Have you been involved in a car accident and are now searching for an “Attorney Near Me Car Accident”? If you’ve been injured in a car wreck in Houston, Texas, and it wasn’t your fault, you may be entitled to significant financial compensation. The car accident attorneys at Attorney Brian White Personal Injury Lawyers, serving Houston and surrounding areas, are here to help you navigate this challenging time and fight for the substantial damages you deserve for your medical bills, lost income, and pain and suffering.
Our Houston car accident lawyers are led by a Board Certified civil trial specialist and have a reputation for achieving outstanding results for car accident victims and their families. We are committed to standing up to powerful insurance companies and at-fault parties, and we have a proven track record of winning millions of dollars in life-changing compensation for our clients.
We have successfully recovered tens of millions of dollars for individuals injured in various types of accidents, including car accidents, motorcycle accidents, truck accidents, slip and fall incidents, and cases involving wrongful death and brain injuries. Our results speak volumes about our dedication and expertise.
Don’t hesitate to reach out for help. Contact our Houston law offices, conveniently located throughout the city, or call us at (713) 500-5000 to schedule a free consultation today. We are your local “attorney near me car accident” resource, ready to assist you.
How Can a Local Houston Car Accident Attorney Near Me Assist After a Car Accident?
Experiencing a car accident in Houston can be a life-altering event. Whether the impact is minor or severe, seeking accountability from those responsible is crucial. This is where a local “attorney near me car accident” like Attorney Brian White Personal Injury Lawyers can be invaluable.
For decades, we have been dedicated advocates for car accident victims and their families throughout the Houston metropolitan area. Being local means we understand the specific challenges of navigating Houston roads and dealing with Texas insurance laws.
Our founding attorney, Brian White, holds Board Certification in civil trial law, a distinction held by only 3% of attorneys in Texas. This specialization underscores our deep expertise in handling car accident cases.
More importantly, we have a demonstrable history of success. Our skilled Houston legal team has secured tens of millions of dollars in settlements and verdicts for our clients. We are committed to providing each client with personalized, meticulous attention to their case, which includes:
If you’ve been injured due to someone else’s negligence, let our Houston car accident attorneys hold them responsible. Choose a local “attorney near me car accident” team with over 45 years of combined experience. We are here to support you when you need us most. Contact us now for a free, no-obligation case evaluation.
Why is Hiring a Car Accident Attorney Near Me Beneficial?
When you’re searching for an “attorney near me car accident”, you’re looking for more than just legal representation; you’re looking for local expertise and accessibility. Here’s why choosing a Houston car accident attorney near you is advantageous:
Insurance Companies Discourage Hiring a Car Accident Lawyer: Insurance adjusters aim to control the situation to their benefit. They are known for offering low settlements, hoping you’ll accept out of desperation. They have extensive knowledge of the claims process, while you likely do not. A local Houston accident lawyer levels the playing field, eliminating their inherent advantage.
Increased Likelihood of Winning and Higher Compensation: Statistics show that individuals who hire a car accident attorney are more likely to win their cases and receive significantly larger settlements than those who attempt to navigate the process alone.
Protection Against Blame-Shifting Tactics: The at-fault driver may attempt to evade responsibility by blaming you for the accident. A skilled attorney can preemptively address these tactics and protect your claim from being undermined by such blame games.
Independent Investigation to Uncover the Truth: While insurance companies conduct their own investigations, their primary goal is to minimize their payout. Hiring your own “attorney near me car accident” ensures an independent investigation is conducted to gather evidence that supports your case and accurately determines the cause of the accident.
Negotiating Fair Settlements and Resisting Pressure: Insurance adjusters are trained to pressure you into accepting a quick, low settlement to protect their company’s profits. They may exploit your stress and vulnerability to push you into accepting less than you deserve. Your Houston auto accident lawyer will act as your buffer, managing communications and skillfully negotiating for a settlement that fully compensates your losses.
If you’ve been injured in a car accident due to someone else’s fault, you are entitled to compensation. Hiring a local Houston, Texas car accident attorney is a crucial step in making that entitlement a reality.
What is the Cost of Hiring an “Attorney Near Me Car Accident”?
