Morgans Point Car Accident Lawyer: What to Do and How an Attorney Can Help
Car accidents are an unfortunately common occurrence in Morgans Point and the surrounding areas of Houston, Texas. In 2020 alone, there were over 12,000 serious injury crashes and 3,896 traffic fatalities across the state, according to the Texas Department of Transportation. If you or a loved one has been involved in a car wreck in Morgans Point, it’s crucial to know what steps to take to protect your rights and recover the compensation you deserve. An experienced Morgans Point car accident lawyer like those at the Rodney Jones Law Group can guide you through the process and fight for your best interests.
Common Causes of Car Accidents in Morgans Point
There are many potential causes of auto accidents in the Morgans Point area. Some of the most common include:
Distracted Driving
Distracted driving is one of the leading causes of crashes nationwide. In Texas, nearly 1 in 5 crashes involve distraction. Common distractions include:
- Texting, talking on the phone, or using apps while driving
- Eating, drinking, or grooming behind the wheel
- Adjusting audio or navigation systems
- Interacting with passengers
The Texas Department of Transportation reports that in 2020, 364 people were killed in crashes involving distracted driving across the state.
Speeding and Reckless Driving
Speeding reduces a driver’s ability to safely control their vehicle and increases the risk of accidents. Reckless driving behaviors like weaving between lanes, tailgating, and running red lights are also dangerous and can lead to serious wrecks.
Drunk Driving and Driving Under the Influence of Drugs
Despite public awareness campaigns and strict laws, drunk driving remains a major problem. According to NHTSA, 28 people die every day in drunk-driving crashes in the U.S.—one every 52 minutes. Driving while impaired by drugs, both illegal and prescription, is also increasingly causing accidents.
Road Hazards and Weather Conditions
Hazardous road conditions caused by poor maintenance, inadequate signage, or bad weather can contribute to crashes. Some examples include:
- Improperly marked construction zones
- Missing guardrails, barriers, or safety systems
- Potholes, cracks, or uneven pavement
- Rain, ice, or standing water on the road
- Fog, smoke, or sun glare obstructing visibility
Skidding Accidents
Skidding accidents are especially common during wet or icy conditions. If you find yourself skidding:
- Remain calm and avoid slamming on the brakes
- Take your foot off the accelerator
- Gently steer into the direction of the skid
- When you regain traction, slowly straighten the wheel
What to Do Immediately After a Car Accident
The moments after a crash can be chaotic and overwhelming, but the steps you take are important for both your safety and your potential legal claim. Here’s what to do:
Check for Injuries and Call 911 if Needed
Your first priority should be the health and safety of yourself, your passengers, and others involved. Quickly assess the situation and check for any injuries. If anyone is hurt or you are unsure, call 911 right away for medical assistance. Even if injuries seem minor, it’s best to get checked out.
Move Vehicles to a Safe Location if Possible
If the accident is relatively minor and the cars are driveable, move them to the shoulder or a nearby parking lot to avoid obstructing traffic and prevent further accidents. However, if there are serious injuries, significant vehicle damage, or any danger, leave the vehicles where they are.
Exchange Information with Other Drivers
Exchange contact and insurance information with all other drivers involved. Be sure to get their:
- Name and contact information
- Driver’s license number and expiration
- License plate number
- Insurance company name and policy number
Use your phone to take clear pictures of their license, registration, and insurance card in case any information is incomplete or illegible.
Gather Evidence and Document the Scene
Collect as much evidence as possible while at the scene, as it can be difficult to obtain later. Take plenty of photos and videos showing:
- Damage to all vehicles involved from multiple angles
- Any injuries you or your passengers sustained
- The positions of the vehicles
- Road conditions, weather, traffic signs and signals
- Any other relevant details like skid marks or debris
If there were any witnesses, ask for their names and contact information in case their testimony is needed.
Notify Your Insurance Company
Contact your insurance company as soon as possible to report the accident. Provide the basic facts of what happened, but avoid admitting fault or giving a recorded statement until you have consulted with an attorney.
Seek Medical Attention Even if You Feel Okay
It’s common not to feel pain immediately after a crash due to the adrenaline and shock of the event. However, many car accident injuries like whiplash, concussions, and internal bleeding may not have obvious symptoms at first. Failing to seek prompt medical care can not only risk your health, but also damage your legal case. Be sure to see a doctor as soon as possible after the accident, even if you feel fine. Follow your doctor’s advice and treatment plan closely.
The Role of a Morgans Point Car Accident Lawyer
Dealing with the aftermath of a serious car accident is stressful and confusing. You may be facing extensive medical bills, lost income from missing work, pain and suffering, and other losses. The at-fault party’s insurance company may contact you and attempt to pressure you into accepting a quick, lowball settlement. An experienced Morgans Point car accident attorney can handle every aspect of your claim and fight to get you the maximum compensation possible.
