Injured in a Houston Car Accident? Our Lawyers Think You Need to Know This

Car Accident Attorney IN Houston, Texas

Car accidents are seldom straightforward. Between determining who is at fault and assessing injuries, it is crucial to protect yourself with experienced representation. At Abraham, Watkins, Nichols, Agosto, Aziz & Stogner, our lawyers will protect your best interests if you are injured in a collision due to a negligent or careless driver.

Insurance Companies Will Not Look Out for Your Best Interests; that’s why you need an attorney.

If you’ve been injured in a car crash you may be wondering, “why do I need a car accident lawyer?”. Auto insurance companies are in the business of minimizing any payouts so they can maximize profits. As you lay injured in the hospital, an insurance company may deny your claim, forcing you to take time away from healing to appeal and negotiate your suffering.

At Abraham, Watkins, Nichols, Agosto, Aziz & Stogner, you are not a claim number to be filed away. Our personal injury lawyers will protect your rights so you can focus on your recovery. Here is how we can help.

• All personal injury claims come down to liability. Who is at fault for your car accident? Our car accident attorneys can investigate how your collision happened
• Our attorneys can also calculate the damages and injuries you are owed
• We will prepare and file your case, keeping you updated along the way
• Our lawyers have the resources to collect critical evidence and documentation regarding your crash
• The dedicated team at Abraham, Watkins, Nichols, Agosto, Aziz & Stogner will then prove your injuries, negotiate with the car insurance company on your behalf, and fight for the settlement you deserve
• If the insurance company refuses a reasonable offer, our car accident lawyers can try the case for a final judgment. 

Is hiring a Lawyer Expensive?

Our attorneys invite you to come for a free case evaluation. Simply call 713-244-5477, and we will assess your accident. 

Car accident victims without an attorney are subjected to numerous questions, often involving their role in the accident. The insurance adjuster’s goal is to minimize the liability of the at-fault party and any payout you are entitled to. If you claim some responsibility for the accident, they have succeeded. 

Sometimes accident victims accept a very low insurance settlement because they are not mentally capable of handling their own claim due to the amount of pain and shock they are experiencing. Car accidents are traumatic. Insurance adjusters count on your willingness to close your case quickly.

Our accident attorneys have extensive experience negotiating car accident claims. Before you call the insurance company, contact us immediately. Do not risk getting a meager payout that may not cover most of your medical expenses. Let our skilled attorneys examine your case and secure the total compensation you are owed. 

How Many People Do Car WRECKS Affect? 

People are affected by careless and negligent drivers all over the United States. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, in 2020;

• 42,060 people died in motor vehicle crashes
• Car accident fatalities rose 4.6% in the first 9 months
• Vehicle miles traveled, however, dropped 14.5%
• 4,795,000 were reportedly injured in traffic accidents
• The NHTSA reports note it has seen the highest annual increase in fatalities in 96 years

Here in Texas, our roads have also produced worrying statistics. According to the Texas Department of Transportation;

• An estimated 3,726 people were killed in a car accident
• Another 14,937 people were seriously injured
• 403 people were killed as the result of a distracted driver
• 961 people were killed in car crashes that involved an intoxicated and impaired driver

It is important to note that there were no deathless days on Texas roadways. Every day when you go to work, take the kids to school, go grocery shopping, or stop by the bank, you are at risk of a negligent driver crashing into you and changing your life forever. 

At Abraham, Watkins, Nichols, Agosto, Aziz & Stogner, we have helped many car accident victims since 1951. If you or someone you love has been injured in a car accident, call an experienced auto accident lawyer today. We have the skills and resources you need to handle your case. If you have lost a loved one due to someone’s careless driving, you may be entitled to compensation in a wrongful death claim. 

Do You Need a Wrongful Death Attorney?

If you have lost someone close to you recently, the entire staff at Abraham, Watkins, Nichols, Agosto, Aziz & Stogner offer our condolences. We have been there for many families in the Houston area, looking for answers. Losing a loved one suddenly and unexpectedly can be shocking. We know that no amount of money will make up for the loss you have experienced. A wrongful death claim can provide some compensation and closure in your time of need and ensure that the liable party is held responsible.

