outlining the agreed-upon terms. However, some cases proceed to the litigation stage.
Legal Representation in Court, If Necessary
If the insurance company refuses to offer a fair settlement or the Texas statute of limitations is approaching, your attorney may file a personal injury lawsuit in court. You will likely engage in discovery, such as attending a deposition or exchanging documentary evidence.
You may still reach an agreement at any time during the discovery phase. However, if you don’t, your case may proceed to trial. Your attorney will represent you throughout this legal process and help you understand what to expect.
Schedule a Free Initial Consultation With a Car Accident Lawyer in Galveston, TX
All Texas car accident cases are unique. You may not require an attorney’s assistance. However, it’s wise to schedule a free case evaluation with an attorney (or a few). That way, you will have the tools needed to make an informed decision on how to proceed.
AltonTodd is the founder of The Law Firm of Alton C. Todd Personal Injury Lawyers, a personal injury law firm in Galveston. His legal team has over 58 years of experience representing accident and injury victims throughout Texas. Contact them today to schedule a free initial consultation.
