Austin Car Accident Attorney

Helping Car Wreck Victims Throughout Travis County

If you were injured or your loved one was killed in a car accident, we can help. Our team can help you clearly understand your options and work to protect your right to financial compensation for:

• Medical bills
• Lost wages
• Pain and suffering
• Other damages

The Austin car accident lawyers at Briggle & Polan, PLLC have extensive experience helping victims of severe car crashes. In fact, we have secured millions of dollars on behalf of our clients, helping them rebuild their lives.

Injured in a car crash? Call Briggle & Polan today at (512) 400-3278 or contact us online for a free consultation with our car accident attorneys in Austin. We're available 24/7.

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On This Page:

• Why You Need a Car Crash Attorney
• Recovering Compensation
• Determining Who Is Liable
• What to Do After an Accident
• Types of Auto Accidents
• Common Causes of Car Accidents
• Common Car Accident Injuries
• Where Do Most Accidents Occur?
• Local Traffic Laws and Regulations
• Fatal Accident Claims
• Statute of Limitations in Texas
• Common Insurance Company Tactics
• Frequently Asked Questions

Why You Need An Austin Car Accident Attorney

If you or a loved one was the victim of a car accident in Austin, TX, contact our legal team at Briggle & Polan, PLLC for help. We can help you pursue the full compensation you may be entitled to for your injuries. This pursuit includes collecting robust evidence, negotiating assertively with insurers, and preparing for potential court trials.

We will handle everything for you so you can focus on your healing. Justice matters. It is important that negligent drivers and others be held accountable for the pain they’ve caused. A car accident lawyer in Austin can help you hold those parties liable. And the money you’ll receive can go a long way toward giving you and your family the best possible life in the face of your losses, including providing resources for future medical care and rehabilitation.

Your initial consultation is free, and our attorneys offer devoted assistance to help you through each step of the process. You won’t have to worry about the costs associated with your case, but keep in mind that you have a limited amount of time to take action. Call our car accident lawyers today for help. Understanding your legal rights and options can significantly affect the outcome of your financial recovery.

We believe that equal justice is everyone’s right, regardless of financial status. You won’t pay us anything unless you win money. That’s right; no win, no fee—ever. You have nothing to lose, but potentially a lot to gain.

Recovering Compensation for Your Injuries

Texas is a liability state, and to recover money for your damages, you need to prove:

• That the other party caused the accident
• That you have suffered real, demonstrable damages

This is best accomplished with the help of an experienced car accident attorney in Austin. When your life has been damaged by someone else’s wrongdoing, you may feel powerless, angry, and frustrated. It is entirely possible that you will never have the same quality of life you had before, but you are entitled to fair compensation. Our team ensures every detail is meticulously considered to support your claim.

You can trust Briggle & Polan to help you pursue justice. We understand that expenses associated with a car accident can be quite hefty, and if the accident was not your fault, these additional expenses can be very frustrating. Make sure you have all the resources on your side to pursue the justice you deserve. Our comprehensive approach is designed to relieve stress and provide clarity.

How Much Is My Austin Car Accident Claim Worth?

After an accident, your first few questions may be "How much will this cost me?" and "How much can I recover?" Although you can never entirely be sure how much your claim will settle for when all is said and done, you can determine what an average settlement will be for your claim by considering factors such as the severity of injuries, insurance policy limits, and past jury verdicts in similar cases.

The value of a car accident claim depends on countless factors, including:

• Severity of the injuries suffered
• Physical damage done to the vehicle
• Cost of medical bills for victims
• Lost wages for victims

A primary method that insurance adjusters use to value a claim is the “multiplier” method. This method is to multiply the claimant’s actual damages by a certain number that is derived from complex software programs. In small fender benders, the number might be 1 or 2, but more serious accidents will be multiplied by 3 or 4, for instance. Another consideration that must be made is the type of medical treatment received. These multipliers reflect the perceived pain and suffering endured by the claimant.

