A car accident can completely turn your world upside down. A crash usually leaves you with pain and suffering, costly medical bills, and vehicle damage, but it can also lead to lost income and stress. If you or someone you love has been injured in an auto accident, you may be entitled to receive compensation for injuries and damages.
With our law firm on your side, you can focus on your recovery while our experienced attorneys handle the legal process for you. We will work hard on your behalf to seek the compensation you deserve.
If you or a loved one has been injured in a crash, call us for a free consultation with one of our San Antonio car accident attorneys.
What to Do Immediately Following a San Antonio Car Accident
Knowing what to do after being injured in a collision in San Antonio is crucial to your San Antonio personal injury case. In addition to contacting an experienced lawyer, taking the following steps will help ensure your rights are protected:
Seek Medical Attention
No matter how well you may feel after an auto accident, please go to the emergency room or see your doctor. In many car accident cases, victims do not immediately feel the full extent of their injuries because of the adrenaline that rushes into their bloodstream after the crash. Because adrenaline masks their pain, these victims may not understand the extent of their injuries until days or weeks later.
Suppose a victim files a claim against the driver responsible for their injuries once they realize they are hurt. In that case, the driver’s insurance company may argue that the victim is lying or faking their injuries because the victim did not immediately go to the hospital to seek treatment.
Do not put yourself in this predicament. Instead, seek medical treatment immediately after a motor vehicle collision.
Document the Incident
When you file a claim for a car, truck, or motorcycle accident, you have the burden of proof to show that the other party was negligent. You must present evidence that the negligent party was careless or broke the law. To prove your case, you must substantiate your claim with evidence. Evidence often includes photographs, medical bills, and witness statements.
Be sure to always document and retrieve evidence from a crash scene. After a motor vehicle collision, the police will generally complete a car accident report. The police report often determines who is legally at fault.
Be sure to get the name, address, license number, plate number, and insurance information from all the drivers involved in the crash. Also, if an involved motorist was driving for an employer at the time of the collision, you should also obtain the name and contact information of the driver’s employer.
Witness testimony is often very important in car wreck cases. If there were witnesses to the crash, you should also get their names and contact information. If witnesses took photographs or video recordings of the crash, ask them for copies. If you have a camera or smartphone with you, photograph the scene, including the road and the damage to both vehicles.
Keep Receipts and Invoices
You should keep track of and document any costs that arise from the car accident. For instance, you will need to document any medical bills. If you cannot work due to a car wreck, you should retain your paystubs to show how much “lost wages” you incurred. Estimates for vehicle repairs are also important.
It’s always a good idea to start a folder for proof of accident-related expenses, such as receipts, paystubs, estimates, and invoices.
Notify Your Insurance Company
Regardless of whose fault an accident is, you should always contact your own insurance company, as your insurer can get the ball rolling with the claims process. However, do not make the mistake of signing any settlements or any other paperwork you do not understand.
If you contact us immediately, we can contact your insurer and start the insurance claim process for you. While you will likely need to report the incident to your own insurance company within 24 hours, please be especially careful when dealing with the other party’s insurer. No matter how nice an adjuster seems, they are not on your side and will try to use what you say to minimize your damages or deny your claim.
You should also refrain from signing a release or settlement agreement without contacting us first. Settling with an insurance company may make it impossible for you to seek any additional compensation you may be entitled to. Please talk to us first.
John (Jack) Zinda
Founder / CEO
Over 100 years of combined experience representing injured victims across the country.
Available 24 / 7|Free ConsultationWhat Not to Do If You’re Involved in a Car Crash
There are actually several things to avoid in the moments, days, and weeks following a collision. Here’s what you should not do:
- Do not apologize for the accident, as this may be considered an admission of guilt.
- Do not admit to causing the collision or make any other statement that could later be used to support an argument that you caused the crash.
- Do not leave the crash scene without contact and other pertinent information from the other driver or drivers.
- Never leave the scene until the police have completed their investigation and permitted you to leave (unless you have serious injuries that require you to go to the emergency room).
- Do not discuss the incident or your personal injury case with the other driver.
- Do not speak with the other party’s insurance company without an attorney present.
- Do not sign anything from an insurance company without consulting with an experienced car accident lawyer.
Neil Solomon
Partner
Real results matter. We do not get paid unless we win your case.
Available 24 / 7|Free ConsultationCommon Incidents
Car accidents can range in severity and involve automobiles, trucks, motorcycles, or even bicycles. Therefore, the resulting personal injury claims demand a tough and dedicated injury lawyer.
Our lawyers handle a wide range of claims, including:
- Drunk driving accidents
- Commercial vehicle accidents
- Uber and Lyft incidents
- Accidents with uninsured drivers
- Multi-vehicle accidents
- Rear-end collisions
- Head-on accidents
- Hit and runs
- Underinsured motorist accidents
- Distracted driving incidents
- Wrongful death
These are just a few examples of the types of incidents that our dedicated injury lawyers handle. Whether you have been involved in a multi-vehicle accident, a rear-end collision, a head-on collision, a hit-and-run, or any other incident resulting in injuries, our lawyers have the knowledge, skills, and determination to fight for your rights and help you navigate the legal process.
