Top Questions Answered by Your Car Accident Attorney in Pasadena TX

Being involved in a car accident is a stressful and often overwhelming experience, especially when you’re left to deal with the aftermath, such as medical bills, vehicle repairs, and insurance claims. In the chaotic moments following a collision, it can be difficult to know what steps to take to protect your rights and ensure you receive the compensation you deserve. If you’re in Pasadena, TX, having the right car accident attorney on your side can make a significant difference in how quickly and effectively you recover, both financially and physically. At Caruthers Law Firm, we specialize in helping accident victims navigate the complex legal process, from dealing with insurance companies to securing fair compensation for your injuries and damages. Below, we answer some of the most frequently asked questions people have after a car accident and explain how we can assist you during this challenging time.

1. What Should I Do Immediately After a Car Accident?

The moments after a car accident are critical. Following the correct steps can protect both your health and your potential legal claim. Here’s what to do:

• Ensure Everyone’s Safety: First and foremost, check on all passengers and drivers involved. If there are any injuries, call 911 for immediate assistance.
• Move Your Vehicle to Safety: If it’s safe to do so, move your vehicle to the side of the road to prevent further accidents. Turn on your hazard lights.
• Call the Police: Even if the accident seems minor, it’s important to have a police officer document the incident. A police report will be a key document if you file an insurance claim or pursue legal action.
• Exchange Information: Collect the names, contact numbers, driver’s license numbers, and insurance information of all involved parties.
• Document the Scene: Take photos of the damage to all vehicles, road conditions, and any visible injuries. This evidence can be crucial when building your case later.
• Avoid Admitting Fault: While being polite is important, avoid saying anything that could be construed as admitting fault. Simple phrases like “I’m sorry” can be used against you later on.

By following these steps, you’ll have the necessary documentation and a stronger foundation to support your case should you need to file a claim or seek legal action.

2. When Should I Contact a Car Accident Attorney?

Deciding when to contact a car accident attorney can be tricky, but there are several instances where hiring an attorney early in the process is beneficial:

• If You Suffer Injuries: If your accident caused injuries that require medical attention, or you’re missing work due to recovery, it’s time to contact an attorney. Medical expenses can pile up quickly, and insurance companies may not offer fair compensation without legal pressure.
• When Fault Is Disputed: If the other driver or their insurance company is disputing liability, an attorney can gather evidence to build a strong case on your behalf.
• Dealing With Insurance Adjusters: Insurance companies often attempt to minimize payouts. A car accident attorney knows how to negotiate with adjusters and ensure you receive the full compensation you deserve.
• In Complex Accidents: If multiple parties are involved, such as in a multi-vehicle accident, legal complexities can arise. Having an attorney ensures that your interests are protected and that you’re not under-compensated due to shared liability or other parties’ claims.

Contacting a car accident attorney early ensures that your rights are protected, and it prevents you from making any missteps that could harm your case. At Caruthers Law Firm, we work on a contingency basis, meaning you don’t pay unless we win your case.

3. What Compensation Am I Entitled To After a Car Accident?

After a car accident, many clients are uncertain about what types of compensation they may be entitled to. In Pasadena, TX, if the other driver is at fault, you could receive compensation for various types of damages:

1. Medical Bills:

You are entitled to compensation for all medical expenses related to the accident. This includes emergency care, ongoing treatments like physical therapy, surgeries, and even future medical costs if your injuries require long-term care.

2. Lost Wages:

If your injuries prevent you from working, you may recover lost wages. This includes any wages lost during recovery, as well as compensation for a reduced earning capacity if your injuries permanently affect your ability to work.

3. Property Damage:

You should be compensated for the damage to your vehicle and any personal items that were damaged in the crash, such as electronics. Keep all receipts for repairs and replacements to support your claim.

4. Pain and Suffering:

Non-economic damages, like pain and suffering, can also be part of your compensation. This is a more subjective claim that takes into account the physical pain and emotional distress caused by the accident.

5. Loss of Consortium:

If the accident has affected your relationship with your spouse or family members, you may be entitled to compensation for the loss of companionship or emotional support.

Your car accident attorney will help you calculate your damages, ensuring that no potential claims are overlooked, and negotiate a settlement with the insurance company on your behalf.

4. How Long Do I Have to File a Claim in Texas?

In Texas, the statute of limitations for filing a personal injury lawsuit is two years from the date of the accident. This means you have two years to file a claim for compensation related to injuries or property damage resulting from the accident.

