Texas Car Accident Attorney in Houston: A fight against negligent drivers
Houston, Harris County, with its sprawling urban landscape and bustling highways, witnesses a significant number of car accidents each year. According to the Texas Crash Records Information System (CRIS) in Houston, Harris County, there were about 133,506 in 2022. These accidents not only lead to physical injuries but also bring about legal complexities for those involved. Let Walter J. Pink & Associates, a team of Houston Car Accident Attorneys, help get your life back on track and get you the money you deserve.
What to do if you were hit in a car accident?
1. Stay on the scene and call the police: Often times police will come to the scene and write and accident report assigning fault in the form of a ticket or citation to a driver. These accident reports help your case.
2. Exchange information immediately with the drivers of all vehicles involved: If the other drivers are not aggressive or dangerous then get their information immediately because they can also decide to just change their mind and leave before police arrive. If they refuse to give you their information either wait for the police to arrive or take pictures of their license plate, their vehicle, and their face if you can.
3. Worry about your safety: If you feel any discomfort then do not be afraid to ask for an ambulance or EMS to come to the scene.
3. Document EVERYTHING: Take pictures of the damages to your vehicle, their vehicle, any physical damage you have, you can even write down notes of what happened right before the accident. Any information you can document will greatly help your case.
3. Call Walter J. Pink & Associates!: Once you are safe contact a law firm so that they can get you set up with the proper treatment and start the process of getting you compensation. DO NOT call the other driver’s insurance company and file a claim or make statement without first consulting with an attorney.
3. Let your attorneys work for you!: Once we are involved, make sure to not make any posts on social media, talk to your accident with the other driver or the insurance company, attend all your medical appointments, stay in contact with any doctors involved, and especially stay in contact with your attorney.
Understanding Car Accidents in Houston
Car accidents can range from minor fender benders to catastrophic collisions. The causes can be multifaceted:
Distracted Driving: This includes texting, talking on the phone, or any activity that diverts attention from driving.
Drunk Driving: Operating a vehicle under the influence of alcohol or drugs.
Speeding: Driving over the posted speed limits or too fast for road conditions.
Weather Conditions: Rain, fog, and other adverse weather conditions can lead to accidents if drivers are not cautious.
Types of Car Accident
Head-on- Collisions - The most dangerous and fatal accident.
Rear-end/Fender Bender – The most common accident, usually occurring in traffic, stop-and-go streets and are usually caused by distracted drivers.
Single Car Accidents – When only one car is involved. Even though there is only one vehicle involved it still may not be the drivers fault, unreasonable road conditions and mechanical failures may be the cause.
Hit-and-Run Accidents – Accidents in which one of the drivers leaves the scene before exchanging information.
Uninsured/Underinsured Motorist Accidents – Even though state law mandates that everyone carry insurance, there are still many drivers that have no insurance.
Vehicle Defect Accidents – Accidents caused by mechanical or vehicle failures.
Drunk Driving/Drugged Driving – Accidents caused by individuals under the influence of a substance. Accidents can even be caused by individuals on prescription drugs.
Rollover Accidents – Accidents that usually involved bigger vehicles (trucks and SUVs), however can also occur with smaller vehicles as high speeds.
Rideshare/Uber/Lyft Accidents – Accidents where you are a passenger with a driver this is a contractor to larger corporation. The distinction makes these accidents not as straight forward as if you were a passenger in a personal vehicle.
Passenger Accidents – As a passenger in a vehicle that was involved in an accident, you can pursue a claim against the other driver or even your driver.
City Bus/Public Transport Accident – Accidents as a passenger on a mode of public transportation.
Motorcycle Accidents – Very destructive accidents due to the lack of safety and increased risk of severe injury that comes with operating a motorcycle at high speeds.
Legal Implications of Houston Car Accidents
Houston, and the entire state of Texas, operates under a "fault" model. This means:
The person responsible for causing the car accident is liable for any resulting harm.
Victims can file a claim with the at-fault driver's insurance company or pursue a personal injury lawsuit against the driver.
Potential Compensation After a Houston Car Accident
Victims of car accidents in Houston may be entitled to various forms of compensation:
Medical Expenses: Covers hospital bills, prescription medications, rehabilitation, and future medical costs.
Lost Wages: Compensation for lost income and potential future earnings.
Pain and Suffering: Compensation for physical pain and emotional distress.
Property Damage: Covers the cost of vehicle repairs or replacement.
Wrongful Death: In cases where accidents lead to fatalities, families may seek compensation for funeral expenses, loss of companionship, and more.
The Role of a Houston Car Accident Attorney
Navigating the aftermath of a car accident requires the mastery of a skilled attorney:
Case Evaluation: An experienced attorney can assess the specifics of your case, identifying potential avenues for compensation.
Evidence Collection: From police reports to medical records and witness testimonies, an attorney ensures all relevant evidence is gathered.
Negotiation with Insurance Companies: Insurance companies often aim to minimize payouts. An attorney can negotiate on your behalf, ensuring you receive a fair settlement.
Court Representation: If a fair settlement isn't reached, a defense attorney can represent you in court, advocating for your rights and interests.
In Conclusion
Car accidents in Houston can lead to significant physical, emotional, and financial burdens. Understanding the legal implications, potential compensations, and the importance of brilliant legal representation is crucial. With the guidance of a dedicated Houston car accident attorney, victims can navigate the complexities of the legal system, ensuring that their rights are upheld and that they receive the compensation they deserve. Walter J. Pink & Associates can get you compensation and the justice you deserve in Houston, Harris County, Sugar Land, Missouri City, Richmond, Fort Bend County, Pearland, Brazoria County, Galveston, Galveston County, Austin, Travis County, Dallas, Dallas County, Amarillo, Lubbock, Montgomery County, or anywhere else in this great state of Texas. State of Texas, Houston, Galveston, Fort Bench County, Austin, San Antonio, Dallas, or anywhere else in the Great Lone Star State.
