Yes. And I’ll tell you exactly why that matters more than most people think.
Look, I’m from West Texas. I know how people around here handle things. After a wreck, you don’t want to make a big deal out of it. You check on the other driver, make sure everyone’s okay, and when someone asks how you’re doing, you say: I’m fine.
Maybe you are. In that moment.
But here’s what’s happening inside your body: it’s flooded with adrenaline. A natural painkiller. A really effective one. So at the scene, you genuinely don’t feel hurt. You mean it when you say you’re okay.
Then three days later, you wake up and your neck is locked. Your head is pounding. There’s numbness in your arm that wasn’t there before.
And that’s when the insurance company shows up with a question: “Why didn’t you go to the doctor sooner?”
That’s not concern. That’s a strategy. They’re using your own toughness against you.
Your body is flooded with adrenaline — a natural painkiller, and a very effective one.
Stiffness starts. Most people still write it off as soreness from the impact.
Locked neck. Headaches. Numbness in an arm that wasn't there before. Soft tissue injuries rarely show on day one.
Every day between the crash and your first doctor visit becomes their argument.
You waited because you didn't know you were hurt. That distinction is exactly what we fight for — and it's a lot easier to prove with a same-day medical record than without one.
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
Here’s the honest truth that nobody in the insurance industry is going to tell you: they’re not on your side.
They’re not your friend. They’re a business. And the less they pay you, the more they keep.
They also know something about West Texans. We’re tough. We don’t complain. We try to handle things ourselves. And when the adjuster calls, we’re polite.
They count on all of that.
When you hire Keith & Lorfing, you hand that whole problem to us. We deal with the adjusters. You deal with getting better. That’s the arrangement.
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
Two things you need to know about timing in Texas. The first one everyone knows. The second one almost nobody talks about and it’s the one that actually costs people money.
The deadline you know: two years from the date of your accident to file a personal injury claim. Under Texas Civil Practice and Remedies Code § 16.003, miss that window and you’re done. No exceptions.
The one nobody talks about: don’t settle before you’ve reached MMI.
MMI — maximum medical improvement. In plain English: your doctor says your condition has stabilised. Either you’ve fully recovered, or you’ve improved as much as you’re going to.
Here’s why that matters. Your settlement is supposed to cover everything — every surgery, every round of therapy, every injection that’s still coming.
But once you sign a release? That case is closed. Forever. If you need back surgery six months from now, you’re writing that check yourself.
So when the insurance company is pushing you to wrap this up quickly — and they will — ask yourself one question: have I reached MMI yet? If the answer is no, you’re not ready to sign anything. Save that.
Our team acts immediately on evidence preservation and every legal deadline. We also make sure you’re never pushed into signing before the full picture is clear.
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 are honestly a mountain of work. Medical records. Insurance forms. Repair estimates. Adjuster calls. Deadlines you don’t know about until you miss them.
All of it lands on your plate while you’re trying to recover from a wreck you didn’t cause.
We take all of it. That’s the job. You shouldn’t be on the phone with an insurance adjuster two days after a crash. We should.
Peace of mind
People tell us all the time: the stress after the accident was almost worse than the injury itself.
The voicemails from the other driver’s insurance company you don’t know whether to return. The wondering if you said the wrong thing. The not knowing what happens next.
When you work with Keith & Lorfing, that stops. A lawyer answers your calls. A lawyer answers your emails. We tell you what’s happening with your case — what the other side is doing, what we’re doing about it, and what to expect next.
You’ve got enough to deal with. The legal side is on us
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) 480-8100. 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.
Types of Compensable Damages in a Texas Car Accident Claim
Type of Damage | What It Covers |
|---|---|
Medical bills | ER, doctor visits, specialist appointments, prescriptions |
Future medical costs | Ongoing treatment, physical therapy, injections, surgery |
Lost wages | Income you couldn’t earn while you were recovering |
Property damage | Vehicle repair or replacement, diminished resale value |
Pain and suffering | Physical pain, emotional distress, anxiety, PTSD |
Loss of enjoyment | Quality of life you lost — activities, hobbies, daily function |
How does a minor accident differ from a major one?
Here’s where people go wrong.
They get into what seems like a minor accident — cars aren’t totalled, nobody’s unconscious, they feel rattled but not broken and they think: this doesn’t really count.
It counts.
The human body doesn’t always know it’s been hurt right away. Soft tissue injuries don’t always show up on day one. Concussions can be subtle. Spinal damage can occur in a low-speed rear-end collision that left barely a scratch on your bumper.
Additional reading: What to do after a car accident that’s not your fault in Texas
Spinal damage can happen in a low-speed rear-end collision that left barely a scratch on your bumper. What the car looks like says nothing about what happened to you.
Minor vs Major Accident Comparison
accident
- ·Visible damage: usually under $5,000
- ·Injuries at the scene: often none — adrenaline masks the pain
- ·Delayed injury risk: high — soft tissue damage is common and slow to surface
- ·Liability disputes: common
- ·Insurance challenges: yes — adjusters still minimize payouts
- ✓Attorney recommended: yes
accident
- ·Visible damage: often $10,000 or more
- ·Injuries at the scene: usually immediate and apparent
- ·Delayed injury risk: lower — injuries are less likely to be overlooked
- ·Liability disputes: common
- ·Insurance challenges: yes — higher financial stakes
- ✓Attorney recommended: yes
Your full claim value, undiminished.
Your recovery drops by your exact share of blame.
You recover nothing at all.
The only column that changes is the damage estimate. The law, the deadline, and the adjuster's incentive don't.
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
The other driver says you cut them off. Their insurance company is saying you’re 30% at fault. Suddenly, a clear-cut situation isn’t.
