FAQ: Can I recover compensation from the manufacturer of my vehicle or the vehicle that caused my crash?
You may be able to recover from the manufacturer of your vehicle, if your vehicle did not meet its crash-resistant standards. This could happen if you experienced defective seat belts, airbags, tires, brakes, car seats, roofs, or fuel pump systems. In addition, if the vehicle that caused your accident suffered from a failure of one
Read MoreFAQ: What if the vehicle that caused my accident was an Uber or a Lyft?
Most Uber and Lyft drivers are using their own vehicles, and should carry their own auto insurance for their vehicles. If the Uber or Lyft app is not on at the time of the accident (e.g. the driver was driving for their own purposes), a claim can only be filed against the driver’s personal insurance.
Read MoreFAQ: Do I have to take my car to a repair shop the other driver’s insurance company approves?
Absolutely not, although many people believe this myth. You can have your car repaired at whatever repair shop you know and trust. When you arrive there, provide them with the claim number, the name of the adjuster, and the adjuster’s phone number. They should take care of the rest.
Read MoreFAQ: Should I see a doctor after an accident, even if I do not feel hurt?
Yes! Some injuries do not show symptoms immediately. It is critical to be evaluated by a doctor to diagnose all injuries and to start receiving appropriate medical care. The doctor will also create medical records that can be important evidence at a later date.
Read MoreFAQ: Can I recover damages if I wasn’t wearing a seatbelt at the time of the accident?
Whether you are wearing, or not wearing, a seat belt at the time of the accident does not stop you from filing a lawsuit for damages. It can potentially, however, reduce the other party’s liability for injuries you suffer. In Texas, injured parties can be determined to be partly responsible for their own injuries if
Read MoreFAQ: The other driver’s insurance adjuster has requested my medical records. Should I release them?
You need to remember that the goal of the other driver’s insurance company is to pay as little as possible. While it’s likely that they will need to see at least some of your medical records, anything you release to them can be used against you. Only specific records pertaining to the accident are actually
Read MoreFAQ: How common are car accidents in Austin?
The Texas Department of Transportation reports that there were 12,433 car accident in Austin in 2021 (the most recent year for which there is data). According to AustinTexas.gov, in 2021, there were 112 fatal crashes in Austin. These resulted in 120 fatalities. About 1% of car accidents in Austin involved distracted drivers, while 8% involved
Read MoreFAQ: Who is responsible for damage to my vehicle form hitting a city street pothole?
Generally, maintenance of city streets is the responsibility of the municipal government, who are expected to inspect and maintain their streets. They may be found financially liable for damages resulting from their failure to do so. Such cases are complex and difficult. The plaintiff must prove that the city knew, or should have known, about
Read MoreFAQ: Can I seek reparations for losses and injuries that were not immediately apparent (at the time of the accident)?
Absolutely. Such things are common. Many physical injuries, such as concussions or whiplash, only become obvious over time. In addition, it may not be clear until much later how your injury impacts your life, such as reducing your ability to work or even enjoy time with your family. You can even seek compensation for damages
Read MoreFAQ: How can I maximize my compensation in a personal injury claim?
There are a number of things you can do after an accident to maximize you potential compensation. 1. Gather Evidence. Using your phone, take pictures of all vehicles involved from a number of different angles. Do the same for any immediately apparent injuries. Take pictures of any stop lights or signs, and any skid marks
Read More
