Dallas Car Accident Attorneys 

Seeking Justice for Car Crash Victims in the Dallas-Fort Worth Metroplex

Motor vehicle collisions kill thousands of Texans every year. While no one plans on being in a car accident, knowing your rights is critical to holding negligent drivers accountable after an unexpected injury. This is especially true in Dallas, which has the worst traffic fatality rate among the ten largest U.S. cities. Whether you were hit by a negligent motorist, T-boned by an Uber driver, or rear-ended by an inattentive truck operator, you deserve compensation for medical care, lost wages, and other losses. 

That’s where our seasoned attorneys come in. At J. Alexander Law Firm, we understand how frustrating it can be to recover from a wrongful injury. From affording hospital bills to securing time off work, our Dallas car accident lawyers are committed to seeking justice, freeing you to focus on your health and well-being during this challenging time. With a proven track record of results and over $10 million recovered for injured Texans, our firm can vigorously protect your rights while advocating for the fair settlement you deserve. 

Have you been hit by a negligent driver? Call J. Alexander Law Firm today at (214) 206-3264 or contact us online to discuss your case!

Common Car Accident Injuries

Car crashes can occur out of nowhere. According to federal highway traffic safety data, Dallas saw approximately 15 deaths for every 100,000 people between 2017 and 2021. Even non-fatal collisions can leave victims with devastating injuries. Common injuries sustained from motor vehicle accidents include: 

Aside from the immediate physical impacts, these injuries can also have long-term psychological effects, including post-traumatic stress, anxiety, and depression. Victims requiring rehabilitation or long-term care face significant financial and emotional challenges. Moreover, permanent disabilities can drastically alter one's daily life, affecting career prospects, lifestyle, and personal relationships. Understanding the full scope of these impacts is crucial in valuing the compensation deserved.

Common Causes of Car Accidents 

Car crashes can occur for various reasons, especially in the busy city of DFW. Common causes of car accidents include: 

• Drunk Driving: Even with strict laws in place, drunk drivers still endanger countless lives on North Texas roads, increasing the likelihood of accidents. 
• Speeding: Driving at excessive speeds is extremely dangerous and reduces reaction time on the road, putting drivers at risk of severe injuries and even death.
• Reckless Driving: Safe driving is essential to preventing accidents. Motorists who weave in and out of traffic, cut off other drivers, make unsafe lane changes, or engage in other reckless driving habits are more likely to cause accidents. 
• Distracted Driving: Eating, drinking, texting, fiddling with the radio, adjusting temperature settings, and other distractions can lead to devastating collisions on Texas roadways. 

Additionally, poor weather conditions, such as heavy rain or fog, can exacerbate these risk factors, making it essential for drivers to exercise extra caution. Moreover, mechanical failures, such as brake or tire blowouts, often contribute to accidents. Addressing these hazards requires personal responsibility and adherence to routine vehicle maintenance schedules.

Assessing Your Car Accident Claim in Dallas

If a negligent driver injured you, you may be entitled to compensation. Partnering with a skilled car accident lawyer can make all the difference in these cases. Your attorney can determine whether you have a valid claim by evaluating your case with a practiced legal eye, interviewing experts and eyewitnesses, gathering evidence to establish liability, and advocating for a just settlement. 

Our legal team employs a detailed approach to examining the nuanced aspects of each claim, ensuring that all responsible parties are held accountable. Our thorough investigations leave no stone unturned from insurance companies to individuals and even municipal entities. Using technology and expert witness testimonies, we aim to build compelling arguments highlighting liability and the extent of damages incurred. This robust strategy not only strengthens your position but also aids in expediting the recovery process.

To successfully recover compensation in a car accident claim, the plaintiff is responsible for proving the following elements: 

1. Duty of Care

First, you must show that the defendant owed you a duty of care. Every driver on the road is responsible for practicing safe driving and avoiding operating their vehicles in ways that could injure others. 

While the court recognizes that all drivers have a duty to everyone else on the road, this doesn't mean that other drivers are 100% liable in car accidents. In some cases, multiple parties can share liability. For example, if a fatigued truck driver causes a wreck on a poorly maintained roadway, this can lead to additional responsible parties. 

2. Breach of Duty 

Next, you must demonstrate that the defendant breached their duty by acting negligently, speeding, driving while impaired, or not paying attention to the road. When evaluating your claim, the court will typically consider what a reasonable person would have done in similar circumstances to determine whether the defendant’s actions constitute negligence.

3. Causation

Then, you must establish the defendant’s breach as the cause of your injuries. For example, if you were hit by someone texting and driving at the time of the crash, your lawyer may argue that the accident would not have occurred if the other driver had responsibly paid attention to the road. 

4. Damages

Finally, you must show that you suffered compensatory harm (“damages”) due to the defendant’s negligent behavior. If the accident didn’t result in compensatory damages, you may lack the legal grounds to file a claim. Common recoverable damages in car accident lawsuits include medical treatments, medication costs, hospital bills, property damage, physical therapy, scarring and disfigurement, lost earnings, loss of earning capacity, pain and suffering, and loss of enjoyment of life. 