Recovering Compensation if You Are Partially at Fault

Texas law uses modified comparative negligence, which means that your recovery will be reduced by any amount that can be attributed to your own negligence. For example, if the accident was 90 percent the fault of the other driver, and 10 percent your fault, then a recovery of $10,000 would be reduced by $1,000. Understanding this principle is critical as it influences negotiation strategies and settlement decisions.

Remember: All other parties will try to place you at fault for the collision. This can affect your claim and impact the compensation you receive. This is why it's important to work with an Austin car accident lawyer who is adept at countering such defenses and safeguarding your interests.

Compensation for Emotional Distress & Suffering

In addition to the physical injuries you suffered from a car accident, you may also have suffered emotional trauma. Did you know that, in most cases, you can and should receive compensation for this distress? This type of stress and emotional pain is notorious for wreaking havoc on the body. In fact, there are a multitude of illnesses that can arise as the result of a stressful life experience, such as autoimmune diseases. It's essential to document these emotional challenges thoroughly as they can significantly bolster your claim.

The term “pain and suffering” refers to the physical and emotional damage that can result from an injury. When this injury is from involvement in a traumatic experience, such as an auto accident, you may be entitled to compensation. This can be accomplished by working with a car accident attorney in Austin, TX who can help you make a claim with your insurance company and/or file a lawsuit against the other driver. Understanding and articulating your emotional suffering can enhance the value of your claim significantly.

Determining Who Is Liable for Your Accident

Just like other personal injury claims, proving liability is a primary factor in winning a car accident claim. Another driver is not always the responsible party for an accident, although that is typically the case. Third-party defendants may also play a role in lieu of or in addition to the driver of the at-fault vehicle. Identifying these parties requires careful examination of accident evidence and sometimes expert reconstruction.

Other parties that may be liable include:

• The driver’s employer if a vehicle has not been well-maintained
• The manufacturer of defective vehicle parts
• A construction company responsible for roadside hazards

With the help of an experienced Austin car accident lawyer, your claim will be in excellent hands as we effectively handle the nuances of your situation. Our team can thoroughly examine the evidence and perform an investigation that, hopefully, leads to the maximum amount of compensation available. Our diligent approach ensures that even complex claims are meticulously prepared for negotiation or trial.

What To Do After An Auto Accident

The most important thing for you to do when you’ve been injured in a car wreck is to get medical attention immediately. Get checked out, even if you don’t feel that bad. Adrenaline masks pain. You may feel a lot worse tomorrow. Don’t take chances; have a doctor look you over as soon as possible. Medical assessments not only safeguard your health but also create essential documentation for your injury claim.

In the immediate aftermath of a collision, you should also:

• Write down the other driver's name, license plate number, and insurance information.
• Write down the names and contact information of any witnesses.
• Take photos of the accident scene and the vehicles involved, including points of impact.
• Call law enforcement and make a report.
• Do not discuss the accident or your injuries with anyone at the scene.
• Do not discuss the accident with the insurance adjuster or give a recorded statement.
• Do not sign anything unless your attorney is directed to do so later on.

Remember: The insurance adjuster is looking for ways to protect the company’s bottom line—not to help you. Stick to your guns and refer the adjuster to your lawyer so you can protect your claim. Every interaction with the insurer should be conducted with caution.

Write Everything Down in a Journal

Another way to ensure your Austin auto accident lawyer is able to do the best possible job is to keep a diary or log after your accident. Start with the date of the accident and go forward. For each day, write down anything that involves the accident, or anything that you think would be helpful to reference later on.

This includes all medical treatment, all days when you cannot work (with documentation of the lost wages), all trips and mileage related to the accident, and any cost associated with your injuries. An example would be a trip you canceled due to your inability to travel and the non-refundable costs you incurred. Keeping a journal provides a chronological account that strengthens your claim by showcasing the accident's effect on your day-to-day life.