Concern about legal fees is a common reason why people hesitate to hire an “attorney near me car accident”. However, most Houston car accident attorneys, including Attorney Brian White Personal Injury Lawyers, operate on a contingency fee basis. This fee structure means you don’t pay unless we win your case.
Under a contingency fee agreement, your “attorney near me car accident” agrees to represent you in exchange for a percentage of the financial compensation they recover for you. This percentage typically ranges from 33% to 40% of your total recovery, depending on the complexity of the case and the law firm.
At Attorney Brian White Personal Injury Lawyers, we are confident in our ability to secure substantial compensation for your Texas car accident injuries. We are so confident that we handle all upfront costs associated with investigating, negotiating, and litigating your claim. You owe us nothing unless and until we successfully recover compensation for you.
This arrangement allows you to access top-tier legal representation from a Board Certified civil trial specialist without any financial risk. Contact our Houston, Texas law offices today for a free consultation to learn more about our contingency-based legal services and how we can help you.
Determining the Value of Your Car Accident Case with an Attorney Near Me
Determining the potential value of your car accident case early in the process can be complex. As every “attorney near me car accident” knows, each case is unique, and many factors influence the potential compensation.
However, answering the following questions can give you a preliminary understanding of your case’s worth:
- How severe are your car accident injuries?
- Is full recovery expected, or will there be long-term effects?
- Did pre-existing conditions worsen due to the accident?
- How long will it take to reach maximum medical improvement (MMI)?
- Are you experiencing lost income and will future earnings be affected?
- What are your current and anticipated out-of-pocket expenses related to the accident?
- What is the extent of vehicle damage – repairable or total loss?
- What emotional and psychological trauma have you endured?
Generally, the more serious your injuries and the greater the impact on your life, the higher the potential value of your injury case.
According to the National Safety Council, the average cost of a car accident with “possible” injuries was around $160,000 in 2019. For accidents resulting in “disabling” injuries, the average cost exceeded $1.2 million. These figures highlight the potential for significant compensation in serious car accident cases.
When Should I Contact an “Attorney Near Me Car Accident”?
It is crucial to contact an “attorney near me car accident” as soon as possible after a car crash. Prompt action offers several key advantages:
- Timely Investigation: The sooner your attorney can begin investigating, the better. Memories fade, evidence can be lost or compromised over time. Early intervention allows your attorney to gather crucial evidence, interview witnesses, and even visit the accident scene with experts if necessary.
- Focus on Recovery: Dealing with insurance claims and legal processes can be overwhelming and stressful, hindering your recovery. Hiring a local car accident lawyer from the outset allows you to concentrate on your physical and emotional healing, while your attorney manages the complexities of your claim.
- No Additional Cost for Early Engagement: Car accident attorneys in Texas, working on a contingency fee basis, are paid based on results, not hourly rates. Engaging an attorney early does not increase your legal costs but significantly enhances your chances of a successful outcome.
Attorney Brian White Personal Injury Lawyers is available 24/7 to take your call. We have multiple office locations across Houston for your convenience. Contact us today to understand your legal rights. Your initial consultation is always free.
Contact a Texas Car Accident Attorney Near You for a Free Consultation
Attorney Brian White Personal Injury Lawyers has seven convenient locations throughout Houston, TX, ensuring there is an “attorney near me car accident” readily accessible to you. Our main office is located at 3120 Southwest Freeway, Suite 350, Houston, TX 77098. Reach us at 713-500-5000 or fill out our online contact form for immediate assistance.
Should You Accept an Insurance Settlement Offer Without Consulting an “Attorney Near Me Car Accident”?
Generally, you should not accept any settlement offer from an insurance company without it being reviewed and negotiated by a qualified “attorney near me car accident”. Insurance companies prioritize their profits over your well-being.
Initial settlement offers are often significantly lower than the true value of your claim. Adjusters hope you will be tempted by quick cash and agree to settle, closing your claim swiftly and cheaply.
However, accepting an early settlement carries substantial risks. Once you accept, you waive your right to pursue further compensation, even if you later discover the settlement is insufficient to cover your long-term needs, such as ongoing medical care or lost earning capacity.
Having your Houston car accident attorney handle all communication and negotiation with the insurance company protects you from being taken advantage of. Your attorney will conduct a thorough investigation, prepare a strong demand letter supported by evidence and legal arguments, and tirelessly advocate for a settlement that accurately reflects the full value of your claim.
