Dallas Insurance Claims Attorney | Personal Injury Lawyer Richardson

Category: Car Accident Claim

  • 5 Items You Need To File a Texas Car Accident Claim

    After a car accident, the physical and emotional fallout can be overwhelming. Between medical appointments, vehicle repairs and insurance calls, it’s easy to lose track of what you’ll need in order to file a car accident claim in Texas. But organization and proper documentation are crucial to a successful outcome.

    Understanding the logistics and paperwork required in a car accident claim can make the process smoother and protect your right to compensation.

    1. The Crash Report

    One of the most important documents in any car accident claim is the official crash report, known as the CR-3 form. This form is completed by the law enforcement officer who responds to the crash scene. It lists the parties involved, witness information and road conditions and offers an initial assessment of the situation.

    Insurance companies and attorneys rely heavily on crash reports when evaluating claims, so obtaining a copy as soon as it becomes available is essential.

    2. Receipts and Expenses

    Car accidents often come with unexpected out‑of‑pocket expenses. Tow truck fees, auto repairs, rental cars, medications, medical equipment and even mileage to and from medical appointments—it all adds up quickly.

    Save every receipt, no matter how small it seems. These records help demonstrate the financial impact of the accident, and that money may be recoverable as part of your claim.

    It’s also helpful to keep repair estimates, invoices and photographs of vehicle damage. Even if your car is declared a total loss, proper documentation can support your property damage claim.

    3. Medical Bills and Records

    Medical documentation is at the heart of a personal injury claim. Seek medical care promptly after a crash, even if symptoms seem minor at first. Some injuries, such as whiplash or concussions, may take days or weeks to fully set in.

    Keep copies of all health-related items, including:

    • Hospital and emergency room bills
    • Doctor and specialist visit summaries
    • Physical therapy records
    • Diagnostic imaging results
    • Prescriptions

    These records help establish the connection between the accident, your injuries and the costs of treatment.

    4. Self‑Care Documentation

    Self-care may not automatically generate paperwork, but it still matters.

    Keeping a simple journal of your recovery can be powerful evidence. Note your pain levels, mobility limitations, missed workdays, sleep issues and other disturbances to your life. This type of documentation helps illustrate non‑economic damages and issues that can’t be represented by bills alone.

    5. Communication and Deadlines

    Insurance claims involve frequent communication. Keep a log of phone calls, emails and letters from insurance adjusters, medical providers and repair shops. Write down dates, names and summaries of conversations. Strict deadlines apply to injury claims filed in Texas, so staying organized ensures that nothing is missed.

    One of the many benefits of having a personal injury attorney representing you is that they handle communication. Your attorney will make sure that important items are documented and addressed correctly.

    Organization Makes a Difference

    Getting proper compensation after a car accident requires more than filling out forms and handing over your receipts. You need to present a clear, well‑supported story of what you’ve been through.

    With the help of a personal injury attorney, your crash reports, receipts, medical bills and self‑care records can be woven into a compelling narrative. This can clearly convey how the car accident affected your life.

    The Fell Law Firm Can Help

    Texas car accident cases can be complex. Getting the results you deserve takes experience, dedication and effort. At The Fell Law Firm, our skilled personal injury attorneys can help you recover the money you deserve. Call us today at 972-450-1418 or send us a message to schedule a consultation.

  • 5 Mistakes To Avoid After Being Injured in a Texas Car Accident

    Being injured in a car accident can turn your life upside down in a matter of seconds. Medical appointments, vehicle repairs, lost income and insurance calls can quickly become overwhelming.

    In Texas, the actions you take—or fail to take—after a car crash can significantly affect your ability to recover compensation. Understanding the five most common mistakes to avoid can help protect your health and your legal rights.

    Mistake #1: Not Seeking Medical Attention Right Away After the Crash

    Delaying medical care after an accident can be costly. Most importantly, serious injuries can be covered up by the extreme adrenaline rush after a crash. It’s safer to get checked out by a medical professional, even if you think you’re okay.

    Second, some injuries—including concussions, soft tissue damage or internal injuries—may not present symptoms right away. Waiting to see a doctor puts your health at risk, but it also gives insurance companies an excuse to argue that injuries diagnosed later were not caused by the car accident.