One last item is pain. It is crucial to document your pain each and every day in your notebook. You will not remember how much it hurt, or the number of days you are in pain. This is just as important to document as your trips to the doctor. Such documentation makes tangible the often subjective experience of pain and suffering.

Types of Auto Accidents

You may be the most careful driver in the world and still be seriously injured in an auto accident. You can control the way you drive, but there’s nothing you can do to prevent the dangerous behavior of others. Understanding the variety of accident types can help you better anticipate potential threats while driving.

Some of the most common types of auto accidents in the Austin area include:

• Distracted driving accidents – Increasingly common with the rise of mobile device use among drivers.
• Drunk driving accidents – Alcohol impairs judgment and reaction time, contributing to severe collisions.
• Head-on accidents – These often result in serious injuries due to the significant impact force.
• Hit-and-run accidents – These are particularly distressing as the responsible party leaves the scene.
• Rear-end accidents– Common in heavy traffic areas, often due to inattention or following too closely.
• Ridesharing accidents – With rideshare's rising popularity, ensuring safe practices is paramount.
• Rollover accidents – These occur more frequently in SUVs and vehicles with higher centers of gravity.
• Uninsured motorist accidents – Navigating these situations can be tricky without adequate coverage.
• Accidents caused by auto defects– Mechanical failures or design flaws can be fundamental causes.

Pedestrian vs. Car Accidents

Perhaps you were not driving but were hit by a car as a pedestrian. Drivers owe a duty of care to others they share the road with. Pedestrians are, of course, extremely vulnerable when hit by vehicles weighing several thousand pounds; as a result, pedestrian accidents are often fatal or catastrophic. Visibility and sidewalk infrastructure can play a significant role in the frequency and severity of such incidents.

Running red lights, failing to yield the right-of-way, and running off the road onto a sidewalk or shoulder are negligent acts by a driver that can easily injure or kill a pedestrian. If you’ve been injured, waste no time in contacting an Austin auto accident lawyer at Briggle & Polan. You need an assertive legal advocate to fight for your rights, ensuring full accountability and fair compensation.

Bicycle vs. Auto Accidents

As with pedestrians, bicyclists are highly vulnerable in accidents with cars. Many drivers seem to feel that cyclists have no right to be on the road. Not true. You have every legal right to be there, and impatient or aggressive drivers can be made to pay for their wrongdoing if they knock you down. Better urban planning and awareness campaigns can help prevent these dangerous collisions.

But, it’s never easy. They will attempt to blame you for being in their way. Your lawyer can protect your rights against insurance company tactics in the event of a bicycle accident. A detailed understanding of traffic laws and cycling regulations can be instrumental during claim evaluations.

Scooter vs. Auto Accidents

As electric scooters increase in popularity, states are having difficulty keeping up with safety measures for their riders. There is currently a lack of regulations and unsafe riding habits plaguing Austin, TX. There have been several crashes involving scooters since these transportation devices arrived in the city in 2018, including one critical incident in October 2019. Engaging in community safety initiatives and clear signage could mitigate these incidences.

The process will be similar to any auto accident if you or a loved one is involved in a scooter accident. Make sure that you focus first and foremost on getting medical attention. From there, you should contact the police and get information about all parties involved. Since this is a newer process, obtaining as much evidence and details as possible is essential to assist in the investigation process. Collaboration with local traffic authorities can be beneficial in addressing this new challenge effectively.

Common Causes of Car Accidents in Texas

In almost every case, car accidents do not just occur without some degree of human error. Addressing these errors requires ongoing public education and effective enforcement of traffic laws.

