What Does a Houston Car Accident Lawyer Do?

After a car accident, you might wonder what a car accident lawyer does and whether you need one. A car accident attorney helps injured victims navigate the complex legal process while fighting for fair compensation. 

When you are running searches for “A car accident attorney near me,” understanding their role can help you decide if hiring legal representation is right for your situation.

Investigate Your Car Accident Case

A car accident lawyer begins by thoroughly investigating your crash. They gather crucial evidence to build a strong foundation for your case.

Key investigative steps include:

  • Collecting police reports and official accident documentation
  • Interviewing witnesses and recording their statements
  • Taking photographs of the accident scene and vehicle damage
  • Working with accident reconstruction experts to analyze the crash
  • Determining vehicle speeds, points of impact, and driver actions

These specialists can provide technical analysis that establishes the cause of the fault. Strong evidence makes the difference between winning and losing your case.

Deal with Insurance Companies

Insurance adjusters prioritize protecting their company’s bottom line over your best interests. They use various tactics to minimize payouts or deny valid claims.

Common insurance company strategies include:

  • Making lowball settlement offers before you know the full extent of injuries
  • Requesting recorded statements to use your words against you
  • Claiming you were partially or fully at fault for the accident
  • Delaying the claims process, hoping you’ll give up
  • Disputing the necessity of medical treatment

A car accident law firm understands these strategies and counters them effectively. Your attorney communicates with insurance companies on your behalf and prevents you from making statements that could hurt your case.

Calculate the True Value of Your Claim

Many accident victims underestimate the full value of their damages. 

Your damages may include:

  • Medical expenses, including future treatment costs
  • Lost wages and reduced earning capacity
  • Property damage to your vehicle
  • Pain and suffering
  • Emotional distress and mental anguish

A car accident attorney knows how to calculate both economic and non-economic losses. They ensure you seek compensation for all your injuries and losses.

File Your Personal Injury Lawsuit

Most car accident cases settle without going to court. However, your attorney must be prepared to file a lawsuit if negotiations fail. Texas law typically gives you two years from the accident date to file a personal injury lawsuit.

The lawsuit filing process involves drafting and submitting legal documents to the court. Your attorney serves these documents to the defendant and their insurance company. This formal legal action often motivates insurance companies to make better settlement offers.

Conduct Discovery and Gather Evidence

If your case proceeds to litigation, the discovery phase allows both sides to gather information. Your car accident attorney uses various legal tools to build your case.

Discovery often uncovers information that strengthens your position. Medical records document the financial and personal costs of your injuries, while employment records can prove lost wages. Your attorney knows what evidence matters most and how to obtain it.

Negotiate a Fair Settlement

Most personal injury cases resolve through settlement negotiations rather than trials. Your car accident law firm leverages evidence and legal expertise to negotiate effectively. They understand what similar cases have settled for and use that knowledge in negotiations.

Insurance companies make initial offers that are typically far below fair value. Your attorney pushes back with counteroffers supported by evidence and legal arguments. This back-and-forth continues until a fair settlement is reached or the parties decide to go to trial.

Represent You in Court

If settlement negotiations fail, your case may go to trial, where your car accident attorney will present your case to a judge or jury. 

Trial preparation involves extensive work. Your lawyer prepares you for testimony, develops a trial strategy, and anticipates defense arguments. Most accident attorneys have courtroom experience and understand how to present cases persuasively.

Provide Support Throughout The Process

Beyond legal work, a car accident attorney provides guidance and support during a difficult time. They answer your questions, update you on case progress, and explain complex legal concepts. You’re not alone in this process.

Contact Our Houston Car Accident Lawyers at Omar Khawaja Personal Injury Lawyers for a Free Consultation

Don’t navigate the complex legal system alone. Our Houston car accident attorneys have the knowledge, resources, and skills to achieve the best possible outcome. Your recovery is too important to leave to chance. Call Omar Khawaja Personal Injury Lawyers to schedule a free consultation.