    Mistake #2: Taking the Blame or Making Statements Without All the Facts

    Do you know how fast all the other cars on the road were going? Do you know if the trucking company had done proper maintenance on the semi that caused your crash? Do you know if the other drivers were texting, fiddling with their radios or dozing off?

    Texas follows a modified comparative fault rule, meaning your compensation can be reduced or eliminated if you are found responsible for the accident. Apologizing, speculating about what happened or admitting fault at the scene or to an insurance adjuster can be used against you later.

    It’s best to stick to the facts you do know and avoid giving recorded statements without legal guidance.

    Mistake #3: Not Documenting the Accident and Its Aftermath

    Failing to gather and maintain evidence can weaken your claim. If possible, take photos of the accident scene, vehicle damage, road conditions and visible injuries. Collect contact information from witnesses and request a copy of the police report. Note all medical appointments and the information exchanged in them.

    Strong documentation can make a critical difference when establishing liability and damages.

    Mistake #4: Placing Full Trust in the Insurance Company

    Insurance adjusters may appear helpful, but their goal is to minimize payouts. Accepting a quick settlement or signing documents without understanding their implications can stop you from recovering full compensation for future medical care, lost wages and pain and suffering.

    Once you settle, you can’t go back and ask for more if your condition worsens. A fair settlement takes all past and future costs into consideration.

    Mistake #5: Not Hiring a Texas Car Accident Lawyer

    Personal injury attorneys at The Fell Law Firm understand Texas traffic laws, insurance practices and liability rules and can protect you from costly mistakes. Your lawyer can handle communications with insurers, gather evidence, calculate the true value of your claim and negotiate for fair compensation. If necessary, they can also take your case to court.

    Having legal representation allows you to focus on healing while ensuring your rights are fully protected. At The Fell Law Firm, our team has the experience to get you the results you deserve after a serious car accident. Call us today at 972-450-1418 or contact us online to discuss your case.

  • Are You Entitled to Rental Car Costs, Repairs or Vehicle Replacement?

    A car accident can disrupt nearly every aspect of daily life, especially when your vehicle is damaged or rendered unusable. Beyond physical injuries and emotional stress, many accident victims face immediate financial concerns related to transportation and vehicle damage.

    A common question is whether insurance will reimburse expenses such as rental cars, repair costs or even full vehicle replacement. While the answer depends on several factors, understanding the general principles can help you make informed decisions after being involved in a car accident.

    Reimbursement for Rental Car Expenses

    If your vehicle is inoperable after a crash, you may be entitled to reimbursement for rental car costs while repairs are underway or until your claim is resolved. In many cases, the at-fault driver’s insurance is responsible for covering reasonable rental expenses. The idea is to place you in a similar position to where you were before the accident.

    However, insurance companies typically impose limits. They may:

    • Cap the daily rental rate
    • Restrict the type of vehicle you can rent
    • Limit the length of time they will pay for a rental

    Plus, if fault is disputed or if the insurer delays accepting liability, you may initially have to pay out of pocket and seek reimbursement later.

    Reviewing your own auto policy is also important, as some policies include rental reimbursement coverage regardless of fault.

    Coverage for Vehicle Repair Costs

    Repair costs are one of the most common components of a property damage claim. If another driver caused the accident, their insurance is generally responsible for paying to repair your vehicle to its pre-accident condition. This includes parts, labor and any related expenses such as towing or storage.

    If you use your own collision coverage, your insurer will typically pay for repairs minus your deductible, then pursue reimbursement from the at-fault driver’s insurer. This is a process called “subrogation.” It is important to document all damage, obtain repair estimates and keep copies of invoices to support your claim.

    When Is Vehicle Replacement an Option?

    In some accidents, a vehicle is declared a total loss due to cost or safety issues. When this happens, insurance does not pay for repairs. Instead, it offers compensation based on the vehicle’s actual cash value immediately before the crash.

    Actual cash value reflects factors such as the car’s age, mileage, condition and market value, not what it would cost to buy a brand-new replacement. If you still owe money on the vehicle, the settlement may not fully cover the remaining loan balance unless you have gap insurance.

    Understanding how the insurer calculated the value is critical, as these determinations can sometimes be challenged.

    Key Factors That Affect Reimbursement

    Several variables influence whether and how much you are reimbursed, including:

    Timing also matters, as delays in reporting the accident or seeking repairs can complicate the process.

