Yes, you should consider getting a lawyer, even for a minor car accident in Texas. While not all cases require legal assistance, an attorney can help ensure you’re fairly compensated for damages like medical bills, car repairs, and lost wages, especially if the insurance company disputes your claim.
Even for a minor car accident, having a lawyer can protect your rights. Contact our Abilene car accident lawyer today to discuss your case
Find out moreWhy hiring a small accident lawyer is a good idea
Even in small accidents, having an experienced lawyer can make a significant difference in the outcome of your claim. From protecting you against insurance tactics to ensuring fair compensation, an attorney handles the specifics of a claim, allowing you to focus on your recovery.
Protection against insurance tactics
Insurance companies often undervalue claims, delay payments, or deny liability to minimize payouts. Our attorneys at Keith and Lorfing understand these tactics and act as your advocate, handling all communication with the insurance company.
We negotiate aggressively to secure a settlement that reflects the full value of your damages, including medical expenses, property repairs, and lost wages.
Handling complicated legal procedures
Filing a claim involves more than paperwork—it requires gathering evidence, determining liability, and calculating damages. At Keith & Lorfing, we handle every aspect of your case, from investigating the accident to preparing and filing legal documents.
Acting promptly to protect your rights
Texas law requires personal injury claims to be filed within two years of the accident. Missing this deadline can forfeit your right to compensation.
Our team ensures all deadlines are met and acts quickly to preserve evidence, secure witness statements, and build a strong case on your behalf.
Ensuring fair compensation
Many small accidents have hidden costs, such as future medical expenses, therapy, or diminished vehicle value. We assess your claim’s true value, accounting for all current and future damages, including pain and suffering.
Managing paperwork and negotiations
Car accident claims involve a significant administrative burden, from insurance forms to repair estimates and medical records. At Keith & Lorfing, we handle all paperwork and negotiations with the at-fault party’s insurance company, allowing you to focus on recovering.
Peace of mind
Accidents, even minor ones, can be emotionally and mentally draining. The uncertainty of dealing with insurance companies and legal procedures adds unnecessary stress during an already difficult time.
Hiring a lawyer from our firm provides peace of mind, and knowing an experienced professional protects your interests. We can guide you through the process, answer your questions, and keep you informed, making you feel confident about the outcome.
Additional reading: who is at fault in a rear-end collision in Texas
Do you have grounds for a car accident claim?
If you’ve been in a car accident, you may have grounds to file a claim if you were injured and file within Texas’s two-year statute of limitations.
Meeting the following criteria ensures you can pursue compensation for your damages:
- You must have been injured: Physical, emotional, or financial harm from the accident is required to file a claim. Injuries, even minor ones like whiplash or concussions, should be documented by seeking prompt medical attention.
- File within the statute of limitations: Texas allows two years from the date of the accident to file a claim. Missing this deadline forfeits your right to pursue compensation.
- Why hire a lawyer for a minor accident? Even minor car accidents can involve hidden costs or disputes. An attorney can ensure fair compensation for medical bills, property damage, and pain and suffering.
After a car accident injury, hire a car accident lawyer by contacting us at 325-225-0143. Consulting an attorney from Keith & Lorfing ensures your rights are protected and increases your chances of a favorable outcome.
Let our Midland car accident lawyer review your case and help you decide what’s best for your situation. Contact us today.
How does a minor accident differ from a major one?
A minor accident, such as a fender bender, typically involves minimal vehicle damage and no severe injuries. In contrast, a major accident often results in significant property damage, serious injuries, or fatalities.
While minor accidents may seem straightforward, hidden injuries or insurance disputes can make seeking legal advice beneficial for both situations.
Common scenarios where having a minor car accident attorney is vital
Even in minor car accidents, certain situations make hiring an attorney critical to protecting your rights and ensuring you receive fair compensation.
Below are the most common scenarios where having legal representation is important:
Disagreement on fault
Fault disputes often arise in car accidents when the other driver or their insurer denies responsibility. Our attorneys gather key evidence, including police reports, witness statements, and traffic footage, to prove the other party’s liability.
We also challenge any unfair attempts to assign fault to you.
Serious injuries requiring long-term care
Injuries like whiplash or concussions may seem minor initially but can develop into long-term conditions requiring ongoing care. We ensure your claim covers all future medical expenses and related costs.
Our team consults medical experts to assess the impact of your injuries and strengthen your case for full compensation.
Insurance claim denials or lowball offers
Insurance companies often deny claims or offer settlements far below what’s needed to cover damages. We negotiate directly with insurers, using evidence to counter low offers and ensure you receive a settlement that reflects the true value of your medical bills, property damage, and other expenses.
