If you’ve been hurt in a collision, a Garland car accident lawyer can help you pursue the compensation you need to recover. Car accidents often bring more than just temporary stress; they can cause overwhelming medical bills, missed paychecks, and lifelong complications.
With so much at stake, you deserve an advocate who will fight tirelessly for your rights. At Hartley Law, we combine aggressive legal strategy with compassionate client service to help Garland crash victims rebuild their lives.
Experienced Garland Car Accident Attorneys Ready To Serve You
Hartley Law has extensive experience handling Texas car accident claims, including those right here in Garland. We know how to deal with insurers, navigate local courts, and address the challenges Garland residents face after a crash. Our firm offers tailored legal strategies and clear communication to guide you through each step of your case.
With a contingency fee model, you pay nothing up front. We only collect if we win your case. Our deep knowledge of Garland’s roads and Dallas County crash patterns gives us the insight needed to advocate effectively. Call today for a free consultation and take the first step toward recovery.
Why You Need a Hartley Law Car Accident Attorney on Your Side
Insurance companies aim to minimize payouts, and even “minor” accidents can become complicated when medical treatment and liability questions arise. Without legal help, many victims settle for far less than they need.
Hartley Law can:
- Investigate the crash and determine liability
- Handle all insurance negotiations
- Calculate the full scope of damages
- File and manage legal paperwork
- Take your case to trial if needed
Having a lawyer ensures you don’t face insurers alone and gives you the best chance of securing fair compensation.
What to Do After a Car Accident in Garland
Being involved in a car accident can leave you feeling overwhelmed and unsure of what to do next. Taking the right steps immediately after a crash is critical, not only for protecting your health but also for strengthening any future claim you may bring. By acting quickly and carefully, you can preserve important evidence and protect your legal rights.
- Call 911: Request medical help and ensure a police report is filed.
- Collect driver and witness info: Get names, contact details, and insurance information.
- Take photos: Document vehicle damage, road conditions, and visible injuries.
- Seek medical care: Even mild pain can indicate serious injury.
- Report to your insurer: Notify your company promptly.
- Avoid the other driver’s insurer: Don’t give statements without legal counsel.
- Call a Garland car accident lawyer: Hartley Law can step in immediately to protect your claim.
Following these steps helps ensure nothing is overlooked in the critical hours after a crash. Quick action can mean the difference between a strong claim backed by evidence and a weaker one that insurers can challenge. Hartley Law provides guidance from the start so your case is built on solid ground.
What Not to Do After a Garland Car Accident: Common Mistakes
Just as there are important steps to take after a crash, there are also key mistakes to avoid. Even small missteps – often made in the heat of the moment – can create serious obstacles when it comes time to recover compensation. Knowing what not to do can help you protect your health, your rights, and the strength of your case.
- Admitting fault at the scene: Even casual apologies may be used against you.
- Failing to get medical treatment: Delays weaken your claim and allow insurers to argue injuries weren’t serious.
- Speaking with the other driver’s insurer: They may pressure you into lowball settlements.
- Posting on social media: Insurers often monitor accounts for evidence to undermine your claim.
- Accepting an early settlement: Initial offers are usually far below the true value of your case.
Avoiding these common errors can significantly improve your chances of receiving fair compensation. With a Garland personal injury lawyer by your side, you gain an advocate who protects your rights and prevents costly mistakes.
Injured in a Car Accident? Here’s What to Do Next
The steps you take now can make or break your case. Let us guide you through the process. Speak to a Garland Car Accident Attorney Today.
You handle recovery. We’ll handle the rest.
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Who Can Be Held Liable in a Garland Car Accident?
Determining who is legally responsible after a car accident is one of the most important and often most complicated parts of any case. Texas follows an at-fault system, meaning the person or party who caused the crash must pay for the resulting damages. Because multiple parties may share blame, identifying liability requires careful investigation and legal analysis.
- The at-fault driver: The most common source of liability.
- Vehicle owner: If someone else was driving their car.
- Employers: When employees cause crashes while working.
- Manufacturers: If a defective part caused the accident.
- Government agencies: For unsafe roads or lack of maintenance.
Holding the correct parties accountable ensures victims have the best chance at full recovery. Hartley Law examines every detail of your case, from roadway conditions to vehicle records, to uncover all possible sources of compensation..
What Compensation Can You Recover in a Car Accident Claim?
Car accidents don’t just cause physical pain; they often lead to overwhelming financial and emotional consequences as well. Many victims face mounting medical bills, lost time from work, and long-term lifestyle changes that affect them and their families. Understanding the types of compensation available can help you see the full scope of what you may be entitled to after a crash.
Economic damages
- Medical expenses: Hospital bills, rehabilitation, and medications.
- Lost wages: Income lost during recovery.
- Vehicle repair/replacement: Damage to your car or property.
- Future treatment: Costs of ongoing care or therapy.