    An experienced Texas car accident attorney can help you make sure every box is checked when seeking full compensation. While rental car expenses may be a small portion of what you’re owed, it is still an expense you shouldn’t have to pay.

    At The Fell Law Firm, our Texas personal injury attorneys work hard to secure every dollar you deserve after a car accident. Call us today at 972-450-1418 or contact us online to schedule a consultation.

  • Why You Should Avoid Posting on Social Media After a Car Accident

    In the aftermath of a car accident, it’s natural to want to reach out for support. Many people instinctively turn to social media to share updates or photos or even express frustration. However, what may feel like a harmless post can significantly damage your ability to obtain fair compensation for your injuries and losses.

    If you’re considering filing a claim after a crash, the best practice is simple: Stay silent online.

    Your Posts Can Be Used Against You

    Insurance companies and defense attorneys actively monitor claimants’ social media profiles. Even if your accounts are private, your posts can be obtained and used as evidence. A seemingly innocent photo or comment can be taken out of context and used to question your credibility, the severity of your injuries or the legitimacy of your claim.

    For example, imagine you suffered back injuries but later posted a picture smiling at a family event. To you, it’s just a moment of positivity. To an insurance adjuster, it becomes evidence that you aren’t in as much pain as you claim. Similarly, posting details or opinions about the accident itself can give the opposing party material to dispute liability.

    Privacy Settings Won’t Protect You

    Many people assume that tightening their privacy settings will shield their posts. Unfortunately, this is not the case:

    • Courts may allow opposing counsel to access your online content during litigation.
    • Friends can share or screenshot your posts.
    • Even deleted content may be recoverable.

    Once something hits the internet, you lose control over how it spreads, and it can end up being a mistake that hurts your claim.

    Inconsistent Statements Can Harm Your Case

    After an accident, your attorney will help you craft clear, consistent statements that accurately reflect what happened and how the crash has affected or is affecting you.

    Posting online can lead to inconsistencies that the other side will seize upon. Even small differences between what you tell your doctor, your lawyer and your Facebook friends can weaken your case.

    Photos and Check‑Ins Create Misleading Impressions

    Images can be even more damaging than words. A photo of you standing, lifting a child, attending a social gathering or even just smiling can be misinterpreted. Insurance companies use these snapshots to argue that you’re exaggerating your injuries or that your daily life appears unaffected.

    Location check‑ins can also be problematic. If you claim you’re unable to work or perform certain activities, but your social media suggests otherwise, your compensation could be reduced or denied entirely.

    The Best Strategy: Go Silent Online

    While your case is ongoing, avoid posting anything about the accident—or anything else, for that matter. Even unrelated posts can be misconstrued. Ask friends and family not to tag you in photos or mention you online. If you must use social media, keep it minimal, neutral and free of personal details.

    Contact an Experienced Texas Injury Lawyer

    At The Fell Law Firm, we know how to protect your rights after an accident. Our attorneys can guide you through the process and help you avoid damaging mistakes. Call us today at 972-450-1418 or send us a message to schedule a consultation.

  • Why You Shouldn’t Accept Early Settlement Offers After a Car Accident

    Car accidents are incredibly stressful. A serious car crash causes a host of changes to your life, from coordinating medical care to dealing with the trauma and emotions of the crash.

    Unfortunately, insurance companies are not your ally during this difficult time. Their aim is to limit their costs after a car accident. One of the tools they use to do this is the fast settlement offer.

    An Early Offer Is Probably Not a Good Offer

    It’s important to understand how insurance companies look at your accident. Insurance is profitable when people pay their premiums and don’t make claims. It would not be a profitable business if everyone got into serious accidents and filed for benefits. They bet on you not getting into a wreck, and now they’ve lost that bet.

    At this point, you’re not a valued customer to your insurance company. You’re a problem they need to solve. Insurance companies have a lot of experience in minimizing their exposure to clients who are no longer a profit engine. They know the tricks to avoid paying you what you are owed.

    Insurance companies don’t start with the offer they believe is fair. They start with the lowest offer they think you might accept, and it can be a tiny fraction of what they owe you. If they think you might agree, it’s worth it to them to make a low offer. That’s why early offers are rarely fair.

