Austin Car Accident Lawyer
If you are injured in a car accident in Austin, Texas, you need a skilled personal injury lawyer on your side. The dedicated team at McMinn Personal Injury Lawyers is committed to helping you seek justice and fair compensation for your injuries and losses. With deep roots in the Austin community, we pride ourselves on offering personalized, compassionate support to each client.
Whether you’re dealing with insurance companies or medical bills, our Austin car accident lawyers are here to guide you every step of the way, ensuring your rights are protected, and your voice is heard. Your recovery is our priority, and we’re ready to fight for you. Call us today at (512) 474-0222 to get a free consultation.
How McMinn Personal Injury Lawyers Can Help You After A Car Accident In Austin
For nearly two decades, McMinn Personal Injury Lawyers has been dedicated to advocating for injured clients, backed by a team of attorneys with a combined 40 years of experience ready to fight for your rights. Founded by brothers Jason and Justin McMinn, our firm brings a family-oriented approach to personal injury law, ensuring that each client receives the compassionate and skilled representation they deserve.
Some of our accomplishments include but are not limited to:
- Justin McMinn has been recognized as a SuperLawyer Rising Star since 2013
- Justin McMinn has been recognized as a superior Trucking Trial Lawyer and admitted into the Trucking Trial Lawyers Association’s “Top 10” list since 2017.
- Jason McMinn was selected for inclusion among America’s Top 100 Personal Injury Attorneys in 2022
- McMinn Personal Injury Lawyers was selected by Attorney and Practice Magazine as a Top 10 Law Firm in 2021
- A drunk driving accident case we handled was on the list of #1 Verdicts in Texas by TopVerdict.com in 2017
- A child injury case we handled secured one of the Top 50 Settlements in Texas by TopVerdict.com in 2016.
When you hire us, you can expect personalized attention and care dedicated to your car accident case. Our Austin personal injury attorneys have strong track records of helping seriously injured clients seek resolutions and settlements. When you hire McMinn Personal Injury Lawyers, you can trust that we will help you by:
- Listening intently to the details of your accident
- Gathering evidence
- Negotiating with the insurance company on your behalf
- Keeping lines of communication open and updating you during every step of your case
- Being available to answer any questions you may have
- Fighting to dispel any accusations of blame you may face
- Working with leading experts
- Negotiating a settlement or taking your case to trial if necessary
- Fighting to get you the compensation you deserve
No matter what support you need during this difficult time, we can help.
Why Should I Hire A Car Accident Lawyer?
While you might be able to navigate a car accident claim yourself, it is not often in your best interest. When you hire a lawyer with McMinn Personal Injury Lawyers, you are getting a professional whose job and passion it is to fight for your rights. The following are just a few of the reasons you should consider hiring a lawyer:
Level The Playing Field
Insurance companies know all the tricks to try to get you to settle for less than what you deserve. With vast resources and legal expertise at their disposal, it takes a lot to intimidate them. When you enlist experienced legal help, you gain knowledgeable advocates who understand the intricacies of insurance laws and negotiations. Your attorney will be able to fight back against the insurance company’s tactics and negotiate on your behalf, ensuring that you are fairly compensated and don’t fall prey to the uneven power dynamics insurance companies take advantage of.
Access To Experts
A key benefit of hiring a lawyer is gaining access to a network of experts who can bolster your claim. From accident reconstruction specialists to medical professionals, these experts can provide critical insights that can support and strengthen your claim. Your lawyer will be able to enlist professionals to analyze the details of your accident, assess your injuries, and evaluate the accident’s long-term impact on your life. This testimony can add credibility and clarity to your situation.
Protection Against Allegations Of Blame
As discussed further below, Texas takes a modified comparative approach to contributory fault. Under this regime, you may not recover any compensation if you are more than 50% at fault. Insurance companies and opposing parties often attempt to shift liability to mitigate their financial responsibility, using various tactics to pin the fault on you. A skilled attorney will be able to counter any claims of fault you face and protect your ability to recover as much compensation as possible.
Time To Rest And Recover
After a car accident, you might feel overwhelmed by the stress of dealing with insurance claims, medical bills, and legal intricacies. Having a lawyer to handle these stressors for you means you will gain invaluable time to rest, recover, and heal from your accident. Your attorney will handle the details of your case, from negotiating with insurance companies on your behalf to gathering necessary evidence so you can focus on yourself. With a personal injury attorney on your side, you can feel secure in knowing your case is in capable hands.
Contact our office today to learn more about how retaining a car accident lawyer can help you throughout the legal process of a personal injury claim.
How Much Money Can I Get From A Car Accident Case?
The value of your case depends on many factors. No two cases are exactly alike, and speaking with an attorney is the best way to get an idea of how much your case might be worth. To determine the value of your case, our attorneys will consider factors such as:
- The severity of your injuries
- How long your recovery took, and any long-term health impacts you face
- The cost of your medical treatment and rehabilitation
- Your ability to return to work and earn a living
- The emotional effect your injuries have had on you
- The strength of the evidence supporting your case
We will conduct a thorough investigation and calculate your damages to the best of our ability. Our goal is to help you recover maximum compensation for all of the losses you suffered.