Failing to file within this time frame will likely result in your claim being dismissed, and you will lose the right to pursue compensation. While two years may seem like plenty of time, starting the process early is important. Building a solid case requires gathering evidence, obtaining medical records, and negotiating with insurance companies—all of which can take time.

Additionally, if your case involves a government vehicle or entity (such as a city-owned vehicle), different deadlines may apply. In some cases, you may need to file a notice of your claim within six months of the accident.

Consulting a car accident attorney soon after the incident helps ensure you meet all deadlines and gives your attorney ample time to build a strong case.

5. What If the Other Driver Is Uninsured or Underinsured?

Unfortunately, not all drivers on the road have insurance. If you’re involved in an accident with an uninsured or underinsured driver, your options for compensation may be more limited, but there are still ways to recover damages:

1. Uninsured Motorist (UM) Coverage:

If the other driver doesn’t have insurance, your own uninsured motorist coverage can step in to cover medical bills, lost wages, and property damage. This type of coverage is optional but highly recommended in Texas.

2. Underinsured Motorist (UIM) Coverage:

If the other driver has insurance but their policy limits aren’t sufficient to cover all of your expenses, underinsured motorist coverage can make up the difference. UIM coverage is also optional but offers valuable protection in accidents with low-coverage drivers.

3. Filing a Lawsuit:

If the at-fault driver is uninsured and you don’t have UM/UIM coverage, your next option is to file a personal injury lawsuit. However, collecting from an uninsured driver can be difficult, as they may not have sufficient assets to pay a judgment.

It’s essential to review your insurance policy and consider adding UM/UIM coverage for additional protection. Your attorney can also explore all avenues to maximize your recovery.

Protect Your Rights with Caruthers Law Firm, Your Car Accident Attorney in Pasadena, TX

A car accident can have long-lasting effects on your health, finances, and overall well-being. At Caruthers Law Firm, we understand the emotional and financial strain that comes with these situations, which is why we are committed to fighting for the compensation you deserve. Whether you’re facing mounting medical bills, lost wages due to time off work, or dealing with difficult insurance companies, we are here to help guide you through every step of the legal process.

Our experienced team of car accident attorneys in Pasadena, TX will handle all aspects of your case, from gathering evidence and negotiating with insurance adjusters to ensuring that your rights are fully protected. We offer personalized legal representation tailored to your unique needs, and with our contingency fee structure, you won’t have to worry about any upfront costs—we only get paid if we win your case. This allows you to focus on your recovery while we take care of the legal complexities.

Don’t let the aftermath of a car accident add to your stress. Contact Caruthers Law Firm today for a free consultation. We will provide the guidance, expertise, and support you need to move forward with confidence. Our goal is to take the burden off your shoulders and secure the justice and compensation you deserve, helping you get back on track after your accident.

Caruthers Law Firm
Address: 4141 Southwest Fwy,
Suite 400
Houston, TX 77027
(713) 526-9557
View our Google Listing

In the aftermath of an accident that leaves you or a loved one injured, it is crucial to know where to turn for support and justice. The Caruthers Law Firm stands as a beacon of unwavering commitment to the cause of pursuing justice for injury victims. With a track record that speaks volumes about our dedication to excellence and passion for our clients, we have garnered recognition throughout the Houston area as a trusted name in the legal community. When you or a family member suffers an injury due to the negligence of another, the need for an attorney who is not just competent but also recognized for their excellence becomes paramount. The Houston personal injury attorney at The Caruthers Law Firm fits that bill precisely. We have earned accolades and trust from our clients because we don not just handle cases; we champion causes. Our cases frequently involve traumatic, life-altering events, such as the loss of a loved one, and our relentless pursuit of justice ensures our clients receive the compensation necessary to secure their financial future. Our dedicated efforts have successfully secured over $50 million in settlements for our clients, and our commitment to excellence has brought us national recognition, particularly in fields like birth injury law. Whether your life has been upended by a tragic accident or the negligence of another party, you can confide in Caruthers Law Firm to handle your case with the utmost skill, dedication, and compassion in your time of need. Every case we undertake is treated with the gravity and importance it deserves, and we strive to provide the best possible representation to our clients. At Caruthers Law Firm, our attorneys boast an impressive array of knowledge and expertise in various practice areas, including personal injury, criminal defense, wrongful death, and more. We fully acknowledge that each case is unique, and we value the individual concerns and needs of our clients. This understanding leads us to craft tailored legal strategies that address each case is distinctive challenges. When you choose Caruthers Law Firm as your legal representation, you can expect a high degree of professionalism, unwavering integrity, and an unparalleled commitment from the beginning of your case to its conclusion. We are not just lawyers; we are advocates for your rights, dedicated to securing the justice you deserve.