Investigate Your Case and Gather Additional Evidence
Your lawyer will conduct a thorough, independent investigation of the crash to uncover all the facts and determine what really happened. They may:
- Visit the accident scene and take photographs
- Interview eyewitnesses
- Obtain police reports and accident records
- Review traffic cam or surveillance camera footage if available
- Analyze vehicle damage and accident reconstruction reports
- Consult with medical professionals about your injuries and prognosis
Determine Liability and Prove Negligence of the Other Party
Texas is an “at-fault” car insurance state, meaning the driver who caused the crash is responsible for any resulting damages. To have a successful claim, you must be able to prove that the other party was negligent. Common examples of driver negligence include:
- Distracted driving
- Speeding
- Running a red light or stop sign
- Failure to yield
- Unsafe lane changes
- Tailgating
- Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs
Your attorney will gather evidence of the other driver’s negligence and build a strong case on your behalf. In some cases, there may be multiple liable parties, such as:
- The manufacturer of a defective vehicle or part that caused the accident
- The government entity responsible for a dangerous road condition
- The bar or restaurant that overserved a drunk driver
- An employer of a driver who caused an accident while on the job
Handle All Communication and Negotiate with Insurance Companies
Insurance companies are in business to make money, not pay out claims. They often use tactics to try to minimize payouts, such as:
- Offering a quick, lowball settlement before you know the full extent of your injuries
- Requesting a recorded statement and then using your words against you
- Unfairly denying or undervaluing your valid claim
Your Morgans Point car accident lawyer will take over all communication with the insurance companies and protect you from saying anything that could damage your case. They will handle all negotiations to reach a fair settlement.
Ensure You Receive Proper Medical Treatment and Care
Your health and recovery should be your top priority after an accident. However, your attorney can also help you find the right doctors and specialists to diagnose and treat your injuries. They will make sure you are getting the care you need and that your medical records are properly documented to support your claim.
Calculate Your Total Damages
Many car accident victims don’t realize the full value of their claim. Your lawyer will identify all the damages you have suffered, which may include:
- Past and future medical expenses
- Lost wages and reduced future earning capacity
- Property damage to your vehicle
- Pain and suffering
- Mental anguish
- Loss of enjoyment of life
- Disfigurement or permanent impairments
Economic damages like medical bills and lost income are relatively straightforward to calculate. For non-economic damages, your attorney will use their knowledge and experience to determine an appropriate value, often based on the severity of your injuries and past case results.
Negotiate a Fair Settlement or Represent You in Court if Needed
Armed with strong evidence of liability and a full accounting of your damages, your lawyer will negotiate aggressively with the insurance company to secure a fair settlement offer. In many cases, this is successful. However, if the insurance company refuses to make a reasonable offer, your attorney may recommend filing a personal injury lawsuit. Going to trial is rare, as most cases settle out of court, but your lawyer will be fully prepared to present your case to a judge and jury if needed.
Example Cases and Successful Settlements
At Rodney Jones Law Group, our Morgans Point car accident lawyers have a track record of success in securing significant settlements and verdicts for crash victims. For example:
- $4.7 million settlement for a man who suffered traumatic brain injury after being hit by a commercial truck
- $3.2 million settlement for a woman who was seriously injured in a head-on collision with a drunk driver
- $1.8 million settlement for a man who suffered spinal cord injuries in a rollover accident caused by a defective tire
While every case is unique, we have the experience, skills, and resources to help car accident victims maximize their financial recovery.
Why Choose the Rodney Jones Law Group
After a car accident, choosing the right lawyer can make all the difference in your case outcome. Here are a few key reasons to trust the Rodney Jones Law Group with your claim:
Experienced Morgans Point Car Accident Attorneys
Our legal team has over 35 years of combined experience and has handled all types of motor vehicle accident cases across the Greater Houston area. Founding attorney Rodney Jones has been featured on numerous radio and media outlets for his legal expertise.
Successful Track Record
We have a proven history of getting results for our clients, with over $100 million recovered in settlements and verdicts. We prepare every case for trial and won’t hesitate to take your case to court if the insurance company won’t make a fair offer.
Client-Focused Approach
We understand the physical, emotional, and financial toll a serious accident can take. Our attorneys provide personalized attention and will be with you every step of the way. We take the time to listen to your story, answer your questions, and understand your unique needs and goals.
24/7 Availability
We know that accidents don’t happen on a 9-to-5 schedule. That’s why we are available 24/7 to take your call and offer a free, no-obligation consultation. Hablamos Español.