How Long Do I Have To File A Car Accident Case?
Texas’ statute of limitations for personal injury cases is two years. This means that you have a limited timeframe after your accident or injury occurs to file a personal injury lawsuit if you wish to seek compensation for your injuries and damages. Failing to initiate legal action within this period can result in losing your right to pursue your claim altogether. There are select factors, however, that can influence how long you have to file. Therefore, it is essential that you are aware of this deadline and speak with an attorney to discuss your particular timeline. Your car accident lawyer will ensure you meet your deadlines and protect your rights.
What Type Of Compensation Is Available After A Car Accident?
In Texas, you may be entitled to compensatory damages designed to cover both your economic and non-economic losses.
Economic Damages
Economic damages compensate you for monetary losses. These losses are typically concrete and fairly easy to quantify. They might include:
- Medical expenses
- Lost wages
- Diminished earning capacity
- Out-of-pocket costs
- Rehabilitation and therapy costs
Make sure that you keep all of your bills and receipts, as these will come in handy as you try to prove what economic losses you have suffered.
Non-economic Damages
Non-economic damages address subjective losses and are often more difficult to quantify when compared with their economic counterpart. These might include:
- Pain and suffering
- Emotional distress
- Mental conditions
- Loss of enjoyment of life
- Loss of companionship
In rare cases, you might be able to get punitive damages. Punitive damages are damages designed to penalize or punish the defendant rather than to compensate the victim.
Contact our team today to speak with an attorney who can help you assess the full extent of your losses and ensure you seek the full amount of compensation you deserve.
How Much Does It Cost To Hire A Car Accident Lawyer?
Many personal injury lawyers work on a contingency fee basis, and our firm is no different. This means that instead of charging hourly rates or upfront fees, your attorney will only get paid if they win your case or reach a favorable settlement. Typically, the attorney will take a percentage of the total recovery amount.
This system allows clients to pursue legal action without the burden of immediate costs. Additionally, it aligns the lawyer’s interests with the client’s–your attorney will be motivated to maximize your compensation. By eliminating upfront costs, contingency fees allow individuals who might not otherwise have the money to hire a lawyer to seek justice after an accident.
Can I Get Compensation If I Was Partly At Fault For My Car Accident?
Texas’ modified contributory fault rules mean that you may recover compensation as long as you are not found to be more than 50% at fault for your injuries, but your reward will be reduced proportionally. For example, if you are found to be 20% at fault, your final monetary award will be reduced by 20%. You must also be aware that if you are assigned 51% or more of the blame, you will not be entitled to recover any compensation for your injuries.
It is common for insurance companies and opposing parties to try and place the blame on you to reduce their own liability and have to pay out less. Your lawyer with McMinn Personal Injury Lawyers will be able to fight any allegations of fault you face, ensuring that you receive the maximum compensation possible.
Will My Car Accident Case Go To Trial?
Whether a car accident personal injury case goes to trial often depends on several factors, including the specifics of the case, the willingness of both parties to negotiate, and the extent of the injuries involved. Many cases are resolved through settlement negotiations before reaching trial, as both plaintiffs and defendants generally prefer to avoid the time, expense, and uncertainty of a courtroom battle. Insurance companies often play a significant role in this process, and they may be motivated to settle claims efficiently to minimize payouts.
However, if the parties cannot agree on a fair settlement, or if the case involves complex legal issues, substantial damages, or disputes over liability, it may proceed to trial. In such situations, a jury will evaluate the evidence presented, determine fault, and decide on the compensation owed to the injured party. Factors such as the strength of the evidence, the credibility of witnesses, and the potential biases of a jury can all influence whether a case goes to trial or is settled beforehand. Ultimately, the decision to go to trial is often a strategic one, made based on the unique circumstances of each case.
What Should I Do After A Car Accident In Austin?
After a car accident, it’s crucial to remain calm and take several important steps to ensure safety and protect your legal rights. You should:
- Check for injuries: Assess yourself and others for injuries and call 911 if anyone is hurt or if there is significant property damage.
- Move to safety: If safe, move vehicles out of traffic to prevent further accidents.
- Exchange information: This should include the names, contact details, insurance information, and license plate numbers of all parties involved.
- Document the scene: Take photos of the vehicles, any visible injuries, and the surrounding area, as this evidence can be vital later on.
- Avoid admitting fault: Even if you believe you may be at fault, it’s best to let insurance companies and law enforcement assess the situation.
- Contact your insurance company to report the incident: You’ll need to do this if you want to file a claim with your insurer.
- Consult with a personal injury attorney. An attorney can provide valuable guidance, especially if there are disputes about liability or injuries.
Taking these steps can help ensure that your rights are protected and that you receive any compensation you may be entitled to.
Types of Car Accident Claims We Handle
Our firm has handled many different types of car accident claims. No two accidents are alike, and each comes with its own complexities and circumstances. Some examples of car accident cases in Texas we handle include:
- Rear-end collisions
- T-bone accidents
- Head-on collisions
- Drunk driving accidents
- Multi-vehicle accidents
- Uninsured/underinsured motorist claims
In addition to car accident cases, we also handle cases involving motorcycle, pedestrian, bicycle, and truck accidents. Regardless of the specifics of your accident, contact our firm and let us discuss how we can help you.
