Lubbock Car Accident Lawyer Nationally Recognized Trial Attorneys
Welcome to Keith & Lorfing, your reliable personal injury law firm in Lubbock, Texas. We understand that a car accident can be a traumatic and overwhelming experience. Our compassionate team is here to support and guide you through this difficult time with expert legal advice and care.
In 2021, Lubbock saw 42 fatal car accidents. And this statistic needs to be reduced. With over 75 years of combined experience in personal injury law, our nationally recognized trial attorneys fight vigorously for the rights of individuals and families throughout West Texas. We are dedicated to ensuring you receive fair treatment and justice.
Let us help you rebuild your life after a car accident. Contact us today for a free consultation and take the first step towards your recovery.
Schedule a Free Consultation Today
Compensation You Can Claim After a Car Accident
If you’ve been involved in a car accident you may be entitled to various types of compensation:
1. Economic Damages
- Current Medical Costs: This includes expenses for hospital stays, surgeries, doctor visits, medications, physical therapy, and any other immediate medical treatments related to the accident.
- Future Medical Costs: If your injuries require long-term treatment or ongoing medical care, you can claim compensation for future medical expenses.
- Current Lost Income: Compensation for the income you have lost if you are unable to work due to your injuries.
- Loss of Earning Capacity: If your injuries affect your ability to earn a living in the future, you may be entitled to compensation for the reduction in your earning capacity.
- Vehicle Repair or Replacement: Costs to repair or replace your vehicle if it was damaged or totaled in the accident.
- Personal Property Damage: Compensation for any personal property that was damaged in the accident, such as electronics, clothing, or other belongings.
- Transportation Costs: Expenses for traveling to and from medical appointments.
- Home Care Costs: Costs for hiring help for household chores or personal care if you are unable to perform these tasks yourself due to your injuries.
2. Non-Economic Damages
- Pain and Suffering: Emotional distress you have endured as a result of the accident and your injuries, such as anxiety, depression, and trauma.
- Loss of Consortium: Compensation for the negative effects your injuries have had on your relationship with your spouse or family members.
- Loss of Enjoyment of Life: For the impact of your injuries on your ability to enjoy day-to-day activities and hobbies that you once enjoyed.
3. Punitive Damages
In cases where the at-fault party’s actions were particularly egregious or reckless, you may be entitled to punitive damages. These damages are intended to punish the wrongdoer and deter similar conduct in the future.
Factors Influencing the Amount of Compensation
The amount of compensation you may be entitled to can vary based on several factors:
- Severity and Permanence of Injuries: The more severe and long-lasting your injuries, the higher the compensation is likely to be.
- Degree of Fault: If you share some responsibility for the accident, your compensation may be reduced proportionally.
- Impact on Daily Life: The extent to which your injuries affect your daily life and ability to work can influence the amount of compensation.
- Quality of Evidence: Strong, well-documented evidence can significantly enhance your personal injury claim.
Elements Needed for a Valid Car Accident Claim
Here are the key components required to build a strong car accident claim:
1. Duty of Care
All drivers have a legal duty to operate their vehicles responsibly and follow traffic laws to ensure the safety of others on the road. Establishing that the at-fault driver had a duty of care towards you is the first step in pursuing a claim.
2. Breach of Duty
You must also demonstrate that the other driver breached their duty of care. This breach can occur through various actions, such as:
- Speeding
- Running a red light
- Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs
- Distracted driving (e.g., texting while driving)
- Failing to yield the right of way
3. Causation
It is not enough to show that the other driver was negligent; you must also prove that their breach of duty directly caused the motor vehicle accident. This involves demonstrating a clear connection between the driver’s actions and the collision that resulted in your accident injuries.
Evidence such as witness statements, accident reconstruction reports, and video footage can help establish causation — more on this further down this page.
4. Damages
To have a valid claim, you need to show that you suffered damages as a result of the accident. Damages can include:
- Physical Injuries: Medical records documenting your injuries and treatments.
- Emotional Distress: Psychological impacts such as anxiety, depression, and trauma.
- Lost Wages: Proof of income lost due to your inability to work.
- Medical Bills: Expenses and receipts for hospital stays, surgeries, medications, and other medical treatments.