Immediate Steps After a Car Accident: Guidance from an “Attorney Near Me Car Accident”
The actions you take immediately following a car accident are critical and can significantly impact your health and any potential injury claim. Even seemingly minor missteps can jeopardize your well-being and financial recovery. Here are essential steps to take (and avoid) after a car crash, as advised by an “attorney near me car accident”:
- Stay at the Scene: Remain at or near the accident scene. If necessary for safety, move your vehicle to the side of the road.
- Report the Accident: Call and report the accident to the Houston Police Department. Texas law mandates reporting accidents involving injury, death, or property damage exceeding $1,000.
- Avoid Admitting Fault: Do not apologize or admit fault for the accident, even casually. Statements can be used against you later.
- Exchange Information: Exchange essential information with all involved parties, including names, contact details, license plate numbers, and insurance information.
- Gather Evidence: Document the scene thoroughly. Take photos and videos of vehicle damage, accident location, and surrounding conditions. Note down details, witness names, and any relevant observations.
- Seek Medical Attention Promptly: Seek medical evaluation as soon as possible, even if you feel initially uninjured. Some injuries may not be immediately apparent. Medical records are crucial for establishing the link between the accident and your injuries.
- Decline Recorded Statements: Do not provide a recorded statement to any insurance company without consulting your attorney. Insurers may use these statements to minimize or deny your claim. Provide only basic information and direct further inquiries to your lawyer.
Finally, contact an experienced “attorney near me car accident” immediately. The more experienced your attorney is in handling Houston car accident cases, the better equipped they will be to protect your rights and maximize your compensation.
Our car accident attorneys at Attorney Brian White Personal Injury Lawyers have extensive experience handling hundreds of car accident claims and lawsuits in Houston. We understand the tactics of insurance companies and have developed effective strategies to win financial compensation for our clients. Contact us today for a free initial consultation to review your case.
Common Causes of Car Accidents in Houston: Insights from a Local Attorney
Motor vehicle accidents are unfortunately frequent in Houston, Texas. Understanding the leading causes of these accidents, as explained by a local “attorney near me car accident”, can shed light on liability and prevention.
Distracted Driving: Texting and More
Texting while driving is exceptionally dangerous, diverting your focus entirely from the road. Studies have shown that texting drivers are significantly more likely to cause accidents than drunk drivers.
Other forms of distracted driving include eating, drinking, talking to passengers, dealing with children, reaching for objects, and even daydreaming. Any action that takes your hands, eyes, or mind away from driving constitutes distracted driving.
Drunk Driving: A Persistent Threat
In 2022, Houston witnessed over 2,300 reported drunk driving car accidents, averaging six DUI accidents daily. These accidents often result in serious injuries and fatalities.
Speeding: Fueled by Houston Traffic
Houston’s notorious traffic congestion often leads to drivers speeding to compensate for lost time. Speeding significantly increases the risk and severity of car accidents.
Other common causes of car accidents in Houston include failure to yield, aggressive driving, inexperienced drivers, night driving/poor visibility, dangerous road conditions, vehicle defects, and tire blowouts. A thorough investigation by your “attorney near me car accident” can identify all contributing factors to your accident and establish liability.
Texas: An At-Fault State for Car Accidents
Texas operates as an at-fault state for auto accidents. This means that in Texas, the insurance company of the driver who caused the accident is responsible for covering the damages of the injured party.
Unlike no-fault states where each driver’s insurance covers their own damages regardless of fault, in Texas, you have the right to file a claim against the at-fault driver’s insurance to recover your losses. If damages exceed the at-fault driver’s policy limits, you can pursue a lawsuit against the responsible driver and other liable parties.
Partial Fault in a Houston Car Accident: How an Attorney Near Me Can Help
In Texas, you can still recover compensation even if you are partially at fault for a car accident, as long as your fault is not greater than 50%. Texas employs a modified comparative fault system.
However, your compensation will be reduced proportionally to your percentage of fault. For example, if you are found to be 20% at fault, your total recoverable damages will be reduced by 20%. If your fault exceeds 50%, you are barred from recovering any compensation from other at-fault parties. An experienced “attorney near me car accident” can help minimize any assigned fault and protect your right to compensation.
