Vehicle accidents are always traumatic experiences. They can bring about extensive physical, psychological, and financial damage that can last for months if not years. In times like these, family and friends might offer some support. Long-term, however, it won’t suffice. Someone must be held accountable for their actions; someone needs to pay for the damage done.
The Conroe auto accident attorneys at Simmons and Fletcher, P.C. have spent over 40 years protecting the interests of Texas victims and their families. We are professionals who do this for a living. You can rely on us for expert counsel and advocacy through every step of the process.
Whether you were struck by a drunk driver, involved in a hit-and-run, or affected by any other type of motor vehicle accident, our experience and legal representation can make all the difference. Call (713) 932-0777 now to speak with a Conroe auto accident attorney about your case.
What sort of damages can I expect to recover?
Following a car crash, you may be due some financial compensation. This can fall into two main categories: economic and non-economic damages.
Economic damages refer to expenses such as medical bills and lost wages — costs that can be easily quantified. Non-economic damages, on the other hand, refer to losses without a specific monetary value, such as emotional distress, pain and suffering, and any reduction in quality of life.
Rarely, if the case involves particularly reckless or willful behavior, punitive damages may also be awarded. These damages are not intended to reimburse you for specific losses, but rather as a form of punishment; to ensure that such negligent behavior is not repeated.
Causes of car accidents in Conroe, TX
Cars are powerful machinery, but they are also extremely dangerous. We often forget that they bear nearly two tons of heavy metal, running on high-powered engines fueled by copious amounts of gasoline. It is no wonder that motor vehicle accidents are still the number one cause of death in the United States.
Some of the most widely reported common causes of motor vehicle accidents include:
Speeding
Speeding is the number one cause of traffic fatalities, in Texas and across the United States. It accounts for almost 30% — one in three — of all road deaths. In a speeding vehicle, the driver has less time to react if something goes wrong. Faster speeds are also more likely to lead to more serious injuries due to the greater force of impact in a collision.
Reckless driving
This includes behaviors such as weaving in and out of traffic, running red lights, tailgating, failing to yield right-of-way, and speeding.
Distracted driving
Whether it’s talking on a cell phone or texting, any behavior that diverts our attention away from the wheel can spell danger. Even seemingly innocuous activities like eating, drinking, or attending to passengers can lead to tragedy.
Driving under the influence of drugs and/or alcohol
Alcohol and/or drug-related crashes are among the most devastating because these are completely preventable. Unfortunately, drunk driving still accounts for more than 10,000 road fatalities every single year in the United States.
Fatigued drivers
Driving while fatigued is just as dangerous as driving drunk. Long hours or lack of sleep can impair a driver’s reaction time and judgment, greatly increasing the likelihood of a collision.
Poor road conditions
Poor roadway design and maintenance can lead to accidents. Even simple oversights like poor signage can lead to a crash. If the government agency responsible for the roads was negligent in its duties, then it may be held liable for any resulting injuries or property damage.
Adverse weather
Rain, snow, high winds, and other inclement weather can limit visibility and contribute to an increased risk of a crash.
Vehicle malfunction
Even the best-maintained car can experience an unexpected and potentially dangerous malfunction. This could be anything from a flat tire to a faulty brake system.
Common auto accident injuries
Auto accidents can cause a wide range of injuries, from minor scrapes to disabling and life-threatening conditions. Even if you do not immediately feel hurt after a crash, you should still be checked out by a doctor as some injuries do not reveal themselves until hours or days afterwards.
Here are some common auto accident injuries:
Road rash
Road rash is the general term for skin abrasions caused by harsh contact with the pavement or other objects on the road. This can be a serious injury if the abrasion is deep and open, as it is vulnerable to infection.
Cuts and lacerations
Cuts and lacerations can occur from any loose objects, broken glass, or debris. These injuries can range from minor scrapes to deep gashes, with the latter often requiring stitches.
Whiplash and other neck injuries
Whiplash occurs when the muscles, tendons, and ligaments in your neck are stretched due to sudden whipping motions. Whiplash can occur even at modest speeds of 20 mph, and is relatively common in rear-end collisions — more than 2 million Americans experience it every year.
Broken bones and fractures
Vehicle collisions can result in broken bones and fractures, especially to the arms, legs, feet, and hands. The risks become more pronounced in side- and front-impact collisions. Victims often suffer from severe pain and limited mobility, making daily life difficult.
Concussions and head injuries
Head injuries can range from mild bumps and bruises to more serious traumatic brain injuries (TBIs). The latter can cause long-term damage to the brain and can impair memory, movement, and speech. Even a seemingly small bump on the head may have hidden consequences — all the more reason to seek medical care immediately after an accident.
Back and spinal cord injuries
These can range from small strains and sprains to herniated discs and fractures. Spinal cord injuries are potentially the most severe outcome following an auto accident and can result in paralysis or other long-term mobility issues.
Burns
Skin contact with hot fluids, surfaces, steam, or chemicals (common when a car catches fire) can cause severe burns. Victims may need to undergo multiple surgeries and a lengthy rehabilitation period. They may also walk away permanently scarred, both physically and psychologically.