- Property Damage: Costs for repairing or replacing your vehicle and other personal property.
- Pain and Suffering: Documentation of the physical pain and emotional suffering you have endured.
Why Choose Keith & Lorfing as Your Lubbock Car Accident Lawyers
Choosing the right legal representation after a car accident will help secure the compensation you deserve. Our Lubbock personal injury lawyers stand out for several compelling reasons:
- Successful Outcomes: Our firm has a strong history of achieving favorable settlements and verdicts for our clients. With more than 500 jury trials under our belts, we know how to effectively advocate for justice in the courtroom.
- Decades of Expertise: With over 75 years of combined experience in personal injury law, our legal team has the knowledge and skills to handle even the most complex car accident cases. Our extensive background ensures that we can effectively navigate the legal system on your behalf.
- Recognized Excellence: Our dedication to legal excellence has been recognized with numerous awards, including being named Best Lawyers in Abilene for 2023. This recognition reflects our unwavering commitment to providing top-tier legal representation.
- Client-Centered Care: At Keith & Lorfing, we understand the emotional and physical toll a car accident can take on you and your family. We are committed to providing compassionate support and treating our clients with the respect and dignity they deserve throughout the legal process.
- Tailored Approach: Every case is unique, and we believe in providing personalized attention to each client. Our attorneys take the time to understand the specific details of your situation and develop customized legal strategies that maximize your chances of a successful outcome.
- Contingency Fee Basis: We operate on a contingency fee basis, meaning you pay nothing upfront. Our fees are only collected if we win your case, ensuring that you can pursue justice without financial risk.
- Unique Insights: Our team includes multiple attorneys who have served as state and federal prosecutors. This experience gives us valuable insights and a strategic edge in handling your car accident case.
- Timely Attention: We utilize modern business practices to ensure quick turnaround and response times. We understand the urgency of your situation and are committed to providing prompt and efficient legal services.
- Multiple Office Locations: To better serve our Lubbock community, we have offices throughout West Texas, making it easy for you to access our services. We offer both in-person and virtual consultations to suit your needs.
- Robust Team: With a strong team of attorneys and support staff, we have the resources necessary to handle even the most demanding cases. Our collective expertise and teamwork ensure high-quality service and client satisfaction.
Expert Advice From Our Lubbock Car Accident Attorneys
Key Pieces of Evidence to Support Your Car Accident Claim
Gathering and preserving strong evidence will help to build a successful car accident claim for accident victims. Here are the main types of evidence that can significantly strengthen your case:
- Official Documentation: The police report provides an official account of the accident, including details about the involved parties, witness statements, and any citations issued. This report is often a key piece of evidence for establishing fault.
- Accident Scene: Take clear photos and videos of the accident scene from multiple angles. Capture vehicle positions, road conditions, traffic signs, skid marks, and any visible injuries.
- Vehicle Damage: Document the damage to all vehicles involved in the accident.
- Injuries: Photograph any visible injuries you sustained as a result of the accident.
- Immediate Medical Attention: Seek medical treatment immediately after the accident, even if you feel fine. Medical records serve as proof of your car accident injuries and the treatments you received.
- Ongoing Treatment: Keep detailed records of all medical treatments, prescriptions, therapy sessions, and follow-up visits.
- Collect Contact Information: Gather names and contact details of any witnesses to the accident.
- Record Statements: If possible, write down or record their statements about what they saw. Witness testimony can be invaluable in corroborating your account of the accident.
- Expert Analysis: In complex cases, accident reconstruction experts can provide a detailed analysis of the accident. They use evidence such as vehicle damage, skid marks, and other physical evidence to recreate the accident and determine fault.
- Lost Wages: If the accident caused you to miss work, provide pay stubs, tax returns, or a letter from your employer to document your lost wages.
- Loss of Earning Capacity: For long-term injuries affecting your ability to work, gather evidence of your previous earnings and future earning potential.
- Journal: Keep a personal journal detailing your injuries, pain levels, and how the accident has impacted your daily life. This can help demonstrate non-economic damages like pain and suffering.
- Receipts and Bills: Save receipts and bills for all accident-related expenses, including medical costs, vehicle repairs, transportation, and any other out-of-pocket expenses.