    Misunderstanding the Cost of Your Accident

    One major issue is that most people don’t understand what it will take to truly compensate them after an accident. They see an offer that covers the medical bills they’ve received, the wages they’ve lost and the vehicle that got totaled, and they think it’s fair. But the costs can go far beyond that.

    While your medical bills might already be intimidating, there might be much more to come. Future medical expenses must be considered before accepting a settlement offer. Similarly, lost wages may or may not be a problem now, but loss of earning potential could be a problem for the rest of your life.

    Another potentially hidden cost is the non-economic damages accidents can cause. Pain and suffering, emotional distress, a drop in your quality of life and more may need to be considered for you to get a proper settlement.

    The Value of Personal Injury Representation

    Severe car accidents demand the attention of a Texas personal injury attorney. Negotiating on your own is unlikely to result in a fair settlement that provides you with everything you deserve. Without substantial experience, it’s easy to fall prey to unfair insurance company practices.

    At The Fell Law Firm, our attorneys have helped countless clients with a range of personal injury claims. We know when an offer is not what it should be. Call our offices today at 972-450-1418 or send us a message to schedule a consultation.

  • How Weather Conditions Impact Liability in Texas Car Accidents

    Texas is known for its unpredictable and sometimes extreme weather. Our state is large enough to have several climate zones, so drivers have to be ready to handle almost anything. When an accident occurs during inclement weather, does this affect who is responsible for the accident?

    Yes, weather can affect liability in Texas car accidents. Here, we’ll cover a few ways the law takes weather into account.

    Understanding Liability in Texas

    Liability for injuries or other damage caused by a car accident comes down to who is at fault for the crash. In Texas, the rule to determine who is at fault is called “modified comparative fault.”

    That means two things for drivers: First, if you are more than 50% at fault for a crash, you can’t collect damages. Second, let’s say you’re less than 50% at fault and can collect damages. In that case, however much fault is assigned to you, your recovery is reduced by that percentage.

    How Does Weather Fit In?

    First, you should note that bad weather will not, by itself, absolve a driver from liability. All drivers are required to operate their vehicles in a safe manner under all conditions.

    What Is Safe Driving?

    Safe driving means something different in a thunderstorm than it does on a clear day. Whether you’re dealing with ice, fog, rain, hail or high winds, you’re expected to drive safely.

    People often assume that going the speed limit or below means they’re driving safely. But, in certain conditions, that could still be too fast for safe driving. Similarly, driving with no headlights on is fine at noon on a sunny day. But it could mean a driver is found negligent if heavy clouds and precipitation are in play.

    How Is Fault Determined?

    If you’re operating your vehicle appropriately, and another driver is not, the fault could lie entirely with the other driver. However, you may also be at fault, depending on the weather and the actions you took.

    If you were in a car crash, no matter the weather, you should reach out to an attorney. Your attorney can look at the facts of your accident and let you know whether you may have a personal injury case. To prove the other driver was at fault, your attorney would consider what was safe for the conditions at the time of the accident.

    Shared Liability

    Bad weather can increase the likelihood that drivers will share the blame for a crash. If the weather is so extreme that any kind of driving is unsafe, every driver on the road could be guilty of negligence. Something like black ice can trip up driver after driver, leading to multi-car accidents where everyone has fallen into the same slippery trap.

    Shared liability can complicate a car accident case, making the determination of fault and proper compensation more difficult. Weather can be a complicating factor. These issues require the assistance of a personal injury lawyer who understands Texas law.

    The Fell Law Firm Can Help You

    Whatever the cause of your accident, having an experienced attorney on your side is vital. At The Fell Law Firm, our Texas personal injury attorneys know how to help you maximize your recovery. Contact us online or call 972-450-1418 to schedule a consultation.

  • Failing To Signal: Liability in Car Accident Cases

    Turn signal use is one of those things that drivers know is important but sometimes ignore anyway. As in the case of distracted driving, it’s easy to talk about doing things correctly, but doing so is something different.

    Turn signals can prevent accidents. They can also protect your right to compensation if there is a crash where you are injured.

    Blinkers Are Important Safety Equipment

    There are several good reasons to use your turn signal. First, Texas law requires drivers to use their blinkers to signal turns and lane changes. It also requires signals when you’re entering the road after leaving a parking spot. Signaling is the law, regardless of whether there’s a pedestrian or another driver to see it.

