Should I Get an Attorney?
An injured person should at least talk with an attorney before deciding to settle a claim or before deciding that there is no claim. We will consult with an injured person free of charge during the initial consultations and/or meetings. Often, insurance companies will try to get you to settle the claim with them before you talk to an attorney. Insurance companies know that, in most cases, they can get a case settled for a lot less against a person who does not have an attorney. Insurance companies, like all businesses, want to save money, and this is one way of meeting that goal.
Will You Your Firm Visit Me if I Am Unable to Travel?
If your injuries prevent you from coming to our offices, our office will schedule a time to meet with you at a convenient location, whether that is your home, a hospital, or some other location convenient for you.
How Do Lawyers at Your Firm Get Paid?
We represent our injured clients on a contingency fee basis. This means that we will be paid a percentage of the amount we recover for you, plus any costs and expenses that are necessary to resolve your case. People who have been injured often have medical bills and lost income that make it difficult or impossible for them to pay up front for the costs of investigating and pursuing a personal injury case. Our goal is to handle the case so that you can use your money to take care of yourself and your family while we pursue your claim. The initial consultation with our office are free of charge.
If I Am Injured, Does a Lawsuit Always Have to Be Filed in Order to Receive a Settlement?
No. 90% of our cases we are able to negotiate settlements with the other party’s insurance company after investigating your claim but before filing a lawsuit. However, sometimes insurance companies and corporations have to be forced to trial in order for you to receive compensation that is adequate and appropriate for your injuries and losses.
In a Lawsuit, Who Sues and Who Gets Sued?
In a lawsuit to recover damages for your personal injuries, you would normally file the lawsuit. The person sued is the person or corporation that committed the wrongful or negligent act. That person’s or corporation’s insurance company is not named as a defendant in most instances, although the insurance company is usually responsible for actually paying the claim.
What Am I Able to Recover in a Personal Injury Claim or Lawsuit?
In most personal injury cases, you would recover money damages from the negligent party's insurance company. The amount you recover will depend upon many variables, including the nature of your injuries, whether or not your injuries are permanent or disfiguring, the amount of your medical bills, the amount of your lost wages, the pain and suffering caused by your injuries, and many other factors, including how much insurance coverage the negligent party has available to pay a claim.
How Long Do I Have to Decide Whether or Not to Bring a Case Against the Negligent Party?
In Texas you must file your lawsuit within two years from the date of the accident in most cases. This is called the statute of limitations. However, in some cases, such as cases against governmental entities, you must give notice of your claim within 6 months of the date of injury or negligence or sooner. You should consult a knowledgeable attorney to determine the exact date when your Statute of Limitations will expire.
The Insurance Adjustor for the Insurance Company Wants to Settle With Me and Says That I Do Not Need a Lawyer, What Should I Do?
Please watch the video on this web site . Remember , the adjuster works for the insurance company. Insurance companies have one goal - to make money. They are in business to make money, not to help injured persons. The adjustor is charged with saving his company’s money, therefore his or her goal is to resolve your claim for the lowest amount possible. Many companies offer incentives and bonuses to adjusters for settling claims quickly and cheaply. You should always consult with a personal injury attorney before settling any claim.
Will My Insurance Go Up if I Make a Claim, File a Lawsuit, or Obtain a Verdict or Settlement?
No. If you make a claim, file a lawsuit, or get a recovery against a negligent party, your premiums will not go up.
What Is My Case Worth?
Please watch the video on this web site. The value of your case depends upon liability factors and the amount of your damages or losses. In a personal injury or car accident case, the value depends upon on the nature and severity of your injuries.and what a jury will likely award you for these damages.
How Long Will My Case Last?
Please see our video on this web site. Some cases last a few months; others take longer. It depends upon the specific facts of your case, the legal issues involved and the realistic expectations of the parties.
Will I Have to Testify in Court?
Most personal injury, wrongful death, and vehicle accident claims the case settles before going to trial. However, prior to trial, you may have to give deposition testimony to support the claims you are making.
When Should I Contact You?
Right away. You do not want to be taken advantage of by the other side prior to getting legal advice for your case or lose your rights because you waited too long. It is important to start working on your case immediately to protect all of your claims and advise you on important legal issues.
In Auto Accident Cases, Can I Still Recover if the Other Side Does Not Have Insurance?
If you have uninsured motorist coverage, you can still recover your monetary damages, payment of lost wages, medical bills and pain and suffering even if the other driver is uninsured.
Are You Familiar With the Courthouse in Tarrant County?
Yes, Eric Reyes has 30 years experience working in Tarrant County. He has litigated a personal injury case in every one of the 10 district courts that have jurisdiction on these matters in Tarrant County. Additionally, Mr. Reyes is excited that a new courthouse is open for business in Tarrant County. The Tom Vandergriff Civil Courts Building is now the current home of all 10 district civil courtrooms in Tarrant County. It is located at 100 North Calhoun St., Fort Worth, Texas 76196. The ribbon-cutting ceremonies occurred on August 11, 2015. This is a beautiful building with 40 foot tall limestone angels which were removed from the previous civil court building and are now installed on the new Tom Vandergriff Civil Courthouse. Each courtroom in this building contains the latest video and audio technology for presentation of cases in the courtroom.