In cases of wrongful death resulting from a car accident, our compassionate lawyers will provide the support and guidance you need to pursue a wrongful death claim on behalf of your deceased loved one.
Jason Aldridge
Attorney
Standing by 24 hours a day, 7 days a week ready to answer in your time of need.
Available 24 / 7|Free ConsultationCommon Injuries
Car accidents can result in a wide range of injuries, some of which can have long-lasting effects on the victims. Familiarizing yourself with the injuries that may occur in car accidents is important to understand their potential impact on your health and well-being.
Here are some common car accident injuries:
- Whiplash: A neck injury that occurs when the head is forcefully jerked back and forth, causing strain on the neck muscles and ligaments.
- Neck and shoulder injuries: Besides whiplash, car accidents can cause neck strains, sprains, and shoulder dislocations, leading to pain and limited mobility.
- Head trauma: Head injuries can range from mild concussions to severe traumatic brain injuries, potentially leading to cognitive impairments and other long-term complications.
- Broken bones and fractures: Breaks can occur in various bones and may require surgery or immobilization.
- Back and spinal cord injuries can lead to chronic pain, paralysis, or loss of sensation and function in different body parts.
- Internal injuries and organ damage: Internal bleeding or injuries to vital organs can be life-threatening and may require immediate medical intervention.
- Cuts, bruises, and lacerations: These superficial but potentially serious injuries can range from minor cuts and bruises to deep lacerations requiring stitches or surgical repair.
- Psychological and emotional trauma: Car accidents can result in emotional distress, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), anxiety, depression, or other psychological injuries.
- Knee and leg injuries: Impact or force during a car accident can lead to fractures, ligament tears, or other injuries affecting the knees, legs, or feet.
It is essential to seek immediate medical attention if you have been injured in a car accident, even if your injuries initially seem minor. Some injuries may have delayed symptoms and require proper diagnosis and treatment.
CASE RESULTS
Cole Gumm
Attorney
We are here to ensure you won’t have to face this difficult time alone.
Available 24 / 7|Free ConsultationSan Antonio Intersections Where Accidents Are Likely to Occur
Accidents are unfortunately common in San Antonio, and many of these crashes can be attributed to negligent drivers. That said, collisions are more likely to happen in dangerous intersections.
Here is a list of some of the potentially dangerous intersections in San Antonio:
- Braun Road and Loop 1604
- Bandera Road and Loop 1604
- I-10 and Loop 1604
- Ingram Road and Loop 410
- Loop 1604 and San Pedro Ave
What Our Injury Attorneys Can Do for You
Our San Antonio car accident lawyers will perform a complete investigation separate from the one done by the police. We look for clues as to the true causes of the accident and work to hold the person accountable. In addition, we will help you determine the value of your claim and negotiate with the insurance companies to seek full and fair compensation for your damages.
Regardless of the size of your case, our law firm will always give you our undivided attention. One of our team members will advise you of your legal rights and ensure you don’t make any common mistakes that could jeopardize a claim. We will use our years of experience representing car accident victims and resources to seek the best possible outcome for you.
In addition, our auto accident lawyers work on a contingency basis, so you don’t have to worry about fees, court costs, or litigation expenses unless we win. Our firm is dedicated to helping you win your case, so if we don’t win, you don’t pay!
Get Started With Your Initial Consultation
If you or a loved one were injured in a motor vehicle collision, consult one of our car wreck attorneys in San Antonio as soon as possible. The sooner you consult and hire a lawyer, the better, as evidence is more likely to be available immediately after an accident than it will be later.
Witnesses and law enforcement, who may have responded, may forget things over time, so your lawyer must be able to contact them while the memories are fresh. Your case will likely proceed in the following order:
- Investigation: Your auto accident attorney will examine the facts and evidence pertaining to the collision, including witness statements, photos, and medical documentation. This will help your attorney determine potential liability and whether negligence played a role in the accident.
- Negotiation: Once your attorney has gathered all the possible evidence and documentation, they will attempt to negotiate a settlement with the insurer. They will present the insurance company with a settlement amount, and the insurer will counter with an offer of their own. This may go back and forth until a settlement can be agreed upon.
- Trial: Most claims are settled out of court. However, sometimes a settlement cannot be reached through negotiations. In that situation, the case may eventually go to trial to determine the amount of compensation you may recover.
Liable Parties in a Texas Motor Vehicle Collision
Multiple parties can be responsible for a collision, including the following:
- Other motorists: The driver who caused the car accident is the most common party held liable for most types of car accidents. After a collision caused by another driver, you or your lawyer must show that they negligently caused the accident, such as by speeding or running a red light.
- Employers: Employers may sometimes be at fault if the driver who caused the accident was acting within the scope of their employment at the time of the accident or driving the employer’s vehicle.