    Second, people are good at forming bad habits and not so good at correcting them. If a driver gets into the habit of not using their turn signal regularly, they’ll likely forget to use it at some point when it matters. Bad driving habits can be deadly, so we should all avoid forming them in the first place. See the top safety tips for driving!

    Third, your failure to signal can lead to bad behavior by other drivers. Even if you’re in total control of your vehicle, others might not be. If drivers collectively get the sense that turn signals are unnecessary, more accidents will be the result. You should model the behavior you want other drivers to copy.

    Liability and Turn Signal Use

    Imagine you check your mirror and move into the lane next to you without signaling. What your mirror check didn’t catch is that another driver is coming up fast because he’s driving way over the speed limit. He’s also not paying attention. The collision that results will endanger your life. But, unfortunately, in the law, it’s also considered partially your fault.

    In personal injury cases, Texas law uses a form of liability based on proportionate responsibility. Even if an accident is mostly someone else’s fault, the amount you can recover will be reduced by how much you are considered at fault.

    Failure to signal your lane change will take some of the responsibility off of the speeding, inattentive driver who hit you and transfer it to you. If you failed to signal and are considered more than 50% responsible for a collision, you would not be able to collect any personal injury compensation.

    Car Accidents Are No Laughing Matter

    Mention that a driver appears to be low on blinker fluid and you’ll probably draw a chuckle. The failure to signal can seem like a very small matter—until it causes a deadly crash. At that point, it becomes crystal clear why signaling is required.

    If you or a loved one has been involved in a car accident, you need an experienced Texas personal injury attorney on your side. Call The Fell Law Firm at 972-450-1418 or contact us online to schedule a consultation.

  • Mistakes That Can Derail Your Texas Car Accident Claim

    We like to think that seeking compensation after a car accident is pretty straightforward. Insurance companies simply look at the facts surrounding the accident, right?

    Wrong. The things you do even days or weeks after the crash can help or harm your case. Sometimes even facts from months later can affect what compensation you receive.

    Following the right course of action and getting the help of a Texas auto accident lawyer can give you a much better result. Here are our tips.

    5 Mistakes to Avoid After an Accident

    If you’ve been injured in an accident, we want you to be able to receive the maximum compensation possible. To do that, try to avoid these common mistakes.

    1. Failing to Call the Police

    Even if the accident seems minor, or if the other driver tries to convince you to keep insurance out of it, always call the police. A police report provides an official record of what happened and often includes key details that can help establish fault.

    Without it, it becomes your word against theirs, which is not a good position at the bargaining table or in court.

    2. Failing to Seek Medical Attention

    Some injuries don’t show symptoms right away or appear minor at first. Still, it’s important to see a doctor right away, just in case.

    If you seek treatment later, it makes it easier for the insurance company to argue that your injuries were caused by something else, rather than by the accident. See a doctor immediately and follow any recommendations they give you. This creates a clear medical record linking your injuries to the crash.

    3. Trusting the Insurance Company

    The insurance company is not on your side—even your own insurance company. The job of every insurance professional is to minimize payouts. A win for the insurance company is generally a loss for you.

    Insurance adjusters are trained to get you to say things that can weaken your claim so they can deny it. Consulting with a personal injury attorney before giving any statement can make a big difference in your case.

    4. Discussing the Case on Social Media

    A major event like a car accident may seem like a prime topic for social media. But if you’ve been in an accident, it’s best to avoid posting anything, even about unrelated topics.

    Insurance companies often monitor social media accounts. Even posts unrelated to the crash can be twisted to suggest you’re not actually hurt. When in doubt, stay silent online until your case is resolved.

    5. Not Hiring an Experienced Texas Car Accident Attorney

    Trying to handle your car accident claim on your own can be a costly mistake. Texas personal injury law is complex, and insurance companies have teams of lawyers working to protect their bottom line. Without legal representation, you may accept a lowball offer or miss an important deadline.

    A skilled attorney can take control and ensure you receive proper compensation for medical bills, lost wages and pain and suffering.

    Contact The Fell Law Firm Today to Get Started

    At The Fell Law Firm, our experienced attorneys can help you avoid common traps that can harm your case. After a car accident, call our team at 972-450-1418 or contact us online to find out how we can help.