When a person passes suddenly, there are numerous affairs to put in order. The estate must be dealt with, including any debts the deceased owes. Funeral costs can be very taxing on their loved one’s bank accounts. Medical bills will start to add up quickly, along with many other unforeseen expenses. If your loved one was killed in a careless accident, our wrongful death attorneys can secure the compensation you and your family deserve to cover all your unforeseen bills. Contact us for a free consultation of your case by calling 713-244-5477. 

What Steps Should You Take After an Accident?

Car accidents happen every day. Prepare yourself and your family by knowing the appropriate steps to take following a collision. Whether the car accident was minor, like a fender-bender, or major, here is what you should do after an accident;

Check yourself for injuries

Often this is everyone’s first instinct. However, the release of adrenaline can make us feel less injured than we are, causing further damage. Take your time and see if you are in pain or suffering from injuries that require immediate medical treatment. If anyone is injured, seek medical attention as soon as possible. If you cannot call 911, ask someone else to do so.

Check your passengers for injuries

Were you traveling with your spouse? Were you traveling with your children? Try not to move people who may have sustained back, neck, or other serious injuries. It is best to wait for emergency personnel.

Move to safety

If the accident is minor, get to safety by moving to the side of the road. If your car is safe to drive and poses a hazard to other drivers, pull it to the side of the road and get off as far as possible.

If someone has not called 911 yet, make sure you do so immediately. 

Exchange information

Do not simply write the other person’s name and the insurance company. Make sure you have;

• Their full name, address, and contact number
• Insurance company and policy number
• Driver’s license and license plate number
• Type, model, and color of the vehicle

Location of the car collision

Make sure to document as much information as you can, including;

• Take pictures from different angles and make sure to show the damage on both cars
• Take a picture of the other vehicle’s license plate
• Talk to witnesses and get their full contact information

When the police arrive, make sure to give as many details as possible. Also, make sure you ask for a copy of the report for your records. Getting the officers’ names and badge numbers can also help when filing a claim. Make sure the investigating officers speak with the witnesses. 

Contact an attorney before you contact the insurance company

Do not speak to the insurance company before speaking to an attorney. After an accident, you may find yourself inundated with callers, including both the other driver’s insurance company and your own. Before you provide any information, contact a lawyer in Houston to ensure that your rights are protected throughout the process. Your lawyer can help you gather evidence, such as witness statements, medical reports, and photos of the scene, to prove that you were not at fault. They can also provide guidance on negotiating a settlement if necessary.

What is the Average Settlement?

Every car accident is unique; therefore, the average settlement will depend on many varying factors. Critical evidence to support your auto accident claim will depend on how well you documented the accident, were there any witnesses, and were there any cameras? 

In the United States, the average payout for a car accident can be between $14,000 and $28,000. There are also other non-economic damages to consider, like pain and suffering damages, physical impairments, and disfigurement.

What Are Pain and Suffering Damages?

Pain and suffering damages can be challenging to assess. While “pain” refers to your injuries after a car accident, “suffering” is used to show the mental harm that results from the accident. For example, your accident may have caused depression, post-traumatic stress, and anxiety. If your injuries were severe, you might have to cope with losing a limb, having a traumatic brain injury, or other limitations. 

The pain, both mentally and physically, could be temporary or chronic. They may affect your life a little or be completely life-altering. These varying degrees will create the base for how much your pain and suffering are worth. 

Proving pain and suffering damages can be difficult. Medical documentation is a great way to verify the physical damage; however, emotional damage can be challenging. One of the most effective ways to demonstrate your psychological pain is by keeping a daily log. Did you miss any activities with your children today? Were you able to help as you normally do around the house? How was your pain on a scale of 1-10?

Other factors contribute to the amount of pain and suffering damages;

• The car accident victim’s age
• The car accident victim’s condition prior to the accident
• What was the extent of the injuries?
• What is the duration of recovery?
• Is there permanent damage?
• Are there day-to-day activities that they cannot participate in?
• Can the auto accident victim spend quality time with family and friends?