Proving Negligence in a Houston Car Accident Lawsuit: The Role of Your Attorney
In most Houston car accident lawsuits, proving negligence is essential. Negligence, in legal terms, means that someone acted carelessly or unreasonably and that carelessness directly caused your injuries.
To establish negligence, your “attorney near me car accident” must prove four key elements: duty, breach of duty, causation, and damages. This means demonstrating that the at-fault driver had a duty to drive safely, they breached that duty through negligent actions, their negligence directly caused the accident, and you suffered actual damages as a result.
In Texas, you must prove these elements by a preponderance of the evidence, meaning it is more likely than not that negligence occurred. Your attorney will gather evidence, build a strong case, and present compelling arguments to meet this burden of proof and win your case.
Statute of Limitations for Car Accident Lawsuits in Texas: Act Promptly
The statute of limitations in Texas sets a time limit for filing a car accident lawsuit. In most cases, you have two years from the date of the accident to file a lawsuit seeking damages for your injuries.
Failing to file within this two-year period generally means you lose your right to sue for compensation. Certain exceptions may apply, such as cases involving government entities (which have shorter deadlines) or situations where the statute can be “tolled” (paused) under specific circumstances.
Consulting with an “attorney near me car accident” promptly is crucial to ensure you do not miss any deadlines and preserve your legal rights.
Recoverable Damages in a Houston Car Accident Case: What Compensation Can I Seek?
If you’ve been injured in a Houston car accident, you may be entitled to seek compensatory damages, which aim to cover your losses and make you whole again. These damages typically fall into two categories: economic and non-economic damages.
Economic Damages: Quantifiable Financial Losses
Economic damages are intended to cover the direct financial costs associated with your car accident injuries. These are tangible losses that can be documented and calculated, including:
- Medical expenses (past and future): Hospital bills, doctor visits, surgeries, medications, rehabilitation, medical devices.
- Lost income (past and future): Wages, salary, benefits, and lost earning capacity if injuries impact your ability to work.
- Property damage: Costs to repair or replace your damaged vehicle and personal property.
- Other out-of-pocket expenses: Ambulance fees, transportation costs to medical appointments, home modifications due to disability, and necessary nursing care.
- Funeral and burial expenses (in cases of wrongful death).
Non-Economic Damages: Addressing Intangible Losses
Non-economic damages compensate for the subjective, non-monetary losses resulting from your injuries. These are often referred to as “pain and suffering” damages and include:
- Physical pain and suffering: Compensation for the physical discomfort and pain endured due to your injuries.
- Mental anguish and emotional distress: Compensation for psychological trauma, anxiety, depression, PTSD, and emotional suffering caused by the accident.
- Disfigurement and scarring: Damages for permanent scarring or disfigurement resulting from the accident.
- Loss of quality of life: Compensation for diminished enjoyment of life and inability to participate in activities you once enjoyed.
- Loss of consortium: Damages to compensate a spouse for the loss of companionship, intimacy, and support due to their partner’s injuries.
- Inconvenience: Compensation for disruption to your daily life and routines.
Valuing Pain and Suffering Damages: Methods Used in Texas Courts
Valuing non-economic damages like pain and suffering is subjective and challenging. Texas courts and insurance companies often use two primary methods:
- Multiplier Method: This method assigns a multiplier (typically between 1 and 5, based on injury severity) to your total economic damages. This multiplier is then used to calculate the non-economic damages.
- Per Diem Method: This less common method assigns a daily dollar value to your pain and suffering, multiplied by the number of days from the accident until you reach maximum medical improvement (MMI).
Punitive Damages: When Are They Awarded?
Punitive damages are rarely awarded in car accident cases. Unlike compensatory damages, which aim to compensate the victim, punitive damages are intended to punish the at-fault party for egregious misconduct, such as drunk driving, intentional reckless behavior, or hit-and-run accidents. Punitive damages are awarded only in exceptional circumstances where the defendant’s actions are deemed particularly reprehensible.
How Different Types of Car Accidents Impact Your Case: Guidance from an Attorney Near Me
The specific type of car accident you are involved in can significantly impact your case. Each type of accident presents unique challenges and requires specific investigative and legal strategies, as your “attorney near me car accident” will understand.
