Car Accident Attorney In Mesquite, Texas: Strong Representation for Victims of Careless Drivers
Texas consistently ranks among the most dangerous states for motor vehicle accidents. In 2021, the Texas Department of Transportation reported a 15.22% increase in fatal crashes, with one person dying every two hours and someone getting injured every two minutes. If you’ve been hurt in a car accident in Texas, it’s crucial to know how to recover compensation and protect your rights. The car accident lawyers at Oberg Law Office, located in Mesquite, are here to assist you with your personal injury claim.
What Causes Most Car Accidents In Texas?
Most multi-vehicle accidents in Texas stem from intoxicated or distracted drivers. Drivers with a blood alcohol content (BAC) of 0.08% or higher cannot legally operate a vehicle, yet many do. In 2021, intoxicated drivers caused 1,077 fatalities.
Distracted driving accounted for one in five crashes that year. Activities like texting, eating, or applying makeup divert attention from the road, putting everyone at risk. A distracted driver can cover the length of a football field at highway speed without looking up, making them unable to react to changing traffic conditions.
Common Injuries from Car Accidents
Injuries from car crashes can range from minor bruises to serious conditions like spinal injuries and head trauma. Factors like speed and seatbelt use play significant roles in injury severity. Common injuries include:
- Soft Tissue Injuries: Damage to tendons, ligaments, and muscles can result in road rash, bruises, or whiplash. While many are painful, they are not life-threatening. However, serious soft tissue damage can lead to internal bleeding.
- Head Trauma: A significant impact can cause concussions or traumatic brain injuries (TBIs). While concussions are often treatable at home, TBIs can result in lifelong disabilities, affecting daily activities and cognitive function.
Even if you feel fine after an accident, it’s vital to see a medical professional. Some injuries, like whiplash or concussions, may not show symptoms for days or weeks.
Who Is Financially Responsible For My Car Accident?
If another driver caused your accident, they are typically liable for your damages. You can file a personal injury claim through their insurance. If the at-fault driver is underinsured or uninsured, you may need to file a claim with your own insurance.
In some cases, you might consider pursuing a personal injury lawsuit if the insurance claim is denied or insufficient. Mesquite car accident attorneys can guide you on your best options for compensation.
Can I Still Get Compensation Even If I Was Partially At Fault?
Being partially at fault for your accident does not disqualify you from compensation in Texas. Under modified comparative negligence rules, you can still seek damages as long as you are not more than 50% at fault. However, your compensation may be reduced based on your percentage of fault. For example, if your award is $10,000 and you are 20% at fault, you would receive $8,000.
What Damages Can Car Accident Victims Claim?
Car accident victims can seek both economic and non-economic damages. Economic damages cover tangible losses, such as vehicle repairs, medical bills, and lost wages. If injuries lead to permanent disabilities, you can also claim loss of future earning ability.
Non-economic damages address the emotional impact of an accident, including pain, suffering, and loss of enjoyment of life. In cases of gross negligence, punitive damages may also be available to penalize the at-fault party.
How Can An Experienced Car Accident Lawyer Help?
After a car accident, navigating insurance claims and legal processes can be overwhelming. Insurance companies often seek to minimize payouts, making it essential to have experienced representation.
At Oberg Law Office, attorney Gregg Oberg and his team have successfully assisted numerous car accident victims throughout Texas. As an expert car accident lawyer, he can handle your case, so you can focus solely on recovery. Call us today to discuss your case and explore your options.