- Insurance Policies: Gather information about your insurance policy and that of the other driver(s) involved. This includes policy numbers, coverage details, and any correspondence with insurance companies.
- Communication: Keep records of all communication with insurance companies, medical providers, and any other parties involved in your case. This includes emails, letters, and phone call logs.
Don’t feel daunted by this extensive list — we can remove the pressure from you. Contact us today for a free consultation to discuss your case and how we can assist you in gathering the necessary evidence.
Two Years to File a Claim
The statute of limitations is a critical aspect of filing a car accident claim. It sets the deadline for initiating legal action, and missing this deadline can result in losing your right to seek compensation.
In Texas, the statute of limitations for filing a personal injury lawsuit related to an auto accident is two years from the date of the accident.
While the two-year deadline applies in most cases, there are exceptions that can alter this timeframe:
- Discovery Rule: If your injuries or damages were not immediately apparent, the statute of limitations may begin from the date you discovered or reasonably should have discovered them.
- Minors: If the injured party is a minor, the statute of limitations typically begins when the minor turns 18. Therefore, they have until their 20th birthday to file a lawsuit.
- Government Claims: If your claim is against a government entity, special rules apply. You must file a notice of claim with the government agency within six months of the accident, and the lawsuit must be filed within the standard two-year period.
Your First Steps After the Car Crash
- Check for Injuries: Immediately assess yourself and others for any injuries. If anyone is seriously injured, call 911 for emergency medical assistance.
- Relocate Vehicles: If it is safe to do so, move your vehicle out of the traffic flow to prevent further accidents. Turn on your hazard lights to alert other drivers.
- Report the Accident: Contact the Lubbock Police Department or local Texas law enforcement to report the accident. Having an official police report is imperative for your insurance claim and any potential legal action.
- Gather Details: Exchange names, contact information, driver’s license numbers, license plate numbers, and insurance information with the other driver(s) involved in the accident.
- Obtain Witness Details: If there are any witnesses, get their names and contact information. Their accounts can be valuable for your claim.
- Take Photos and Videos: Use your smartphone to take pictures and videos of the accident scene, vehicle damage, road conditions, and any visible injuries.
- Seek Legal Advice: Contact a personal injury lawyer from our firm to discuss your case. An experienced attorney can help you understand your rights, gather the necessary evidence, and build a compelling case.
- Visit a Doctor: Even if you feel fine, it is important to seek medical attention as soon as possible. Some injuries may not be immediately apparent, and having medical records will support your claim.
- Report the Accident: Inform your insurance company about the accident as soon as possible. Provide them with the necessary details and cooperate with their investigation.
- Avoid Detailed Statements: Be honest but avoid giving detailed statements or accepting blame until you have consulted with a Lubbock car accident lawyer.
Our Fees — Pay Nothing Upfront
We understand that the financial burden of legal fees can be a significant concern for those seeking justice after a car crash. To make quality legal representation accessible, we operate on a contingency fee basis for personal injury cases.
- Risk-Free Representation: With a contingency fee arrangement, you don’t pay any legal fees upfront. We cover all the costs associated with building your case, including filing fees, expert witness fees, and investigation costs.
- No Win, No Fee: You only pay legal fees if we successfully secure compensation for you. Our fee is a percentage of the settlement or award we obtain on your behalf. If we don’t win your case, you owe us nothing.
- Motivated to Win: Our interests are directly aligned with yours. We are motivated to maximize your compensation because our payment depends on the success of your case.
- Clear Terms: At the outset of your case, we will provide a clear and detailed explanation of the contingency fee agreement. You will understand exactly what percentage of the settlement or award will go towards legal fees, so there are no surprises.
Example Scenario
Suppose you are awarded a settlement of $100,000. If the agreed-upon contingency fee is 33%, our fee would be $33,000, and you would receive the remaining $67,000. All costs and expenses we advanced would also be deducted from the settlement.
Why Choose Keith & Lorfing Over Other Lubbock Auto Accident Attorneys
When it comes to selecting legal representation for your auto accident case in Lubbock, TX, Keith & Lorfing stands out for several compelling reasons:
- Successful Outcomes: Our firm has a strong history of achieving favorable settlements and verdicts for our clients. With more than 500 jury trials under our belts, we know how to effectively advocate for justice in the courtroom.
