If you’re injured in an accident possibly caused by negligence, talk to an attorney with experience in personal injury and negligence cases. Your lawyer will tell you about your legal rights, explain how the law may apply in your case, and discuss whether you may be entitled to compensation.

First, seek immediate medical attention. Only a medical professional can diagnose and treat your injuries. If you’re able, get witnesses’ names, take pictures or videos of the accident area, and contact your insurance company. Tell them the basic facts. Don’t say anything about being at fault for the accident. It’s imperative you immediately contact an experienced personal injury attorney. What is or isn’t done in the first days after an accident can change the outcome of your claim. You need an advocate before the other party’s attorney or insurance company contacts you or your family.

Only a seasoned personal injury lawyer can evaluate your claim. Many factors are considered: Who is more at fault for the accident, you or the other party? Was the other party negligent? How severe are your injuries? Did you lose wages? Is your future earning capacity reduced? Texas state statutes govern many aspects of your claim. Your lawyer will be knowledgeable in all aspects of personal injury, will assess your claim, and help guide you through the process.

It’s impossible to say what specific amount you may receive as damages (the harm you suffered measured in dollars), but we can give you an estimate. You may be entitled to compensation for: Short- and long-term medical expenses Lost wages Reduced future earning capacity Pain and suffering Emotional anguish Punitive damages Your case’s factual and legal issues must be evaluated so we can tell you your chances of success and what compensation might be awarded.

Anyone working for the insurance company is not protecting your interests. They may be friendly and professional and sound like they want to take care of you, but they’re trying to settle your case as quickly and cheaply as possible. Insurance companies make money by collecting premiums and paying as little as possible for claims. If you agree to a settlement, you may give up your rights to fair compensation. Once you sign a settlement agreement, you can’t go back later for more money. An expert personal injury attorney should speak on your behalf to an insurance company to protect your rights and prevent you from making costly mistakes.

You’ll meet with the lawyer for a free consultation and case evaluation. You’ll be asked about the accident and what happened afterward. The lawyer will evaluate your case and advise you if you have a legitimate claim. If you feel the attorney’s a good fit for you and your case, and the attorney wants to take your case, you’ll get a written representation agreement to review and sign. After you hire the attorney, they will contact the other party or their insurance company to tell them you have legal representation. Your lawyer will handle all future communications. They will thoroughly investigate your accident, gather any information you have, and determine who caused the accident, how, and why. Your attorney will be your advocate and ensure that your rights are protected. Your attorney will send the insurance company a demand along with supporting evidence. They will negotiate with the insurance company and probably reach a proposed settlement. You have the final say whether to accept it or not. Most cases settle, those that don’t go to trial.

Contingency is the basis of the payment arrangements between you and your lawyer. Generally, Texas personal injury lawyers work on contingency, and they’re paid a percentage of what their clients receive. Depending on your agreement, fees and costs of litigation may or may not be extra. The attorney will only be paid if you obtain compensation through a settlement or jury verdict. Make sure you understand the terms of your retainer agreement before you sign it. Ask questions about any section or language you don’t understand.