When Should You Get a Lawyer for a Car Accident in Texas?
You’re driving home after a long day when another car suddenly slams into yours. The impact jolts you forward, and everything becomes a blur. The next few moments—filing insurance claims, dealing with medical care, assessing vehicle damage—can feel like an overwhelming knot of questions and decisions. Among the chaos, one thought might cross your mind: Is it worth getting an attorney for a car accident? In Texas, the answer often hinges on the specifics of your case, but the right lawyer can protect your rights and maximize your compensation.
At Daws Legal, we believe you deserve more than just answers; you deserve results. Our team’s extensive experience—including million-dollar verdicts and confidential settlements—ensures you’re in capable hands. Keep reading for answers to questions like, Should I get an attorney after a car accident? and How long do you have to get a lawyer after a car accident? Then, contact us for a free consultation to learn more about how we can help.
Should I Get an Attorney After a Car Accident?
The short answer? Yes. Especially if your accident involves significant injuries, unclear liability, or uncooperative insurance companies. Here are a few situations when hiring an attorney is not just advisable but essential:
- Severe injuries. Catastrophic injuries like broken bones or spinal damage often come with extensive medical bills and long recovery periods.
- Disputed liability. If the fault isn’t immediately apparent, an attorney can investigate and gather evidence to support your claim.
- Insurance denials or low offers. Insurers may undervalue your claim to save money. A lawyer can negotiate for the settlement you deserve.
- Complex accidents. Multi-vehicle crashes require thorough analysis to determine who’s responsible.
- Legal deadlines. Texas law imposes a two-year statute of limitations on personal injury claims, so timely action is crucial.
When you hire an attorney, you’re equipping yourself with the knowledge and tools to navigate these challenges. At Daws Legal, we shoulder the burden of legal complexities so you can focus on healing.
How Long Do You Have to Get a Lawyer After a Car Accident?
As mentioned above, in Texas, you typically have two years from the date of your car accident to file a personal injury lawsuit. This timeline may seem generous, but waiting too long can weaken your case. Here’s why:
- Evidence fades—physical evidence like skid marks and vehicle damage deteriorates over time;
- Witness memories fade—the details witnesses recall become less reliable as months pass; and
- Insurance deadlines—some policies have internal reporting requirements, and delays can affect your claim.
The sooner you act, the stronger your case will be. Consulting with a lawyer early on ensures you do not overlook any critical details, and your claim remains on a solid legal footing.
Steps to Take After a Car Accident
Taking the right actions immediately after a crash can significantly impact your claim. Here’s what to do:
- Call the police—an official police report documents the accident and often includes fault assessments;
- Seek medical attention—even if you feel fine, some injuries, like whiplash or internal trauma, may surface later;
- Document the scene—capture photos of vehicle damage, road conditions, and any visible injuries;
- Exchange information—collect contact and insurance details from all involved parties; and
- Avoid admitting fault—stick to factual statements and avoid saying anything that could imply blame.
Following these steps lays the groundwork for a strong case. The Daws Legal team can build upon this foundation by gathering additional evidence, consulting experts, and negotiating with insurers.
Is It Worth Getting an Attorney for a Car Accident: What Can a Lawyer Do for Me?
Hiring an attorney after a car accident does more than alleviate stress; it enhances your chances of obtaining fair compensation. Here’s how Judson Daws and the Daws Legal team can help:
- Careful case evaluation. We analyze every detail of your accident to assess liability and determine potential damages.
- Meticulous evidence collection. From police reports to witness testimony, we gather the proof needed to support your claim.
- Aggressive negotiation. Insurers often aim to minimize payouts. We fight for the compensation you deserve.
- Skilled litigation. If negotiations stall, our courtroom experience ensures your case is trial-ready.
- Customized guidance. Every case is unique. We tailor our strategy to match the specific circumstances of your accident.
- Ongoing support. We provide consistent updates and clear communication so you always know where your case stands.
With over $20 million in settlements and verdicts, our results speak volumes about our commitment to justice.
Why Legal Expertise Matters
Car accidents often involve more than just immediate damages. Long-term implications like ongoing medical treatment, loss of income, and emotional distress can significantly affect your life. An experienced lawyer understands how to calculate these damages and build a compelling case. Without legal expertise, you may unknowingly accept an offer that doesn’t fully cover your needs.
However, not all law firms are created equal. At Daws Legal, we dig deeper to ensure we cover every aspect of your claim. We pride ourselves on:
- Relentless advocacy. Whether negotiating settlements or taking a case to court, we never back down from a challenge.
- Extensive local knowledge. With deep ties to Texas, we understand the unique challenges and nuances of state laws.
- Established expertise. Judson is board-certified in Personal Injury Trial Law, a distinction held by only a small percentage of Texas attorneys.
- Client-centered service. Transparency and empathy guide everything we do.
- Proven success. From Top 40 Under 40 to Pro Bono Attorney of the Year, our accolades reflect our dedication.
When you choose us, you choose a firm that fights tirelessly for your rights.
Act Now to Protect Your Rights: Contact Daws Legal
At Daws Legal, we understand the moments after a car accident can be stressful. Navigating the complex process of obtaining compensation for your damages is even more difficult. We’ll guide you through your options and take control of your situation. The right attorney can be the difference between a quick and fair settlement. Call us today for a free case review. Let us handle the legal battles while you focus on recovery. With Daws Legal, justice isn’t just possible—it’s within reach.
About the Author
Judson is a dedicated and experienced Personal Injury attorney with a passion for justice and a commitment to helping clients navigate complex legal challenges. With 30 years of experience in personal injury, he has successfully represented countless clients, securing favorable settlements and verdicts.