If you were injured in an accident, it’s crucial that you get in contact with an experienced auto accident attorney who can gather evidence and build a strong case for you.

How Much Can an Accident Cost You?

In the United States, soaring medical costs have driven up insurance settlement claims. If you have been hurt in a car accident, the medical expenses can be staggering. Medical debt is one of the leading causes of Americans filing bankruptcy. Without the right attorney, these costs may not be covered;

• $1,000 for an ambulance to take you from the scene to the nearest emergency room
• The emergency room itself can cost upwards of $20,000
• Hospital stays while you recover are widely expensive. Each night may cost you $2,750 or more
• If your injuries require surgery, you could be on the hook for tens of thousands of dollars
• While recovering, if you need physical therapy, occupational therapy, or home care, you could owe thousands more.

Having skillful representation is the safest way to protect yourself and ensure all your medical expenses are secured. Call a car accident lawyer in Houston, TX, now. 

What Are the Most Common Types of Car Crashes?

Houston sees numerous car accidents every day. When you have representation from Abraham Watkins, our car accident attorneys will talk to witnesses, read the police reports, and find the critical evidence you need to establish liability. 

Some of the more common car accidents in Houston involve;

• Driving under the influence. This can lead to criminal as well as civil charges.
• Distracted Driving. With the coming of the smartphone and apps, distracted driving has become an increasing threat on Houston roads
• Speeding. Officials have noted the steep increase in fatalities in the last reporting year may be due to excessive speeding 
• Head-on collisions. Most head-on collisions are caused by an impaired driver.
• Hazardous roads: The lack of infrastructure or updated infrastructure can wreak havoc on Houston’s streets
• Defective motor vehicles 
• Big-rigs, semi-trucks, and commercial trucks 

If you or someone you love has been injured in a collision, you need a Houston car accident lawyer today. At Abraham Watkins, our highly knowledgeable team can handle an array of motor vehicle accidents. Call our team today by dialing 713-244-5477.

What Are the Common Injuries Associated with Car Accidents?

 Car crashes can be devastating. Major car accidents often cause catastrophic injuries that can result in death, permanent disability, or disfigurement. Some common injuries from car accidents include;

• Traumatic Brain Injuries
• Spinal cord injuries
• Back injuries
• Burns
• Internal organ damage or bleeding
• Broken bones, fractures, and dislocations
• Limb loss and amputation
• Comas
• Neck injuries
• Disfiguring facial injuries and scars
• Crush injuries
• Lacerations

If you or someone you know has sustained injuries in a car accident due to someone’s negligence, you need a car wreck attorney in Houston. Our experienced attorneys have successfully represented Texans in a wide range of personal injury cases. Call today and let us secure the compensation you deserve.

What Are Delayed Injuries?

During a crash, adrenalin floods the body and can make it more difficult for you to assess the damage. Injuries from a major car accident will send you swiftly to the nearest emergency room. Even minor auto accidents can cause lacerations or whiplash. However, in some cases, car accident injuries can be delayed. 

Delayed injuries can begin to affect a car accident victim hours, days, or even weeks after the collision. They can range from minor injuries to major problems. Delayed injuries can substantially increase the cost of a car accident for the victim. If you have been injured in a Houston car accident, some of the most common car accident injuries include;

Headaches

One of the worst injuries to ignore is a headache after a car crash. Often, it takes several days for a headache to present itself. Many people brush off the pain with medication, but a headache could be a sign of major head trauma. There is potential for a blood clot on the brain to develop or a severe concussion.

Shoulder and Neck Pain

Otherwise known as “whiplash.” Whiplash is a tricky personal injury. It usually takes days to develop. Unfortunately, it requires more testing to be properly diagnosed, with an x-ray, CT scan, or MRI.

Back Pain

Back pain can be debilitating. Many times, back pain is the result of damage to the ligaments, muscles, or vertebrae by way of sprains, strains, and herniated discs.

Abdominal Pain

Abdominal pain several days after an accident can signal something life-threatening, like internal bleeding or organ damage. Other symptoms may be deep bruising, dizziness, fainting, and lightheadedness. 