- Parts or vehicle manufacturers: Manufacturers may sometimes be at fault if a defective part or vehicle causes a car accident.
- Government entities: Government entities are generally only liable if a car accident was caused by their failure to maintain the roads properly.
Texas Car Accident Laws
You should be aware that Texas requires its drivers to carry insurance that covers these minimum amounts:
- $30,000 per injured person
- $60,000 per accident (for injuries)
- $25,000 per accident (for property damage)
You should also be aware that Texas courts use the modified comparative fault principle when determining how much compensation a victim may be entitled to. This rule states that if an injured victim was 51% or more at fault for an accident, they may be entitled to less or no compensation.
However, if the victim is found to be 50% or less at fault for the accident, their compensation may be reduced by the fault percentage. For instance, if the jury awarded you $200,000 in compensation but also found that you were 50% at fault, then the actual amount of money you may be entitled to would be $100,000.
Our Awards
AWARDED TO JOHN C. (JACK) ZINDA BY THE NATIONAL TRIAL LAWYERS ASSOCIATION (2016-2020)
AWARDED TO JOHN C. (JACK) ZINDA (2009, 2011-2012, 2014-2021), & NEIL SOLOMON (2020-2021)
AWARDED TO JACK ZINDA (2016-2020)
LIFETIME MEMBERS JOHN C. (JACK) ZINDA
Car Accident Compensation
You may be entitled to compensation for economic and non-economic damages in a car accident claim. However, the amount recoverable for these damages may differ depending on if the victim is an adult or a child.
- Medical costs: You may be entitled to compensation for your medical expenses. This includes diagnosis, treatments, visits to specialists, and medications. If you have a chronic injury or one requiring further treatment, you may also be able to claim compensation for future treatments.
- Property damage: You may be able to seek compensation for property damages, such as a damaged vehicle. These losses may include the cost of replacing a vehicle that cannot be repaired, which is usually the fair market value of your vehicle at the time of the collision.
- Lost wages: If you cannot work due to injuries caused by a car accident, you can seek compensation for lost wages.
- Permanent disability: The consequences of a serious car accident may limit your ability to work, drive a car, or participate in social activities. You may be compensated for this profound loss if your injury is permanent.
- Loss of future earning potential: If you cannot return to work due to your injuries preventing you from performing your normal duties, or a loved one has died due to a car accident, you may be able to claim compensation for loss of earning potential.
- Pain and suffering: If you have been injured in a car accident, you may be able to claim compensation for the pain and anguish, both physical and emotional, suffered as a result of your injuries.
- Wrongful death: If a loved one died due to a car accident, you might be able to seek compensation for final expenses, loss of companionship or consortium, and other damages.
How Long do I Have to File a Claim?
The statute of limitations in Texas for personal injury cases is two years from the accident date per the Texas Civil Practice and Remedies Code §16.003. This means you have a two-year window to file a claim for compensation for damages.
After the statute of limitations expires, if you attempt to file a claim, it is highly unlikely the claim will be successful and most likely will be dismissed. One exception is when a child, or minor, under 18 is involved. If a child is involved in a car accident, the statute of limitations on their claim may not begin until they reach the age of 18 and become a legal adult.
Compensation awarded to children is also handled differently than that awarded to adults. If a child receives compensation in a car accident case, the compensation will usually be split.
The compensation awarded for economic damages, such as medical bills, is usually released immediately to cover those expenses. In contrast, any compensation awarded for non-economic damages, such as pain and suffering, may be held in trust by the court until the child turns 18 when it will be released to them.
How Much does a Lawyer Charge After a Car Accident?
Our law firm accepts cases on a contingency basis. This means that you will not owe anything upfront, and the payment for our services will be deducted from the final settlement. If we can’t settle your case, you won’t owe anything.
This allows you to secure our legal representation without paying out of pocket.
How Much Compensation Can You Get After a Car Accident?
The compensation you may be entitled to will depend on various factors, such as whether your injury will cause a permanent or temporary inability to move.
Our personal injury lawyers have helped thousands of accident victims get their lives back on track after an auto accident. In addition, we have the knowledge and resources necessary to help you pursue maximum compensation for damages, such as pain and suffering and emotional anguish.
Our firm also operates on a contingency fee basis, which means you pay nothing unless we achieve a favorable settlement, judgment, or verdict for your auto accident case. That’s our no-win, no-fee guarantee.
Please get in touch with us to discuss the particulars of your case.
Get Your Free Consultation
You have a limited time to file a lawsuit, so don’t wait another moment to get the legal help you need after a car accident. Our experienced team of San Antonio personal injury attorneys understands the challenges you may be facing, and we are here to provide you with personalized guidance and support.
Reach out to Zinda Law Group today to schedule your free consultation, and let us fight for your rights. You don’t have to face this challenging time alone. Our compassionate legal team is here to advocate for you and guide you through every step of the legal process. So call now or contact us online to get started.
Jason Aldridge
Attorney
We have successfully represented clients in a wide variety of cases across the country.
Available 24 / 7|Free Consultation
