Three Important Reasons You Should Speak With a Car Accident Attorney
Many people think they can handle the legal process on their own without an attorney. However, the aftermath of a car accident can be confusing and overbearing, which is why you may need an experienced attorney to help you navigate the difficult process following the accident and protect your rights.
As a car accident attorney at Jose Orihuela, Attorney at Law, I understand what people are going through and how they feel when they get into a wreck. For this reason, I am dedicated to providing clients with reliable legal representation to advocate for their rights and pursue the justice and compensation they deserve. I have two locations in Wester and Houston, Texas, but also serve accident victims in Pasadena, South Houston, Santa Fe, League City, Clear Lake, and the surrounding area.
Reasons to Speak With an Auto Accident Attorney
Getting into an auto accident is always a shocking and unsettling experience, even if it is just a fender-bender. While you may think that you can obtain compensation without anyone’s help, there are circumstances in which it might be helpful to contact a personal injury attorney. Some of the key reasons why you might want to speak with an attorney following a car crash include:
1. Determining Fault and Liability
Proving the other party’s fault and establishing liability is a critical aspect of a successful personal injury case in Texas. The state follows the traditional fault-based system when it comes to auto accidents. Under this system, the driver responsible for the crash is held financially liable for any injuries and losses suffered by the victims. According to the Texas Department of Insurance, state law requires every motorist to purchase liability insurance with a minimum of $30,000 of coverage per injured person, $60,000 per accident (total), and $25,000 for property damage.
When pursuing compensation, the injured party must prove the following elements:
The at-fault driver owed them a duty of care;
The duty was breached because of their negligence;
The negligence resulted in the auto accident; and,
The victim suffered actual harm or losses due to negligence.
Your attorney can help you determine fault and establish liability as well as gather all available evidence to prove the above-mentioned elements of negligence.
2. A Severe Injury
If your injuries after an auto accident are severe, you have one more reason to speak with an attorney. It can be difficult—and, in many cases, detrimental to your recovery—to attempt to navigate the legal process while trying to heal from your injuries and get back on your feet. For this reason, you might want to dedicate your time and energy where you need it most: your health. Your attorney, meanwhile, will take care of all the legal aspects of your claim.
3. Negotiating With the Insurance Company
Insurance companies are profit-driven businesses, which is why dealing with them may not be the most pleasant experience, especially after a traumatizing event such as an auto accident. The last thing you want is to endure the unnecessary stress of communication with the insurance company when trying to recover from your injuries. When you hire an attorney, they will negotiate with the insurance company on your behalf and fight for a fair and reasonable settlement.
Things to Ask a Personal Injury Attorney
Before you call a car accident attorney, you need to know what questions to ask. Some of the questions you could ask during your initial consultation include:
How long have been practicing the law?
Have you handled cases similar to mine before? If so, how did you resolve them?
Will you personally handle my case or will be someone else in your firm?
How much do you think my case is worth?
How long will it take to resolve my case?
Will it be necessary to take my case to trial?
What is your fee structure?
If I lose, will I still be responsible for case-related expenses?
Do not be afraid to ask follow-up questions. After all, your goal is to make sure that you are hiring the right attorney for your case, so treat it as a job interview where the attorney is a candidate for a very important position in your company.
Don’t Face This Without Professional Legal Support
Speaking with an attorney after a car accident can help you better understand your situation and your legal options. If you have been involved in an automobile accident, seek compassionate and personalized legal help from Jose Orihuela, Attorney at Law. I am here to provide you with the legal support you need to receive the compensation to which you are entitled. Get in touch now to request your free consultation.