Remember, sustaining injuries isn’t enough to recover damages in a car accident claim. Securing reliable representation is essential to identify all liable parties, accurately calculate damages, and pursue maximum compensation. Our skilled car accident lawyers in Dallas can guide your legal steps wisely and represent your best interests at trial if necessary to achieve a fair settlement.

Texas Auto Accident Laws & Your Rights

Texas follows a fault-based system, meaning the driver responsible for causing the accident is financially liable for any damages or injuries resulting from the crash. In this system, injured parties can seek compensation from the at-fault driver’s insurance company, file a personal injury lawsuit, or file a claim with their insurance company, depending on their coverage.

Texas also adheres to the comparative fault rule, specifically the "modified comparative fault" system. If an injured party is found to be partially at fault for the accident, their compensation can be reduced by the percentage of fault attributed to them. For example, if someone is found to be 20% at fault for the crash, their total recovery will be reduced by 20%. However, if a person is more than 50% at fault, they are barred from receiving any compensation under Texas law.

Understanding these laws can be crucial in formulating a strong claim. It's particularly important to gather comprehensive evidence, such as police reports, witness statements, and expert analysis, to counter any claims of contributory negligence. An experienced auto accident attorney in Dallas can provide insights into how these laws affect your circumstances and the strategy to maximize recovery. Additionally, constant legal updates necessitate ongoing advisement to ensure compliance with current regulations.

Texas drivers must carry minimum liability insurance to cover bodily injury and property damage. The minimum coverage is often called 30/60/25, which means $30,000 for bodily injury per person, $60,000 per accident for bodily injury, and $25,000 for property damage. Although these are the minimum amounts required, they are often insufficient to cover serious accidents, making it essential for drivers to consider purchasing additional coverage.

The statute of limitations for filing a personal injury lawsuit related to a car accident in Texas is two years from the date of the accident. If you wish to seek compensation through the courts, you must file your lawsuit within two years, or you will likely lose your right to do so. However, there are some exceptions to this rule, such as in cases where the injured party is a minor or when the accident involves a government vehicle, which might have different deadlines.

Reporting Requirements 

Texas law requires that car accidents be reported to law enforcement if they result in injury, death, or significant property damage. If the police do not respond to the scene, the parties involved must file a Crash Report (CR-2) with the Texas Department of Transportation within ten days of the accident.

Filing accurate and timely reports can significantly impact your claim's success, providing a crucial record that illustrates the incident's details. Ensuring all necessary documentation is collected correctly and submitted can prevent potential legal hiccups and protect your rights in future proceedings. An auto accident lawyer in Dallas can assist in making sure all protocols are observed, ensuring the integrity of your claim.

Personal Injury Protection (PIP)

While Texas is a fault state, insurance companies must offer drivers Personal Injury Protection (PIP) coverage, although it can be declined in writing. PIP coverage compensates for medical expenses, lost wages, and other related costs, regardless of who was at fault in the accident. PIP is optional, but having it can provide immediate benefits without waiting for fault to be determined.

What Should I Do After a Car Accident in Dallas?

Navigating the aftermath of a serious injury can be overwhelming and stressful. While it can be confusing to know where to turn, knowing what steps to take after a collision is critical to seeking compensation. Here are five steps to take after a car accident: 

1. Seek Medical Attention: Regardless of the severity of your injuries after a car accident, seeking prompt medical care is essential to rule out serious harm. This can also establish formal documentation of the incident, which may serve as valuable evidence later on. 
2. Report the Accident: If no one else has done so already, report the car accident to the local authorities. Law enforcement will typically create a police report for the accident, which can strengthen your claim. 
3. Exchange Contact Information: If possible, exchange contact and insurance information from other involved parties, including eyewitnesses who saw the accident.
4. Document the Accident: Take photos or videos to document the accident scene, such as your injuries, vehicle damage, landmarks or street signs, and other evidence that may be useful to your claim.
5. Consult with a Dallas Lawyer: Seeking sound counsel from a car accident attorney in Dallas is paramount to pursuing a fair settlement. Your lawyer can help you navigate the legal intricacies of the claims process and build a robust case on your behalf. 

Additionally, staying organized by keeping all related documents in one place, including medical records, correspondence with insurance companies, and expense receipts, can streamline the claims process. These records can provide pivotal evidence of the financial impact suffered and are invaluable to your attorney when constructing strategic legal arguments.

Compensation Available to Dallas Car Accident Victims

Economic damages are meant to compensate the victim for tangible, out-of-pocket expenses related to the accident. These include:

• Medical Expenses: Victims are entitled to recover costs for medical treatment, including hospital bills, surgeries, prescription medications, rehabilitation, and future medical care if the injuries require long-term treatment.
• Lost Wages: If the accident causes the victim to miss work, they can be compensated for lost income. This includes wages lost and any future loss of earning capacity if the injuries prevent them from returning to work or limit their ability to perform the same job.
• Property Damage: Compensation includes repairing or replacing the vehicle and any other property damaged in the accident.
• Other Out-of-Pocket Costs: This can include rental cars, transportation to medical appointments, or any other direct financial losses tied to the accident.