No Fees Unless We Win
We work on a contingency fee basis, meaning you pay nothing upfront and no fees at all unless and until we recover money for you. If we don’t win, you don’t pay.
Serving the Entire Morgans Point Area
Based in Houston, we help car accident victims throughout Morgans Point and the surrounding areas, including Alief, Angleton, Danbury, Dayton, Deer Park, Dickinson, Galveston, Kingwood, Pasadena, and Webster.
Frequently Asked Questions
Texas follows a modified comparative negligence rule, which means you can still recover damages as long as you were less than 51% at fault for the accident. However, your recovery will be reduced by your percentage of fault. So if you were 20% to blame, your compensation would be reduced by 20%. An attorney can help minimize your liability and fight any unfair blame assigned to you by the other party.
It’s almost never in your best interest to accept an insurance company’s first offer. Their goal is to settle quickly and cheaply, before you know the full extent of your injuries and damages. An experienced lawyer can evaluate any settlement offers and advise if it is fair or if you should negotiate for more.
If you were injured in a crash caused by someone else’s negligence, you may be entitled to compensation for:
- Medical expenses (past and future)
- Lost wages
- Reduced earning capacity
- Pain and suffering
- Emotional distress
- Loss of enjoyment of life
- Property damage
- Punitive damages (in rare cases)
An attorney can identify all your damages and calculate the full value of your claim to ensure you aren’t leaving any money on the table.
In most cases, you have two years from the date of the accident to file a personal injury lawsuit in Texas. This is known as the statute of limitations. There are certain exceptions that can extend or shorten this deadline, but they are rare. It’s important to speak with a lawyer as soon as possible, as crucial evidence can disappear and witness memories can fade over time. If you wait too long, you could lose your right to recover any compensation.
Most reputable car accident lawyers, including Rodney Jones Law Group, work on a contingency fee basis. This means that you pay no upfront costs to hire them, and they only collect a fee if and when they recover money for you, either through a settlement or court verdict. There are no out-of-pocket costs to get started, and you pay nothing if they don’t win. The lawyer’s fee is typically a percentage of the total recovery secured on your behalf.
For more questions and answers, visit our FAQ page.
Conclusion
Dealing with the aftermath of a serious car wreck is never easy, but you don’t have to face it alone. By taking the right steps after an accident and consulting with an experienced Morgans Point car accident lawyer, you can protect your rights and maximize your chances of a full financial recovery.
At the Rodney Jones Law Group, we have a proven track record of success in helping crash victims get the justice and compensation they deserve. We offer free, no-obligation consultations, and there are no fees unless we win your case. If you or a loved one has been injured in a car accident in Morgans Point or the surrounding areas, don’t hesitate to call us 24/7 at 832-377-5529 (832-37RJLaw) or contact us online for a free case review. Hablamos Español.
Rodney Jones Law Group
6464 Savoy Drive Suite 800
Houston, TX 77036
832-377-5529
https://www.rodneyjjoneslawgroup.com/
Contact Us
Reach out to Rodney Jones Law Group at 832-377-5529 for immediate assistance and a free consultation. For more information on various practice areas and legal services, visit our website at Rodney Jones Law Group. Your path to recovery starts here!
Main Points
| Main Points |
|---|
| 1. Car accidents are common in Morgans Point and surrounding Houston areas. |
| 2. Common causes include distracted driving, speeding, drunk driving, and road hazards. |
| 3. After an accident, check for injuries, call 911, move to safety, exchange info, gather evidence, notify insurance, and seek medical care. |
| 4. A car accident lawyer can investigate, prove liability, handle insurance companies, ensure proper medical care, calculate damages, and negotiate a fair settlement. |
| 5. Rodney Jones Law Group has experienced attorneys, a successful track record, a client-focused approach, 24/7 availability, and works on contingency with no fees unless they win. |
| 6. In Texas, you generally have two years to file a car accident lawsuit. You can recover damages even if partially at fault, as long as your fault is less than 51%. |
| 7. Never accept an insurance company’s initial lowball settlement offer without consulting an attorney. |
| 8. Rodney Jones Law Group offers free consultations and serves Morgan’s Point and surrounding areas. Contact them 24/7 at 832-377-5529. |
Why Clients Trust Us
The Rodney Jones Law Group is a family-based law firm built on trust, dedication and experience. We protect and fight for our clients as if they are a part of our family. This relationship gives them confidence that we will fight our best to win their case.
- 832-377-5529
- 832-37RJLaw
- calls@rjoneslawgroup.com
- www.rjoneslawgroup.com
- 6464 Savoy Drive Suite 800, Houston, TX 77036
Contact Us Now!
To contact us, fill out the form below and we’ll get back to you within 24 hours.