Numbness and Tingling

When the neck or spinal column is injured, your arms and legs may start to tingle or have numb spots. This is often the sign of a herniated disk pressing on the spinal nerve. 

Car Accident FAQs

Who pays the deductible in a car accident?

When an accident occurs, the insurance company of the at-fault driver for the accident typically pays out any claims. Generally, this means that if you are not at fault for an accident, the other driver’s insurance company will pay the costs associated with the accident, including your deductible. If you are found to be at fault, then your own insurance company will pay out the claim and will typically require that you pay your deductible. Additionally, if both drivers are found to be equally at fault, each person’s insurer may pay a portion of the claim, and each driver may be responsible for paying their own deductible.

Should I hire a lawyer for a minor car accident?

Yes, it is generally a good idea to consult an experienced car accident attorney after any accident, even if the damage appears minor. A lawyer can help protect your rights and ensure that you are receiving the appropriate compensation for any damages suffered as a result of the accident. Additionally, a lawyer can help you understand your legal rights and obligations in regard to the accident and can provide guidance on any potential consequences or liabilities that may arise from the incident.

How long do I have to report a car accident in Texas?

In Texas, you are required to report any car accident that results in personal injury, death, or property damage of over $1,000. You must make a crash report within 10 days of the accident either online or by phone with your local law enforcement agency. If you fail to do so, you may face fines and other penalties. If you are unsure of how to proceed, contact a professional attorney specializing in car accident cases. They will be able to provide the necessary guidance and assistance.

How long do I have to file a car accident lawsuit in Texas?

According to Texas Law,  you have two years from the date of the accident to file a personal injury lawsuit. In certain cases, you may be able to extend this timeframe, but it is best to consult an experienced lawyer specializing in car accident cases as soon as possible so that your case can be evaluated and any potential claims pursued in a timely manner.

Can I sue if I was a passenger in a car accident?

Yes, you may be able to sue if you were a passenger in a car accident. Depending on the circumstances and who is at fault for the accident, you may have a valid claim for damages. If the driver of your vehicle was at fault, you can sue them for negligence. Additionally, if another party caused the accident then you may also have grounds to sue them. It is important to contact a lawyer that specializes in car accident cases to explore your options and determine if you have a valid claim for damages. They can provide advice on the best course of action and help you get the compensation you deserve.  It is important to act quickly, as there may be time limits on filing a claim.  Your lawyer will be able to provide more information on the specific laws and regulations that apply to your situation.

Why Choose Abraham, Watkins, Nichols, Agosto, Aziz & Stogner as Your Auto Accident Attorney?

At Abraham, Watkins, Nichols, Agosto, Aziz & Stogner, our exceptional team of personal injury attorneys understands that the success of a personal injury claim rests on the skills and resources of the firm. With over 70 years of experience, Abraham Watkins has cultivated a reputation of excellence as the top personal injury law firm in Houston, TX. Our team will handle your car accident claim with precision and attention to detail. We firmly believe in client responsiveness and will help guide you through the process of filing a Houston car accident claim step by step.

If you or someone you know has been injured in a car accident in Houston due to carelessness or negligence, please call us for legal representation. Abraham, Watkins, Nichols, Agosto, Aziz & Stogner will fight to recover the damages to which you are entitled, including;

• Complete coverage of medical expenses, both present, and future
• Lost wages if you are unable to work
• Lost economic earning potential
• Pain and suffering damages and all other non-economic damages
• Possible punitive damages against a grossly negligent party

Abraham, Watkins, Nichols, Agosto, Aziz & Stogner are here for you. Contact us for a free consultation by clicking here or by calling us at 713-244-5477.

Car Accident Resources

Dealing With Insurance After an Accident

What to Do After a Car Accident

A Guide to Truck Accident Claims in Texas

Accidents Caused by Automobile Defects

Accidents Caused by Brake Failure

Accidents Caused by Tire Defects

Bus Crashes

Rear End Truck Collisions

Hit By a Drunk Driver

Motorcycle Accidents

SUV Rollovers

Uber & Lyft Accidents

Train and Railroad Accidents