How to File a Car Accident Claim in Dallas

Were you involved in a car accident in Dallas, Texas? It’s important to file an auto insurance claim immediately to get coverage for your vehicle repairs, medical costs and related expenses. This process involves several steps, such as gathering the relevant evidence, documenting the damage and speaking with your insurance provider.

Still, there are situations where you’ll need to negotiate or seek assistance from an auto accident attorney. This guide explores the car accident claim process and in which instances you might need professional representation.

How Does Car Insurance Work in Dallas?

Texas is an at-fault state, meaning the law expects any driver who causes an accident to cover the legal damages of those injured. All Texas drivers must have a minimum amount of liability insurance to cover the other party’s car accident expenses if they’re at fault in an accident.

Liability insurance covers the cost of repairing the other party’s vehicle, as well as costs from bodily injury, lost wages, or legal expenses for the other party and their passengers. Texas law requires drivers to have at least $30,000 in coverage for injuries per person, up to $60,000 per accident, and $25,000 insurance for property damage.

Other forms of auto insurance, such as personal injury protection (PIP) insurance and collision insurance, cover damages to your body and vehicle.

Types of Car Accident Damages You Can Recover

Submitting a car accident claim may allow you to collect the following types of auto accident damages:

Property damage: This includes compensation for vehicle repairs or the car’s fair market value if it’s unrepairable.
Medical expenses: The insurance provider will provide a specified amount to cover hospital costs, prescriptions, surgeries and ongoing medical treatment.
Pain and suffering: This includes nonmonetary compensation for a person’s physical and mental pain following the accident.
Lost wages: If you were unable to work due to your injuries from the accident, the insurance plan may provide compensation for income lost during this period.
Punitive damages: Punitive damages aim to penalize the at-fault driver if they are grossly negligent.

What Is the Car Accident Claim Process in Dallas?

After you’re safe and receive medical attention, you need to file an auto accident claim to help you get the financial assistance you need. Here’s how to file a car accident claim in Dallas in four steps.

1. File Your Claim

If you believe the other party is at fault, you may file a claim with their insurance company. This is known as a “third-party claim.” If you file a third-party claim, you should also notify your own insurance company that you’re doing so. If you wish to use your own coverage, such as collision or PIP, you may file a first-party claim with your own insurance company. It’s advisable to try to recover from an at-fault third party first before using your own insurance.

After notifying the insurance company of your accident, they’ll provide a claim form. Include accurate details about the accident, injuries and property damage. You should also submit supporting documents like pictures of the damage, medical documents and a police report.

2. Discuss Details With the Insurance Adjuster

An insurance adjuster will review your statement and investigate the claim. Texas law requires that these professionals respond to your claim within 15 days. They then have another 15 days to notify you of whether they accept the claim. The adjuster will assess the details and determine a fair compensation amount. Make sure to check communications from them as they may request additional documentation or information.

3. Negotiate a Settlement Offer

The insurance provider will offer a settlement amount based on the adjuster’s assessment, which you may accept or negotiate for a higher amount. To negotiate, you’ll have to provide reasoning and additional documentation and evidence to support your claim. If you receive a suitable settlement offer, you may accept it, and the insurance company will process the payment.

4. Get Legal Assistance for a Personal Injury Lawsuit

What if you encounter challenges during the claims process or don’t receive the compensation you believe is fair? In this case, consider getting assistance from a Dallas car accident claim lawyer or representative.

This professional will evaluate your case and request supporting documents like your medical records to assess the extent of the damage. They also review the accident report and eyewitness testimonies. After they’ve decided to take on your case, they’ll help you through the litigation process by filing the lawsuit and assisting with negotiation and mediation.

How Long Do You Have to File a Claim?

In some cases, the car accident claim timeline in Dallas for filing with the insurance provider is 30 days after the accident occurred. The timeline may vary depending on the provider. It’s crucial to file a claim as soon as possible to avoid a potential denial. It helps to ensure you file all the relevant documents on the first go to prevent further delays.

The most common documents to provide include:

A copy of the police report
Medical records and bills
Images of the damage and accident scene
Proof of income for lost wages
Vehicle repair estimates

You may file a personal injury claim within two years of the accident.

Signs You Should Seek Legal Representation

A Dallas auto accident claim lawyer is a knowledgeable professional who may handle the claim process while you focus on healing. Here are some common signs you might need their help:

Unfamiliarity with the claims process: If the procedure is challenging to understand or navigate, it helps to seek professional assistance. An experienced and knowledgeable attorney will guide you each step of the way and inform you of the different deadlines and documentation to collect.
Not enough coverage from insurance: If the coverage from the insurance company doesn’t cover all your accident-related expenses, a lawyer may help you negotiate a settlement or file a lawsuit to help you get the compensation you deserve.
Disputes with various parties: If your situation garners disputes, an auto accident lawyer has the strategies and skills to negotiate and mitigate conflict.
Potential for appeal: Are you seeing signs that you’ll need to appeal? Having issues connecting evidence or finding the right evidence might mean you should work with an attorney to help you prove your case.

Why Trust Thomas J. Henry Law?

Does one of the above signs apply to you? If so, Thomas J. Henry Law can help you assess your case and guide you through the claims process. Some of the key benefits of working with our law firm include:

Full-service injury firm: Our auto accident claim attorneys have experience in various vehicle accident cases and the knowledge and resources necessary to assist you. As a full-service injury firm, we evaluate your unique situation and the provided documents to develop helpful solutions that align with your needs.
No win, no fee policy: We understand the concern of paying and not getting results. That’s why, with us, you won’t pay unless we win, and we offer a free case review for your peace of mind.
Ability to accommodate your situation: Have you been injured and unable to visit an attorney’s office? Fortunately, we can come to you whether you’re at home or in the hospital. We also look for additional ways to assist you, such as helping you receive the necessary medical treatment and get a rental car if your vehicle is damaged. We’re also available 24/7 to assist you whenever needed.

File Your Auto Accident Lawsuit in Dallas with Thomas J. Henry Law

If you’re looking for a Dallas car accident claim lawyer or representative, our auto accident attorney may be able to assist you. We’ll thoroughly investigate your case and take the action needed to secure your claim’s evidence and fight for your rights. Whether your company vehicle was damaged or you were injured in your personal vehicle, contact our experienced attorneys to learn more about your options and how we can assist you.