- Decades of Expertise: With over 75 years of combined experience in personal injury law, our legal team has the knowledge and skills to handle even the most complex car accident cases. Our extensive background ensures that we can effectively navigate the legal system on your behalf.
- Client-Centered Care: At Keith & Lorfing, we understand the emotional and physical toll a car crash can take on you and your family. We are committed to providing compassionate support and treating our clients with the respect and dignity they deserve throughout the legal process.
- Tailored Approach: Every case is unique, and we believe in providing personalized attention to each client. Our attorneys take the time to understand the specific details of your situation and develop customized legal strategies that maximize your chances of a successful outcome.
- Unique Insights: Our team includes multiple attorneys who have served as state and federal prosecutors. This experience gives us valuable insights and a strategic edge in handling your car accident case.
- Recognized Excellence: Our dedication to legal excellence has earned us numerous accolades, including being named Best Lawyers in Abilene for 2023. These recognitions reflect our unwavering commitment to providing top-tier legal services.
- Timely Attention: We utilize modern business practices to ensure quick turnaround and response times. We understand the urgency of your situation and are committed to providing prompt and efficient legal services.
- Multiple Office Locations: To better serve our Lubbock community, we have offices throughout West Texas, making it easy for you to access our services. We offer both in-person and virtual consultations to suit your needs.
- Contingency Fee Basis: We operate on a contingency fee basis, meaning you pay nothing upfront. Our fees are only collected if we win your case, ensuring that you can pursue justice without financial risk.
- Robust Team: With a strong team of attorneys and support staff, we have the resources necessary to handle even the most demanding cases. Our collective expertise and teamwork ensure high-quality service and client satisfaction.
OUR STREAMLINED PROCESS
Other Locations We Serve
FASTER. SIMPLER. EASIER.
With access to your very own legal team, a network of medical professionals, and clear direction on how to maximize your recovery, we take the pain and hassle out of the equation:
- Step 1: Meet with our Legal Team – it’s free!
- Step 2: Seek Medical treatment – we’ll help.
- Step 3: Follow the checklist in your client portal.
- Step 4: We’ll Make ‘Em Pay!
- Step 5: Cash your check.
As expert Texas personal injury attorneys, we cover the entirety of West Texas, including but not limited to:
Injured in a Car Accident? Book a Free Consultation Today!
If you or a loved one has been involved in a car wreck in Lubbock, don’t wait to seek the legal assistance you need. Our experienced car accident lawyers are prepared to offer you compassionate and skilled representation to help you navigate this challenging time.
We provide a free initial consultation to discuss your case, answer your questions, and offer a clear understanding of your legal options. With no upfront costs and a dedication to achieving the best possible outcome for your case, you can trust Keith & Lorfing to be your advocate.
Contact us today to schedule your consultation and take the first step towards justice and recovery.
The Best
In the West
We have deliberately chosen to represent individuals and families, not corporations or the elite. Our focus is on helping family-oriented West Texans who are striving to give their children a better life.
Our attorneys come from humble beginnings and understand the value of hard work. Our fathers and grandfathers were farmers, mechanics, laborers, firefighters, and servicemen. These roots instill in us a deep commitment to serving the hardworking people of West Texas every day.
Often, this means standing up to big insurance companies that try to short-change you.
Sometimes, it involves challenging powerful oil companies that attempt to intimidate our clients. Regardless of the adversary, our mission remains consistent: to level the playing field for people like you and me.
This dedication to justice for hardworking Texans drives every decision we make, every client we represent, and every case we pursue. We are committed to standing by your side and fighting for your rights.
Trey Keith
Founding Partner Meet Trey
Russell Lorfing
Founding Partner Meet Russell
&
3 Things you’ll get With Keith & Lorfing
A Lawyer Will Answer Your Calls & Emails
You’ll Be Informed About Your Case Every Step of the Way
You’ll Be Treated With Compassion & Respect
Ask Russell a Question
At No Cost To You!
We’re committed to being the best in the West! Proudly serving clients throughout Abilene, Lubbock, San Angelo, Midland & all of West Texas.