Some of the most common causes of car accidents in Texas include:

• Speeding - Speeding means exceeding the speed limit indicated on a particular section of the road. In addition to this, driving at high speeds when the condition of the road is not friendly due to snow, rain, fog, or low visibility can be dangerous. This is the major cause of car accidents. Traffic calming measures like speed bumps could help mitigate such risks.
• Fatigued Driving - Driving while fatigued can be extremely risky. Fatigue can be caused by many reasons, including sleep deficiency, medication, or overworking. Fatigue is like alcohol, making you have impaired judgment and slowing down your reaction time. Solutions might involve more rest stops and education about proper driving rest cycles.
• Inexperienced Driving - Due to immaturity and less experience behind the wheel, teens have caused the most significant number of accidents in Austin. Teens are more likely to get distracted while driving. Parents should take a step and advise their children on road safety. Encouraging defensive driving courses can impart essential skills to younger drivers.

Regardless of what caused your wreck, you should contact our car accident lawyers in Austin immediately. We will fight to ensure your voice is heard and that you are compensated fairly for your injuries. We provide thorough investigations into each cause to build an irrefutable claim for compensation.

Accidents Caused by Hazardous Road Conditions

Potholes, cracks, ruts, and other pavement defects; lack of a level shoulder; debris and construction materials left on the road; missing or confusing signs or pavement markings; blown-out tire treads (“road alligators”), and poorly designed highways are some dangerous conditions that can cause car wrecks. Regular maintenance and updated road infrastructure are pivotal to minimizing these hazards.

The negligent party may be a civil engineering firm that designed the road, a construction company under contract to build or repair the road, a government department responsible for maintaining the road, or a truck that has dropped cargo or littered the highway with blown-out tire treads. Pinpointing liability in these cases can be complex, necessitating specialized investigatory procedures.

These cases can be tough. Government immunity, compliance with engineering standards, and identification of the actual cause can complicate matters and make establishing liability challenging. Having a legal team adept at negotiating these complexities is invaluable.

Fortunately, at Briggle & Polan, we have the connections and resources to call upon appropriate experts to assist in building a powerful case and to testify on your behalf in depositions or at trial. Our strategic alliances and depth of resources bolster our effectiveness significantly in challenging cases.

Where Do Most Car Accidents Occur in Austin, TX?

With the increase of visitors and residents in Austin, it is no surprise that car accidents are common in the area. In fact, “transportation” was listed as the “worst thing about Austin” in a recent poll by Austin Monitor. Understanding high-risk areas helps in city planning and improving traffic flow.

Below is a list of some of the most dangerous intersections in Austin:

• West Slaughter Lane and Manchaca Road (South Austin)
  A notorious spot needing better signage and dedicated traffic management strategies.
• Lamar Boulevard and Rundberg Lane (North Austin)
  Increased traffic monitoring could help alleviate accident frequency.
• Lamar Boulevard and Parmer Lane (North Austin)
  Significant investments in road safety measures have been proposed here.
• U.S. 183 Service Road and Cameron Road (Northeast Austin)
  Construction improvements are underway but require careful oversight.
• I-35 Southbound Service Road and Martin Luther King Jr. Boulevard (near Downtown)
  Long-term solutions are essential to manage the high vehicle volume.

Although the city continues to make strides to address these hazardous areas and problematic intersections, it is important to remain aware. Even if you are on high alert, other drivers may not be. That makes knowing about skillful car accident lawyers in Austin a smart move. If you were injured in one of these dangerous intersections, we can help. Collaborations with city officials on infrastructural projects offer promising progress in safety enhancements.

Local Traffic Laws & Regulations

Understanding local traffic laws can be crucial when involved in an accident in Austin. Texas follows specific rules regarding liability and negligence, particularly the modified comparative negligence rule, which can affect how compensation is distributed. In Austin, distracted driving laws are enforced rigorously, given the high number of accidents attributed to mobile device use. Additionally, when it comes to right-of-way and lane usage, being familiar with regional laws can significantly influence your claim's outcome.

Another local regulation pertains to the use of seatbelts and child safety restraints. Texas law mandates the use of seatbelts for all passengers, and non-compliance can affect claims in auto accident cases. Motorcycle and bicycle regulations also require riders to wear helmets up to a certain age, impacting legal arguments surrounding liability and injury claims. Knowledge of these local provisions allows you to be better prepared both in avoiding incidents and in managing the aftermath should an accident occur.