For instance, investigating a rollover accident differs from a pedestrian accident. Expert witnesses and evidence required for a hit-and-run will vary from those needed in an intersection collision. Injuries sustained in a head-on collision are typically more severe and distinct from those in a fender-bender or rear-end collision.
Therefore, choosing an attorney with extensive experience handling diverse types of car accident cases is crucial. At Attorney Brian White Personal Injury Lawyers, we have experience representing clients injured in various accident scenarios, including:
- Rollover Accidents: Especially common with SUVs, these accidents can cause severe injuries. A Houston SUV Rollover Accident Lawyer can help you seek appropriate compensation.
- Rear-end Accidents: Among the most frequent types of collisions. A Houston Rear-End Collision Lawyer can assist in securing fair settlements in these cases.
- Fatal Car Accidents: In cases of fatal accidents, a Houston Fatal Car Accident Lawyer can help families pursue justice and compensation for their devastating loss.
- Head-on Collisions: Often resulting in catastrophic injuries or fatalities. A Houston Head-On Crashes Lawyer can fight for maximum compensation for victims of these severe accidents.
- Whiplash Injury Accidents: Whiplash is a common injury, particularly in rear-end and head-on collisions. A Houston Whiplash Injury Lawyer can help you obtain fair compensation for whiplash injuries.
- Single-Vehicle Accidents: Even in single-vehicle accidents, compensation may be possible if road defects or other factors contributed. A Houston Single Vehicle Car Accidents Lawyer can assess these complex cases.
- Car Accidents Due to Road Defects: If dangerous road conditions contributed to your accident, a Houston Road Defects Accidents Lawyer can help you pursue claims against responsible entities.
Since 2007, Attorney Brian White Personal Injury Lawyers has been a trusted advocate for car accident victims throughout Houston, handling a wide range of collision types and helping clients successfully recover compensation for their damages.
Houston Car Accident Attorneys You Can Trust: Your Local Advocates
Choosing the right “attorney near me car accident” is a critical decision that can significantly impact the outcome of your personal injury case. Select an attorney with proven experience, a strong track record of success, and a genuine commitment to achieving the best possible results for you.
Attorney Brian White Personal Injury Lawyers is your trusted choice after a car accident. Our Houston car accident attorneys understand the challenges you face and are dedicated to providing compassionate, effective legal representation. We are available 24/7, offering consultations at your convenience – at our office, your home, workplace, or even the hospital.
Contact us today by phone or through our online form for a free, no-obligation consultation. Let us help you understand your legal rights and options. We are your local “attorney near me car accident,” ready to stand by your side.
What Our Clients Say About Our “Attorney Near Me Car Accident” Services
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Clint was my trial attorney. Before the trial and throughout the process he was attentive and communicated with detail all I needed to do and expect throughout the process. My settlement was more than expected. I would most definitely recommend this law firm to my family and friends! They will take great care of you!
I’m grateful for them!!
Krys S. – February 2022
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Areas We Serve in Houston, TX
Northside, Independence Heights, Central Northwest, Greater Fifth Ward, East Downtown, Central Business District, South Central Houston, Greater OST/South Union, Southwest Houston, Spring Branch East, The Memorial Villages, Briarforest, Chinatown, Mission Bend, Energy Corridor, Northwest Houston, Acres Homes, Aldine, East Aldine, East Houston, Jacinto City, Galeana Park, Deer Park, Southeast Houston, South Park, Greater Hobby Area, Hyde Park, Fourth Ward, Rice Military, Bellaire, South Main, Second Ward, Magnolia Park, Pearland, Friendswood, League City, Dickinson, La Marque, Texas City, Humble, Shady Acres, Jersey Village, Pasadena.
Local Auto Repair Shops
- Dent Dogs Inc – 3900 Southwest Fwy, Houston, TX 77056
- JJ Auto Body – 340 Erin St, Houston, TX 77009
- Brookston Body Shop – 1330 N Durham Dr, Houston, TX 77008
- Dent Sharks – 5090 Richmond Ave Ste 179, Houston, TX 77056
- Ryan Automotive Glass & Collision Center – 716 Fairview St – Houston, TX 77006
*Disclaimer – we do not endorse these companies or profit from having them listed on our website.