Uninsured or underinsured drivers
If the at-fault driver has little or no insurance, recovering compensation can be challenging. We help clients explore other options, such as filing claims through uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage or pursuing legal action against the driver.
Our attorneys make sure you aren’t left paying out of pocket.
Property damage disputes
Disagreements about repair costs or vehicle valuation are common. We review repair estimates and appraisals to ensure fair compensation for your property damage.
If an insurance company undervalues your claim, we fight for the correct payout.
Accidents involving multiple parties
Multi-vehicle collisions can complicate liability. Our team identifies responsible parties, ensures fault is properly assigned, and negotiates with multiple insurance companies.
We simplify the process for you, ensuring you aren’t overwhelmed by competing claims.
Missed deadlines or procedural errors
Failing to meet the statute of limitations or filing requirements can result in losing your right to compensation. A lawyer from our firm ensures all deadlines are met and that your claim complies with Texas law.
We can handle the legal paperwork so you can focus on recovery.
Emotional distress and non-economic damages
Insurance companies often undervalue non-economic damages like pain and suffering, especially in minor accidents. An attorney calculates and includes these damages in your claim, ensuring that all aspects of your hardship are compensated.
A minor car accident can still lead to unexpected expenses and disputes. Contact our San Angelo car accident lawyer and let us help you protect your interests.
Steps to take following a minor car accident
Knowing what to do after a minor car accident can protect your safety and ensure a smooth claims process. Follow these key steps to address the situation effectively and safeguard your rights.
- Check for injuries: Ensure everyone is safe and seek medical help if needed.
- Move vehicles safely: Clear vehicles from traffic if possible to prevent additional accidents.
- Call the police: File a report, even for minor accidents, as it may be best for claims.
- Exchange information: Obtain the other driver’s contact, insurance, and license plate details.
- Document the scene: Take photos of damage, road conditions, and injuries.
- Gather witness details: Collect contact information from any witnesses.
- Notify your insurer: Report the accident to your insurance company promptly.
- Consult a lawyer from our law firm: Protect your rights and ensure fair compensation by seeking our legal advice.
How we can help you
At Keith & Lorfing, our skilled team of car accident lawyers provides dedicated support to help you recover after a minor car accident.
Here’s how we assist you:
Collecting and preserving evidence
We gather important evidence, such as police reports, medical records, accident photos, and witness statements, to establish the facts of your case. This information strengthens your claim and provides the foundation for fair compensation.
Dealing with insurance companies
Our attorneys communicate directly with insurance adjusters who may attempt to minimize your settlement. We push back against unfair offers and work to ensure you’re compensated for all accident-related expenses, including medical bills, repairs, and lost income.
Calculating full compensation
We evaluate the complete impact of your accident, including medical costs, future treatment needs, lost wages, and non-economic losses like pain, emotional distress, or PTSD. Our team ensures that all damages are properly accounted for in your claim.
Representing you in court
If the insurance company refuses to offer a fair settlement, we are fully prepared to take your case to trial. Our attorneys build a strong argument, backed by evidence and expert testimony, to fight for your deserved compensation.
Managing deadlines and paperwork
We handle every detail, from filing your claim to meeting court and insurance deadlines. This step ensures that your case progresses efficiently and avoids missed opportunities to pursue compensation.
Providing Clear, Expert Guidance
We help you understand your rights and options at every stage of your case. Our advice is tailored to your specific circumstances, giving you the confidence to make informed decisions about your claim.
Choosing the right lawyer for a minor car accident
When selecting a lawyer for a minor car accident, finding someone experienced, responsive, and committed to achieving the best outcome is fundamental.
At Keith & Lorfing, we pride ourselves on providing exceptional representation:
- Experience and expertise: Our attorneys, like Joel Wilks and Russell Lorfing, have successfully resolved cases involving disputes, injuries, and insurance claims. Whether handling tough negotiations or trial representation, we ensure every client receives skilled advocacy.
- Personalized attention: Clients consistently highlight our personal approach. For example, Lukas Moropoulos shared, “Joel made me feel comfortable during the entire process. I was more than just a client—I was important and a priority to them.”
- Proven results: Our track record speaks for itself. Sarah Blackburn praised the “very successful outcome in a timely fashion,” and Justin Romero described his “100% victory” across three cases, thanks to our firm’s dedication and thorough preparation.
- Clear communication: From start to finish, we keep clients informed and prepared. As Hayden Johnson stated, “Russell gives you his full attention and never makes you feel rushed.”