What Are Common Car Accident Injuries?

At Briggle & Polan, we help clients with all types of debilitating injuries, such as:

• TBI (traumatic brain injury) – These often require long-term care and can significantly impact quality of life.
• Spinal cord injuries – These can result in complete or partial paralysis, requiring lifelong adjustments.
• Severe burns– Treatment for burns is complex and lengthy, involving surgery and rehabilitation.
• Nerve damage – Impacts range from chronic pain to complete loss of function in certain areas.
• Crush injuries – These often occur in high-impact collisions and can lead to multiple surgeries.
• Damage to vital organs and internal bleeding – Immediate and intensive medical attention is necessary.
• Neck and back injuries – Such injuries, like whiplash, can result in chronic pain and limited mobility.
• Herniated discs – These can require surgical intervention if conservative treatments fail.
• Damaged muscles, tendons, and ligaments – Soft tissue injuries can heal with therapy but often take time.
• Bone fractures – Casts or surgeries are usual treatments, followed by rehabilitation.
• Facial injuries and disfigurement – Reconstructive surgeries can be involved and emotionally challenging.
• Blindness and deafness – Such injuries drastically alter lifestyle and independence.
• Dismemberment – Loss of limbs requires prosthetics and significant lifestyle adjustment.
• Lacerations, abrasions, and scarring – Cosmetic treatments can help, but scars may be permanent.
• Chronic regional pain syndrome – This condition can develop after an injury, causing severe discomfort.
• Depression, anxiety, and PTSD – Mental health is central to recovery and requires appropriate care.

Wrongful Death Claims for Fatal Car Accidents

More than 30,000 families are left without their loved ones across the country each year due to motor vehicle accidents. Speeding and drunk driving are two common causes of these fatal car accidents. When faced with such loss, seeking legal assistance can help in addressing financial hardships and holding offending parties accountable.

If you have lost a loved one in a car accident, your mind is likely not on legal matters as you deal with the sorrow you are facing; let Briggle & Polan handle this for you. Our Austin fatal car accident attorneys can provide you with the legal assistance you deserve as you file a wrongful death claim. Through a compassionate and supportive approach, we strive to ease the burdens of this tough journey.

Statute of Limitations for Car Accidents in Texas

A statute of limitations rule applies to almost any type of lawsuit or legal issue. Basically, a statute of limitation is a rule that means you must seek legal redress within a certain timeframe, or you lose your right to file; it doesn’t matter how clear-cut your claim is or how much proof you have to back it up. Time limits ensure claims are handled while evidence is fresh and witnesses are more reliable.

The same applies to auto accidents in the state of Texas. Under the Texas Civil Practice and Remedies Code, you have only two years to file a personal injury claim. Once this time period has passed, your claim can no longer be heard. This is the main reason why car accidents require immediate attention. Procrastination not only threatens the viability of your claim but minimizes the options available for redress.

The clock begins ticking immediately after the accident happens. If you are in the state of Texas and need an auto accident attorney, you should find one as soon as possible to protect your rights. Engaging legal counsel promptly enables comprehensive investigation and an optimized defense strategy.

Insurance Company Tactics After Austin Car Accidents

Insurance companies often employ various tactics to minimize the compensation they pay to accident victims. Understanding these tactics can empower you as a claimant. One common approach is an initial lowball settlement offer, tempting you to settle quickly. Insurers may also question the extent of your injuries or the necessity of medical treatments, potentially requiring extensive documentation to verify claims. Additionally, adjusters may try to delay the claims process, hoping that financial pressure will force you into accepting a lesser settlement. Being informed about these tactics is vital; with the guidance of a skilled auto accident attorney in Austin, you can protect your rights and negotiate effectively against such strategies from insurers.

To discuss your claim with an Austin auto accident lawyer, call (512) 400-3278 or contact us online for a free consultation. We take calls 24/7 to ensure you have the support needed whenever you decide to take action.