For over three decades, Beverly R. Caruthers has been on an unwavering mission to provide her clients with top-notch, tenacious, and compassionate legal services and representation. Attorney Beverly R. Caruthers has not only amassed extensive experience but has also consistently delivered high-quality legal assistance to those who have sought her counsel. Her journey to legal expertise began with academic distinction, having graduated Cum Laude with a Bachelor of Arts from Tougaloo College, followed by the acquisition of her Juris Doctor from Thurgood Marshall School of Law at Texas Southern University. With a primary focus on Personal Injury, Criminal Law, and Business Law, Attorney Beverly R. Caruthers has honed her legal acumen in these pivotal areas. Complementing her knowledge and skills, The Law Office of Beverly R. Caruthers is fortified by a collaborative team of seasoned and highly qualified attorneys. Together, they work tirelessly to achieve the best possible outcomes for each and every client they serve. In the Caruthers family, the pursuit of legal excellence seems to be a cherished tradition. Briona Caruthers, following in the footsteps of her older brother and colleague, hails from Missouri City, Texas, where she graduated from Elkins High School in 2015. Venturing outside her hometown, she spent four years at Hofstra University in New York, where she diligently earned her Bachelor Degree in Legal Studies in Business in 2019. After her academic journey in New York, she returned to her roots in Houston, Texas. There, she attended the same illustrious institution where her mother, Beverly R. Caruthers, and her brothers, Eddie and Parker Caruthers, had studied—the Thurgood Marshall School of Law at Texas Southern University. In 2022, Briona graduated Cum Laude from TSU, thereby continuing the family legacy. Beyond her legal pursuits, Briona finds solace in retail therapy and enjoys exploring the world through her travels when she is not in the office, fervently advocating for her clients rights. Parker Caruthers, another member of the Caruthers family, was born and raised in Missouri City, Texas, where he completed his high school education at Clements High School in 2012. His educational journey took him to Texas Southern University in Houston, Texas, where he earned a Bachelor’s Degree in Marketing in 2017. Parker commitment to legal studies led him to the Thurgood Marshall School of Law at TSU, from where he graduated in 2021. During his time in law school, Parker legal prowess shone through as he secured victory in the Helen Dawn Williams Mock Trial competition, all while gaining valuable experience through internships at the Harris County District Attorney’s Office. Opting to take a different path by not pursuing prosecution, Parker joined Caruthers Law Firm in 2021. Beyond the legal realm, Parker passions extend to sports fandom and his role as a proud dog owner. At the Caruthers Law Firm, we take a refreshingly transparent and candid approach when assessing our potential clients circumstances. We believe in clear, honest, and direct communication, leaving aside the legal jargon to speak in terms that our clients can readily understand. Each client is treated as a unique individual, receiving personalized and attentive care throughout their legal journey with us.

We are immensely grateful to each and every individual who wholeheartedly contributed to the success of "The Christmas Toy Drive and Giveaway" and "The Back to School Giveaway" right here in the vibrant city of Houston. Your support has made a profound difference in the lives of countless local children, and it is a testament to the incredible community spirit that defines our city. At The Caruthers Law Firm, we take great pride in being active sponsors of these important initiatives, which focus on providing crucial resources to Houstons youth. Some of the recipients come from families struggling with limited income, making it challenging for them to provide the necessary school supplies for their children. For others, the prospect of a joyous Christmas was a distant dream due to a lack of toys. In these circumstances, we aimed to make a meaningful and positive impact on these children and their families. It is through the unwavering support and dedication of our local community that we were able to realize this vision. We encourage you to consider joining us in this noble cause and be a part of the change in the lives of Houston families. Your involvement can take various forms, whether through donating items, contributing funds, or taking the initiative to organize a collection drive within your organization, church, club, or local community. Your support will undoubtedly go a long way in touching the lives of those in need, ensuring that every child in our city can look forward to a brighter future. By working together, we not only provide essential items but also instill a sense of hope, compassion, and generosity within our beloved Houston community. Together, we can create a stronger, more caring, and inclusive community, one that continues to uplift and empower those who need it most. Thank you for being a part of this vital mission.