Non-economic damages cover the more subjective losses that are harder to quantify but still significantly impact the victim’s quality of life. These may include:

• Pain and Suffering: Compensation for physical pain, discomfort, and suffering experienced due to the injuries. This can also account for chronic pain if the injuries lead to long-term or permanent pain.
• Emotional Distress: Victims can recover compensation for the emotional trauma caused by the accident, which may include anxiety, depression, PTSD, or other psychological conditions.
• Loss of Enjoyment of Life: If the injuries from the accident prevent the victim from participating in activities or hobbies they once enjoyed, they may be entitled to compensation for the loss of enjoyment of life.
• Loss of Consortium: In cases where the victim’s injuries affect their relationship with a spouse or family, such as the loss of companionship or intimacy, their family members may also be able to seek compensation.

Calculating these damages requires meticulously reviewing how the injury has altered one's day-to-day life. Our team can work with life-care planners and other experts to ensure that all future needs and opportunities for recovery are considered. Collaborative efforts help ensure that settlements reflect current losses and the long-term effects, providing holistic relief to victims and their families.

The Role of Technology in Auto Accident Cases in Dallas

Technology is crucial in collecting, organizing, and presenting evidence in car accident cases. At J. Alexander Law Firm, we leverage advanced software and tools to analyze video surveillance, accident scene photos, and vehicle telematics. By doing so, we unveil pertinent details that might have been overlooked, providing a clearer picture of the events leading to the accident. This strategic use of technology aids in constructing powerful legal narratives that support our client's claims.

Moreover, digital communication platforms facilitate seamless interactions between our team and clients, ensuring timely updates and consultations are easily accessible. Our dedication to integrating technology into our legal practice allows us to offer high-quality service and remain agile in the evolving sphere of legal services. Staying ahead with technology ensures our clients benefit from cutting-edge resources that bolster their claims.

How Our Firm Supports Dallas Car Accident Victims

At J. Alexander Law Firm, we provide comprehensive support to ensure our clients receive the highest care and legal counsel. We understand that the aftermath of an accident can be overwhelming, and coordinating medical treatment is often challenging. Our legal team helps facilitate access to medical professionals across Dallas, ensuring that your treatment is prioritized and documented properly for future legal proceedings. Our collaboration with a network of medical experts allows us to build more substantial legal claims and ensure your recovery is medically and financially supported.

In addition to handling your financial reimbursement from insurance companies and third parties, we offer guidance on handling your legal paperwork so you can focus solely on getting better. We commit to walking with you through every process step using a client-first approach. From consultation to battle-ready legal representation, we are here to lend a helping hand whenever you need it.

Contact Our Dallas Car Accident Lawyers Today

At J. Alexander Law Firm, we understand the devastating financial, emotional, and physical tolls of an unexpected accident. Our attorneys are dedicated to helping you get back on your feet after a wrongful injury. If you were injured by someone else’s negligence in North Texas, time is of the essence. When you contact our firm, you can expect compassionate counsel and individualized representation tailored to your specific case. As experienced trial attorneys, we never shy away from burdensome litigation if that’s what it takes to obtain a fair settlement. From filing your claim to negotiating with evasive insurance companies, you can rest assured that your rights are protected in and out of the courtroom.

FAQs About Car Accidents in Dallas

What Are the Most Dangerous Roads in Dallas for Car Accidents?

Dallas is home to several high-risk roads where traffic volume and hazardous driving conditions converge, raising the likelihood of car accidents. Notably, I-35, Loop 12, and Highway 75 are among the most accident-prone areas within the city. Due to these roads' intersections with major highways and frequent construction projects, they become hotspots for both minor and severe collisions. Drivers should exercise heightened caution by adhering to speed limits, maintaining safe distances, and remaining vigilant during peak traffic hours.

How Do I Obtain a Traffic Report in Dallas?

Acquiring a traffic report is essential for supporting your car accident claim. In Dallas, drivers can obtain a copy of their traffic report through the Dallas Police Department's website or by visiting the department in person. It's important to request this report as soon as it becomes available, as it contains vital information such as the accident's date, time, location, and involving parties. The report serves as key evidence that assists legal professionals in building a comprehensive claim on your behalf.

What Factors Influence the Value of My Car Accident Claim?

Multiple factors contribute to determining the value of your car accident claim. They include the severity of your injuries, resulting medical expenses, lost wages, and long-term impacts on quality of life. Additionally, the defendant's degree of fault is relevant, particularly in Texas's comparative fault system. Here, any fault attributed to you can reduce the compensation you receive proportionately. Legal representation helps accurately assess these variables, developing a strategy to maximize your claim value effectively.

Is It Possible to Reopen a Settled Car Accident Claim?

Once a car accident claim is settled, reopening the case is typically impossible. Settlement agreements often contain clauses prohibiting further legal action related to the incident. However, certain exceptions might exist if evidence of fraud or misrepresentation emerges, justifying a review of the settlement terms. Consulting a legal professional can help clarify your options and determine if any viable grounds exist for revisiting a completed settlement.

Contact J. Alexander Law Firm today at (214) 206-3264 or contact us online to schedule a free consultation with our car accident attorneys in Dallas!