Who Could Be Liable For My Injuries Resulting From A Car Accident?
In a car accident case, liability can fall on multiple parties, depending on the circumstances of the accident. Key parties that may be held liable include:
- The driver: If the driver was negligent, distracted, or under the influence, they can be directly responsible.
- The vehicle owner: If the driver was operating someone else’s vehicle, the owner may share liability, especially if they permitted an unfit driver to use their car.
- Manufacturers: If a vehicle defect contributed to the accident, manufacturers of the vehicle or its parts could be held liable.
- Government entities: If poor road conditions or a lack of proper signage contributed to the accident, local or state government agencies might be responsible.
- Pedestrians or cyclists: If these parties acted recklessly or violated traffic laws, they might also share liability for the incident.
Determining liability often involves thoroughly investigating the actions of all parties involved. Our skilled team can help find any potential liable parties and hold them accountable for your injuries.
Common Types Of Car Accident Injuries
Car accidents can lead to a variety of injuries, some of which can have long-lasting effects. Common types of car accident injuries include:
- Whiplash: A neck injury caused by the sudden movement of the head, often leading to pain and stiffness.
- Fractures: Broken bones can occur in various parts of the body, particularly the arms, legs, and ribs, due to impact forces.
- Concussions or Traumatic Brain Injuries (TBIs): Brain injuries resulting from the head striking an object or experiencing a violent jolt, leading to symptoms like headaches and confusion.
- Soft tissue injuries: Sprains and strains in muscles, ligaments, or tendons that can result from the impact or sudden movement.
- Lacerations: Cuts and abrasions that may occur from broken glass or contact with other objects during the crash.
- Back injuries: Damage to the spine or discs can result in chronic pain and mobility issues.
- Wrongful death: Wrongful death of a loved one is a very real possibility that can stem from a car accident.
These injuries can vary in severity and may require extensive medical treatment and rehabilitation. Your attorney will be able to help you quantify all of your injuries and losses and get you compensated for them.
Most Common Causes Of Car Accidents
Car accidents in Austin, Texas, happen for many reasons. Understanding how actions happen is the first step to preventing them. Some of the most common causes of car accidents are:
- Distracted driving: When a driver engages in any activity while driving that impairs them, they are violating the law and potentially endangering others on the road.
- Impaired driving: Drivers impaired by drugs or alcohol are unable to safely operate their vehicles.
- Drowsy or fatigued driving: Getting behind the wheel when tired can be as dangerous as being under the influence.
- Vehicle malfunctions: Accidents can happen even when all drivers involved are exercising caution and following the rules of the road due to vehicle malfunctions. If a vehicle malfunction caused your accident, you might also be entitled to damages from the vehicle manufacturer.
- Other factors: Weather conditions, speeding, and traffic conditions are other factors that might increase the likelihood of being in an accident.
In conclusion, car accidents in Austin, Texas, stem from a combination of factors, including distracted and impaired driving, fatigue, vehicle malfunctions, and adverse weather or traffic conditions. Understanding these causes is crucial for promoting safer driving practices and reducing the risk of collisions on the road.
Austin Car Accident Statistics
In 2024 so far, there have been 62 fatalities, 301 serious injuries, and 1,187 total crashes. 214 of those were motorist accidents, while 66 involved pedestrians, 55 involved motorcyclists, and 23 involved bicyclists. These statistics highlight the pressing need for increased awareness and safety measures on our roads.
Most Dangerous Intersections
The City of Austin’s Vision Zero website features a map that displays the locations and frequency of crashes occurring around the city. The most dangerous roads and intersections in Austin, according to this map, are:
- Interstate Highway 35
- US Highway 290
- The interchange of US Highway 183 and MoPac Expressway
- The intersection of Butler Road and Lamar Boulevard
- The intersection of Cesar Chavez Street and I-35
- Intersection of Highway 183 and Loyola Lane
- East Riverside Drive
- Guadalupe Street
- The Intersection of Riverside Drive and S. Pleasant Valley Road
- The intersection of Parmer Lane and N. Lamar Boulevard
Whether you are injured at one of the locations or anywhere else in the city, you deserve compensation.
Call Our Austin Car Accident Lawyers Today For Help
if you’ve been injured in a car accident in Austin, Texas, having a skilled personal injury lawyer by your side is essential. The team at McMinn Personal Injury Lawyers is dedicated to helping you pursue justice and obtain fair compensation for your injuries and losses. With strong ties to the Austin community, we take pride in providing personalized and compassionate support to every client. Your recovery is our priority, and we are ready to advocate fiercely on your behalf. Contact our team today to schedule a free consultation with an Austin car accident lawyer.
Highly Rated Car Repair Shops in Austin, TX
- Juke Auto – 924 Shady Ln, Austin, TX 78702
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- Luu Auto Repair – 8225 N Lamar Blvd, Austin, TX 78753
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Austin Car Accident Client Review