Internal injuries
Internal injuries are those that are not visible from the outside. They include damage to the bone structures such as the sternum and lungs and to your organs, such as the lungs, liver, spleen, and kidneys.
If you have been injured in a Conroe car accident, the skilled attorneys at Simmons and Fletcher, P.C. Injury & Accident Lawyers are here to help. Our legal team has experience litigating auto accident cases involving any type of injury. We will take an in-depth look at the facts and evidence of your case, and work with investigators to establish fault and causation. We can also work with medical authorities and financial advisors to assess the extent of your injuries — both present and future — and make sure you are fully compensated for your losses. As we work on a contingency fee basis, you do not owe us anything unless we secure a just settlement for you.
Winning your auto accident claim
If you have been injured in an accident caused by another driver’s negligence, you may have the right to pursue a personal injury claim. But to win your claim, you need to establish liability. This means that you must prove that another person or entity was legally responsible for the car accident that caused your injuries.
Here are three things your lawyer will need to establish:
- The other party had an obligation to act with a reasonable level of care.
- The other party has failed to fulfill that duty of care (negligence), which resulted in the car accident.
- Any injuries or property damage sustained are directly connected to the breach of duty.
Legal representation will be your deciding factor in fighting for the compensation you deserve. If you or a loved one has been in an auto accident in Conroe, Texas, (or the surrounding Houston area) reach out to our attorneys immediately. Phone in at (713) 932-077 to learn about your legal options through a free consultation.
Do I have to go to court to get a fair settlement?
Not likely. Most personal injury cases are worked out without going to court. In fact, less than 5% of these cases ever reach a courtroom. Most law firms, us included, will aim to settle pre-trial through negotiation with the other party’s insurance provider. However, sometimes getting sued over a car accident in Texas is the only thing that wakes the insurance company up to the fact that you are serious about your case. We are prepared to file a lawsuit when necessary.
We understand the burdens of court proceedings — the costs, stress, and inconvenience they bring. That is why our Conroe auto accident lawyers work hard to settle disputes outside of court, quickly and equitably. But when negotiation is not an option, we won’t hesitate to litigate on your behalf in court. We have tackled powerful opponents in the past, and we will not back down until you get the fair outcome you deserve.
How much will a Conroe auto accident attorney cost me?
Following an auto accident, many injured victims often hesitate to obtain legal help, concerned about costs. Here at Simmons and Fletcher, P.C. Injury & Accident Lawyers, our team of Conroe auto accident attorneys believes that everyone deserves access to justice — no matter their financial situation. That is why we work on a contingency fee basis. You will not pay a dime unless we win your case. And if we do, our fee comes out of your settlement — nothing more.
According to the American Bar Association, car accident lawyers typically charge anywhere from 33.3% to 40%. However, in more complex cases — or if the matter needs to go to trial — the fee might go higher. Before doing anything, first discuss your situation with a qualified attorney; not only to get a better grasp on the specifics of your case, but also to get a better estimate of what the final cost may be.
We are transparent about our fees. Questions, big or small, are welcome. Reach out at (713) 932-0777 to find out how we can support you. Or fill in our contact form.
Do I need to hire a personal injury lawyer if I already have insurance?
An attorney can help determine the true value of your case and negotiate on your behalf for a fair deal that is in line with your policy terms. Often, simply having legal representation is usually enough to make insurance companies take you more seriously.
You need to understand that insurance companies aren’t necessarily there to help you after an accident. And they often look out for their own interests — at the expense of yours. Even if you have a legitimate claim, negotiating with an insurer can be a long, and often fruitless process. They may go to great lengths to limit how much they pay on claims, going as far as to reject them entirely. They may also very well try to convince you to settle for less than your claim is worth.
If you have any doubts whatsoever as to the fairness or validity of a settlement offer, do not hesitate to seek counsel from Simmons and Fletcher, P.C. Injury & Accident Lawyers. Do not settle for less! Get your case reviewed by a top-notch Conroe car accident attorney today.
Why do I need a Conroe auto accident attorney?
If you have been injured, a car accident lawyer can help you seek the fair and just compensation you deserve. At Simmons and Fletcher, P.C. Injury & Accident Lawyers, our experienced attorneys have provided over 40 years of tireless advocacy to auto accident victims. We spare no effort in helping our clients secure appropriate compensation — even if that means going to court.
A Conroe car accident lawyer from our law firm can help to:
- Identify the at-fault parties;
- Gather evidence to prove negligence so you can receive the proper damages;
- Negotiate with the other driver’s insurance company for a full, fair settlement;
- Explain your rights and keep you well-informed throughout the process;
- Work with medical providers to ensure you have the best conditions for recovery;
- Take your case to court, if needed, against insurers who are undervaluing or denying your claim.
Get counsel. Get a friend. Get our Conroe auto accident lawyers.
Need advice after a car accident? Consult with a team of experienced personal injury attorneys at Simmons and Fletcher, P.C. to get an honest assessment of the legal options pertaining to your case.
We handle all types of motor vehicle accidents, across various practice areas, including motorcycle accidents, truck accidents, bus accidents, train accidents, bicycle accidents, and pedestrian accidents. We also represent personal injury cases due to premises liability and wrongful death.
Contact (713) 932-0777 to schedule your free case evaluation today.