In Texas, your share of fault reduces your compensation directly. Found 30% at fault on a $100,000 claim? You walk away with $70,000. Found more than 51% at fault? You walk away with nothing.
That math is why fault disputes matter. Our attorneys dig up the evidence — police reports, camera footage, witness accounts — and challenge every attempt to push blame your way. We’ve done this before. We know the playbook.
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 — everyone’s, including yours. If you feel any pain at all — any — say something. Adrenaline will tell you you’re fine. Don’t listen to it on this one.
Move vehicles safely — get out of traffic if it’s safe to do so. A secondary accident is the last thing you need right now.
Call the police — every time. Even if both drivers agree there’s nothing major. A police report is documentation that’s very hard to dispute later. You’ll be glad you have it.
Exchange information — name, insurance carrier, licence plate, contact number. Get it all, even if they seem cooperative.
Document everything — both vehicles, the road, the intersection, traffic signs, nearby security cameras. Take more photos than you think you need.
Get witness information — name and phone number from anyone who saw what happened.
Report to your insurance company — but do not give a recorded statement to the other driver’s insurer. Not yet. Talk to us first.
See a doctor — even if you feel okay. Especially if you feel okay. Injuries from car accidents routinely take 24 to 72 hours to surface. The people who skip this step almost always regret it later.
Call Keith & Lorfing at 325-225-0143 — before you give any recorded statement to any insurance company.
How we can help you
Here’s what actually happens when you call Keith & Lorfing.
Our attorneys have handled car accident cases across West Texas for years — Abilene, Lubbock, Midland, San Angelo. We know the courts. We know the judges. And we’ve sat across the table from every insurance tactic you can think of.
Here’s how we use that.
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
If something’s keeping you from picking up the phone, it’s probably one of these four things. Let’s go through them.
“Hiring a lawyer is too expensive.”
Keith & Lorfing works on contingency. That means you pay us nothing unless we win. No retainer. No hourly rate. Zero upfront. If we don’t recover anything for you, you don’t owe us a thing. That’s not a promotion — that’s how we operate.
“I don’t need a lawyer for a minor accident.”
I hear this one a lot. And I understand it. West Texans don’t want to be the person making a big deal out of something that doesn’t seem like a big deal.
But here’s what you’re not accounting for: adrenaline. Right after the crash, your body is masking pain. You feel okay. You say you’re okay. The insurance company logs that. Then three days later, the pain hits — neck, back, headaches — and they want to know why you waited.
You didn’t wait because you were lying. You waited because you didn’t know you were hurt. That’s a really important distinction. And it’s exactly the kind of thing we fight for.
“The insurance company will offer a fair settlement.”
Let me be plain about this: the insurance company’s job is to pay you as little as possible. That’s not cynicism. That’s business.
The first offer is a floor. Not a ceiling. Most people accept the floor and never know what they left on the table. We make sure you know.
“I can handle the paperwork myself.”
You can. But you’d be negotiating against people who do this every single day. They know every deadline, every question designed to get you to say something that weakens your position.
We know all of it too. That’s exactly the point.
Local laws and regulations in The Lone Star State
Here’s what Texas law actually says — no legalese.
Texas is an at-fault state. The driver who caused the accident is on the hook for paying damages through their insurance. The Texas Department of Insurance sets the minimum coverage all Texas drivers are required to carry. If the at-fault driver is underinsured or uninsured, there are still options, but you need an attorney to help you find them.
Texas uses modified comparative fault. Here’s what that means in real terms: if you’re found 20% at fault and your damages are $100,000, you recover $80,000. If you’re found more than 51% at fault, you get nothing. This is exactly why insurance companies try to establish your share of blame early. They know the math.
You have two years. That’s the statute of limitations under Texas Civil Practice and Remedies Code § 16.003. Two years from the date of the accident — not the date you found out how badly you were hurt. Miss it and your case is over. No matter how good it was.
According to the Texas Department of Transportation’s Crash Records Information System tens of thousands of crashes happen on Texas roads each year. West Texas communities — Abilene, Lubbock, Midland, San Angelo see a significant share of those every single year. We see them every week.
Speak with Lubbock car accident lawyer to understand your options and make sure nothing falls through the cracks.
Need a minor car accident lawyer in Texas?
Look, the accident already happened. You can’t change that.
What you can change is what happens next.
The adrenaline has worn off. The pain is real. The bills are coming. And on the other end of the phone is an insurance company that’s already working to figure out how little they can pay you.
At Keith & Lorfing, we’re West Texas. Our attorneys were born here, practice here, and have spent their careers fighting for people exactly like you — hardworking West Texans who got hurt through no fault of their own and just want to be treated fairly.
Call 325-225-0143 today. No charge for the call. No obligation. Just a straight conversation with an attorney who knows this state, knows these courts, and knows how to win. That’s the promise.
Key takeaways
Here’s what you should walk away from this page knowing.
→ Adrenaline is a liar. You can walk away from a crash feeling fine and be seriously injured. See a doctor immediately and document everything.
→ Don’t settle before MMI. Maximum medical improvement — wait until your doctor says your condition has stabilised. Once you sign a release, it’s over. Anything you need after that point, you’re paying for yourself.
→ The first offer is a test. It is almost never the right number. It’s what the insurance company hopes you’ll accept before you talk to an attorney.
→ Your own words can hurt you. Every statement you make without an attorney is potential ammunition. “I’m fine” at the scene becomes a weapon. Hire someone before you say anything recorded.
→ Call 325-225-0143. No cost. No obligation. Just a real conversation with attorneys who know West Texas.
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.
