Imagine you’re driving through Cypress, Texas, relishing the day’s accomplishments, when your life changes in the blink of an eye. Another vehicle collides with yours, leaving you with not just physical injuries but also emotional and financial burdens. Another situation may involve a collision with another motor vehicle except you’re a passenger in an Uber vehicle.
Regardless of the situation, you’re suddenly thrust into a complex legal landscape, facing mounting medical expenses and insurance claims. At Simmons & Fletcher, P.C., we understand the whirlwind of challenges that you are currently facing. With years of experience handling cases like these and being well-versed in Texas personal injury law, our team of auto accident attorneys is committed to guiding you during this difficult time. That is why we offer a no-obligation consultation to discuss your unique situation and help you understand your rights and options.
Our focus is not just on legal advice but also on providing the resources and support you need to recover and move forward. Contact a Cypress car accident lawyer from Simmons & Fletcher, P.C. today: (713) 932-0777.
Why Choose Simmons & Fletcher, P.C.?
When you’re grappling with the aftermath of a car accident, you need a dedicated team that understands all facets of personal injury law and jurisdictions in Texas. That’s where Simmons & Fletcher, P.C., comes into play.
With over 40 years of experience serving Houston and its surrounding cities and towns, our injury law firm has earned a reputation for providing top-notch legal services tailored to meet each and every one of our clients. Our Cypress car accident lawyers are not just skilled in the courtroom; they’re compassionate individuals committed to helping those injured every step of the way.
From the moment you request a free consultation, you will find that our approach is client-centric as we attentively listen to your concerns, review your case meticulously, and offer personalized legal advice aimed at securing the best possible outcome for you and your loved ones.
To learn more, contact us so a Cypress auto accident lawyer can offer you a free case review: (713) 932-0777.
Understanding Car Accident Laws in Cypress
In a country where auto vehicles are the primary mode of transportation for households, Texas does not stand alone in terms of its share of accidents. In fact, the Texas Department of Transportation documented 15,299 serious injury crashes in 2022. Beyond this startling number, it’s important to understand that there are laws in place to protect those who have been harmed by at-fault drivers.
When involved in a car accident in Cypress or anywhere in Texas, it’s crucial to understand the state’s specific laws and regulations that could impact your personal injury case. Texas operates under a “fault” car insurance system, as outlined in the Texas Transportation Code § 601.051. This means the driver responsible for causing the car accident is also responsible for any resulting harm. Additionally, if you’re injured as a passenger in a rideshare service like Uber, you’re covered under the company’s insurance policy as mandated by the Texas Insurance Code § 1952.101 – § 1952.107. In terms of formalities and what you need to pursue your claim, you should speak with a Cypress Uber accident lawyer.
The 51% Rule: Modified Comparative Negligence
Texas follows the “modified comparative negligence” rule, commonly known as the 51% rule. This means the injured party can only recover damages if you are less than 51% at fault for the accident.
Statute of Limitations
One of the most critical legal considerations in Texas is the statute of limitations. According to the Texas Civil Practice and Remedies Code § 16.003, adults have typically two years from the date of the accident to file a lawsuit. Filing your claim beyond this deadline could mean forfeiting your right to seek compensation.
The Importance of Prompt Legal Action
Time is of the essence when it comes to personal injury claims. The sooner you consult with a Cypress car accident lawyer, the better your chances of gathering vital evidence, speaking with witnesses, and building a strong case.
Types of Car Accidents and Common Types of Injuries
Understanding the specific type of car accident you’ve been involved in is crucial for your personal injury case in Cypress. Different types of accidents often result in varying injuries, affecting both the medical treatment you may need and the compensation you may seek.
Rear-End Collisions: These common accidents often result in injuries like whiplash and back pain. In more severe cases, victims may experience severe injuries such as head injuries and spinal cord damage.
Head-On Collisions: Particularly dangerous, head-on collisions can result in severe or even fatal injuries. Injuries also fractured sternum, include broken bones, internal bleeding, and traumatic brain injuries (TBIs). A head-on collision lawyer is critical to help you pick up the pieces from one of these severe collisions.
Side-Impact Collisions: Also known as T-bone accidents or broadside collisions, these accidents often lead to injuries affecting the chest, pelvis, and head due to the point of impact. Broken ribs and internal injuries are also common.
Multi-Vehicle Accidents: wrecks involving multiple vehicles can result in a wide range of injuries, from minor scrapes and bruises to severe burns, fractures, and in catastrophic cases, death. It is important to remember that a crash may not be limited to cars. A truck, a motorcycle, a cyclist, or even a pedestrian may also be involved in these types of collisions.