- Client trust and satisfaction: Clients recommend us time and again. Felipe Martinez said, “Hiring Russell was the smartest decision I’ve ever made. He exceeded all my expectations.”
The process when working with your attorney
At Keith & Lorfing, we provide comprehensive support for your car accident claim, guiding you through every stage to ensure the best possible outcome. Here’s how we help:
- Initial consultation: During a free case evaluation, we review your case details, identify potential claims, and discuss your options. This step is your opportunity to ask questions and learn how we can assist you.
- Evidence collection: Our team gathers key evidence, including police reports, medical records, photos, and witness statements, to build a strong foundation for your claim.
- Communication with insurance companies: We handle all discussions with the insurance company, preventing lowball offers and ensuring your claim is treated fairly.
- Damage assessment: We calculate the total value of your claim, including medical costs, lost wages, property repairs, and non-economic losses like pain and suffering.
- Negotiating a settlement: Our attorneys use evidence and experience to push for a fair settlement, ensuring that every aspect of your damages is covered.
- Filing a lawsuit if needed: If the insurance company refuses a reasonable settlement, we will prepare and file a lawsuit to pursue compensation in court.
- Trial representation: Should your case go to trial, we will present evidence, advocate on your behalf, and fight for the compensation you deserve.
Common misconceptions about hiring a lawyer
Many people hesitate to hire a lawyer after a car accident due to common misconceptions. Below, we address and debunk some of these myths:
- “Hiring a lawyer is too expensive.” Most car accident attorneys, including those at Keith & Lorfing, work on a contingency basis, meaning you don’t pay upfront. Legal fees are only collected if you win your case, making representation affordable for everyone.
- “I don’t need a lawyer for a minor accident.” Even minor accidents can result in hidden injuries or disputes over fault. A lawyer ensures all damages—like whiplash, property repairs, and lost wages—are accounted for, protecting your financial well-being.
- “The insurance company will offer a fair settlement.” Insurers often undervalue claims to minimize payouts. Having an attorney advocate for you ensures the settlement reflects the full value of your losses, including future medical expenses or non-economic damages like pain and suffering.
- “I can handle the paperwork myself.” Filing a claim involves more than filling out forms—it requires gathering evidence, knowing legal deadlines, and negotiating with adjusters. A lawyer manages these tasks, saving you time and stress.
Local laws and regulations in The Lone Star State
Texas is an at-fault state, meaning the driver responsible for the accident must pay for damages through their insurance.
Additionally, Texas follows modified comparative fault rules, allowing you to recover compensation as long as you are less than 51% at fault for the accident. However, your compensation will be reduced by your percentage of fault.
Texas also has a statute of limitations that requires personal injury claims to be filed within two years of the date of the accident. Missing this deadline may result in losing your right to compensation.
Minor car accidents can have a big impact. Speak with Lubbock car accident lawyer to understand your options and ensure you’re fully protected.
Need a minor car accident lawyer in Texas?
Even a minor car accident can have lasting effects on your health, finances, and peace of mind. If you’re facing medical bills, property damage, or disputes with the insurance company, having an experienced attorney on your side makes all the difference.
At Keith & Lorfing, we are committed to protecting your rights and helping you secure the compensation you deserve. Call 325-225-0143 to speak with a member of our team.
Let us handle the legal work so you can focus on moving forward.
Key takeaways
Legal representation can make a significant difference, even for minor car accidents. Hidden injuries, disputes over fault, and low insurance offers are common issues that a skilled attorney can help resolve.
Consulting a personal injury lawyer ensures you know your rights, explore your options, and receive the compensation you deserve.
FAQs
Do you have to call the police after a minor car accident in Texas?
Yes, you must call the police if the accident results in injuries, death, or property damage exceeding $1,000. A police report provides key documentation, protects your rights, and supports insurance claims.
Even in minor accidents, calling the police can prevent disputes and ensure proper legal compliance.
How long does it take to settle a car accident claim in Texas?
The time to settle a car accident claim in Texas varies from weeks to months, depending on injury severity, disputes over fault, and negotiations. Straightforward claims resolve faster, but problematic cases, especially those involving injuries, may take longer to ensure all damages are accounted for.
How much can someone sue for a car accident in Texas?
In Texas, the amount someone can sue for a car accident depends on the severity of injuries, property damage, and liability. Compensation may include medical expenses, lost wages, property repairs, and emotional distress.
What happens if you don’t report an accident in Texas?
Failing to report an accident in Texas involving injury, death, or damage exceeding $1,000 can lead to fines, penalties, or license suspension. A police report is also critical for proving fault and supporting insurance claims, making reporting essential for protecting your rights and legal standing.