  • Car Accident Claims and Insurance Adjusters

    Car accidents are difficult for many reasons. After an accident, one potential source of frustration is the insurance company and its representatives. The insurance company of the driver at fault typically pays for car crash damages. Insurance adjusters can feel like a major impediment to getting the compensation you deserve after a crash.

    What Does an Insurance Adjuster Do?

    For accident victims, the important thing to remember is that the insurance company (even your own) is not on your side. Insurance companies are in business to make money, like every other company. They don’t make money by paying full compensation in a timely manner. The insurance adjuster is there to limit their expenditure by paying you as little as possible.

    When you file a claim with an insurance company, they assign an adjuster to the case. The adjuster investigates the claim and decides whether the insurance company should deny the claim or pay it and how much the payment should be.

    A key part of the adjuster’s job is to review the insurance policy or policies in light of the details of your claim. If the adjuster can find a way out of paying the claim, the insurance company will consider that a win. In some cases, an adjuster will even say an accident is not covered by the policy when, in reality, it is.

    Beyond reviewing the coverage in the policy, the adjuster might also contact witnesses, review police reports and speak to anyone involved in the accident. Accident victims need to be careful when talking to the insurance adjuster. If the adjuster can interpret a statement in a way that avoids liability, they’ll do so.

    Watch Out for Early Settlement Offers

    There are many tricks an adjuster can use to avoid paying full compensation. Among the most common is the early settlement offer. If the adjuster knows the company will have to pay, they can offer far less than the full value of the claim. If you accept the offer, you can’t come back later and ask for more.

    But a serious car accident can put victims and their families under terrible pressure. Medical bills pile up quickly. Serious accidents generally put the victim out of work for weeks, months or even permanently. An early offer can be incredibly tempting when you’re in a dire financial situation.

    Multiple Claims Adjusters

    It’s not unusual for the insurance company to use different claims adjusters, depending on whether there is litigation. The insurance company may change its stance at that point. If you don’t receive a fair offer, taking the matter to court may be your only option.

    A Personal Injury Attorney Can Help You

    Insurance adjusters know how to protect their employers. You need someone on your side to make sure they don’t take advantage of you. At The Fell Law Firm, our Dallas car accident lawyers can take on the insurance companies. Call us at 972-450-1418 to discuss your case in an initial consultation.

  • After the Car Accident: Common Mistakes That May Hurt Your Claim

    After an accident, your adrenaline will be running high. You may feel overwhelmed and struggle to think logically. All of this is completely valid after a traumatic event. However, there are some things you should try your best to avoid after a car accident, especially if you’ll need to file a claim for compensation.

    4 Common Mistakes to Avoid After a Car Accident

    1. Declining Medical Care

    Even if your accident was a small fender bender, it’s important to seek medical care immediately. Many injuries such as whiplash may not show symptoms until days or weeks after your accident.

    Other serious injuries that require immediate attention such as traumatic brain injuries (TBIs) may not show any symptoms at all.

    Not only does seeking medical care protect you from further injury, but it also helps build your case. Medical records are critical pieces of evidence you’ll need to seek compensation.

    2. Failing to Obtain a Police Report

    You should always call the police after an accident of any severity. This ensures a police report is on record for your accident. A police report is often used during cases to prove the accident occurred. Plus, the report may help prove who is at-fault.

    3. Taking the Blame for the Accident

    It’s often second nature to apologize after an accident, whether you were at-fault or not. However, whatever you do, don’t take the blame. When speaking to other drivers involved or the police, stick to the facts. Admitting fault in any way may negatively impact your case.

    4. Talking to the Insurance Company First

    After an accident, it’s tempting to reach out to insurance as soon as possible, especially as medical bills and car repair invoices start to arrive. However, we recommend reaching out to an attorney first.

    The insurance company may try to get you to accept a fast settlement. Unfortunately, this may not be enough to cover all of your damages. An attorney can communicate with insurance companies on your behalf and help you seek the compensation you need to move forward.

    Involved in a Car Crash? Reach Out to The Fell Law Firm Today.

    An attorney can help you navigate the aftermath of your accident and advise you further on what to do and what to avoid. At the Fell Law Firm, we have years of experience supporting car accident victims in Texas. Reach out to us today for a consultation by calling 972-450-1418  or send us a message.

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