What to Do Immediately After a Car Accident
The moments following a car accident in Cypress can be disorienting and stressful. However, knowing the right steps to take may significantly impact the outcome of your personal injury case.
- First Seek Medical Attention: Even if you feel fine, some injuries may not manifest symptoms immediately. This may be similarly applied to a loved one who has endured the crash at the same time as you. Make sure to obtain medical records as this may be crucial for your case.
- Gather Evidence Following the Crash: Take photos, collect contact information from witnesses, and obtain a police report. This information will be invaluable when you consult with a Cypress car accident lawyer.
- Never Settle Immediately with Insurance Companies: They often employ tactics to minimize their liability. That is why it’s vital to first consult with an experienced attorney before speaking with an insurance adjuster. At Simmons & Fletcher, P.C., we handle all communications with insurance companies, ensuring that your rights are protected and that you receive the fair compensation you need for your medical expenses, lost wages, and other losses.
Following a Car Accident: Compensation and Damages You May Be Entitled To in Cypress, TX
Types of Compensation
Compensation can be categorized into economic and non-economic damages.
Economic damages
Under Texas Law (Civil Practice and Remedies Code § 41.001), economic damages are defined as “compensatory damages intended to compensate a claimant for actual economic or pecuniary loss; the term does not include exemplary damages or noneconomic damages.” These may include:
- Medical Expenses: Costs of medical treatment, surgeries, hospital stays, doctor visits, and future medical care related to the injury.
- Lost Wages: Earnings lost due to the inability to work during recovery. This can also include lost earning capacity if the injury affects the ability to earn in the future.
- Property Damage: Costs to repair or replace damaged property, such as a vehicle in a car accident.
- Rehabilitation Costs: Expenses for physical therapy, occupational therapy, and other forms of rehabilitation.
- Out-of-Pocket Expenses: Any additional costs incurred as a direct result of the injury, such as medications, medical equipment, or transportation to medical appointments.
- Funeral Expenses: In a wrongful death case, the costs of funeral and burial services can be considered economic damages.
Non-economic damages
Unlike economic damages, these damages do not have an easy-to-pinpoint dollar amount and are subjective in nature. Non-economic damages may include, but are not limited to:
- Pain and Suffering: Physical pain and emotional distress experienced due to the injury.
- Emotional Distress: Psychological impacts, such as anxiety, depression, or trauma, resulting from the injury.
- Loss of Consortium: Loss of companionship or affection, with a spouse due to the injury.
- Loss of Enjoyment of Life: Reduced ability to enjoy daily activities, hobbies, or other aspects of life.
- Disfigurement: Permanent scarring, burns, or other physical changes that affect appearance.
- Physical Impairment: Long-term or permanent limitations on physical abilities.
- Inconvenience: The disruption to daily life and activities caused by the injury.
- Reputational Damage: In some cases, damage to one’s reputation may be considered a non-economic loss.
As there is very little way to determine what is considered a fair amount to be awarded for non-economic damages, the Cypress auto accident lawyers at Simmons & Fletcher, P.C. have put forward their astute legal knowledge and experience to help clients calculate a fair settlement.
Combining compassion with the determination to obtain what is rightfully due to their clients, the Cypress personal injury attorneys from Simmons & Fletcher, P.C. are willing to explore all legal avenues available to ensure that they get the best results for their clients. If you or a family member has recently suffered an injury as a result of a car accident, you should depend on a team that will hold the at-fault party accountable for their actions. Contact our law office today for a free case evaluation: (713) 932-0777.
How A Cypress Car Accident Attorney from Simmons & Fletcher, P.C. Can Help You?
Dealing with the aftermath of a car accident is overwhelming, but you don’t have to go through it alone. At Simmons & Fletcher, P.C., our Cypress auto accident attorney team is here to provide the legal support and guidance you need.
From the moment you request a free consultation, our focus is on you. We listen to your concerns, review your case meticulously, and offer personalized legal advice. Our team has the resources and legal knowledge needed to handle even the most complex personal injury cases. And our case results reflect this.
We understand that each case is unique, and we tailor our approach accordingly. Whether you’re dealing with insurance companies, medical expenses, or difficulties understanding how to file a lawsuit, we are here to provide you with the information you need so that you know more about the next steps to take.
Our ultimate goal is to secure the best possible outcome for you, ensuring that you receive the compensation you may be entitled to for your injuries and losses. As we work on a contingency fee basis, we want to ensure that our clients get what they rightfully deserve. To learn more about your legal options, contact us for a free consultation: (713) 932-0777.