Non-economic damages
- Pain and suffering: Long-term physical and emotional toll.
- Emotional distress: Anxiety, depression, or PTSD.
- Disfigurement: Permanent scarring or appearance changes.
- Loss of enjoyment of life: Reduced ability to enjoy daily activities.
In extreme cases, such as crashes involving drunk or reckless drivers, punitive damages may also be awarded as punishment and deterrence. Each case is unique, and the exact value of your claim will depend on factors like injury severity, fault, and long-term impact. Hartley Law carefully calculates damages to ensure our clients don’t settle for less than they truly deserve.
What Evidence Do You Need to Prove Your Car Accident Case?
Winning a car accident case often comes down to the strength of your evidence. The more proof you can provide about what happened and how it impacted your life, the harder it is for insurance companies to deny or minimize your claim. Collecting and preserving evidence quickly is crucial because it can disappear or weaken over time.
- Police reports: Provide official documentation of the accident.
- Photos and videos: Capture the crash scene and damage.
- Medical records: Link injuries directly to the accident.
- Witness statements: Support your version of events.
- Expert testimony: Accident reconstruction experts can clarify fault.
- Surveillance or dashcam footage: Independent visual proof.
The right evidence tells the full story of your accident: who was at fault, how you were harmed, and what you’ve lost as a result. Hartley Law takes immediate action to gather, secure, and present this evidence in the strongest way possible. This attention to detail often makes the difference between a low settlement and a full recovery.
How Long Do I Have to File a Car Accident Claim in Garland, Texas?
Timing is one of the most important factors in any car accident case. Texas law gives you a limited window of time (known as the statute of limitations) to file a claim after a crash. If you wait too long, you may lose the right to pursue compensation, no matter how strong your case may be.
Under Texas law, you generally have two years from the date of the accident to file a personal injury claim. Exceptions may apply in certain cases, such as accidents involving minors, wrongful death claims, or injuries discovered later.
Failing to act within this deadline can permanently bar you from recovering damages. That’s why it’s so important to consult with a lawyer as soon as possible after your crash. Hartley Law helps Garland clients move quickly, ensuring their claims are filed on time and their rights are fully preserved.
Time Is Running Out on Your Claim
Texas law gives you just two years to file a car accident lawsuit. If you miss the deadline, you may lose your right to compensation forever.
Don’t wait. Don’t guess. Don’t Delay – File Your Claim Before It’s Too Late.
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Garland, TX Car Accident Statistics You Should Know
Car accidents are not rare in Garland – they’re a regular and dangerous part of life on the city’s busy roads. Reviewing local crash data shows just how serious the problem is and underscores why legal protections are so important for victims. These statistics provide a clearer picture of the risks drivers face every time they get behind the wheel.
- Garland (2024): 5,663 total crashes
- 22 fatal crashes resulting in 23 deaths
- 137 crashes causing suspected serious injuries
- Dallas County (2024): 56,944 total crashes
- 227 fatal crashes leading to 251 deaths
- 1,396 crashes causing serious injuries
Source: TXDOT
Garland’s roadways, including I-635, State Highway 78, and Jupiter Road, are known for high traffic volume, frequent speeding, and distracted drivers. Dallas County consistently ranks among the highest in Texas for both the total number of crashes and fatalities, showing how dangerous the area can be. These statistics show that crashes are not isolated incidents but an ongoing public safety issue that requires caution on the road and strong legal support afterward an accident.
Common Causes of Car Accidents in Garland, TX
Not all accidents happen the same way, but many of them share common underlying causes. In Garland, a large percentage of crashes can be traced to negligent or reckless driving behaviors that put others at unnecessary risk. Identifying these causes is critical for proving fault and holding the responsible party accountable.
- Distracted driving: Texting or using GPS while driving.
- Speeding: Increases both crash likelihood and severity.
- Drunk or impaired driving: A leading cause of fatal crashes.
- Running red lights/stop signs: Especially dangerous at busy intersections.
- Poor weather or road conditions: Rain and slick surfaces create hazards.
- Vehicle defects: Brake or tire failures can cause sudden accidents.
When someone chooses to ignore traffic laws or drive carelessly, they endanger everyone else on the road. Many car accidents are preventable events caused by poor decisions. Hartley Law works to expose this negligence and make sure victims aren’t left to carry the burden alone.
Common Injuries Suffered in Car Accidents
The injuries from a car accident can range from relatively minor to life-changing, but even so-called “minor” injuries may create lasting complications. In Garland, victims often face physical pain, emotional stress, and long-term financial challenges tied to medical care and recovery. Understanding the types of injuries that occur most frequently can help illustrate the true impact of a crash.
- Whiplash and neck injuries: From sudden jerking movements.
- Broken bones: Arms, legs, or ribs often suffer fractures.
- Traumatic brain injuries (TBIs): Caused by head impacts.
- Spinal cord injuries/paralysis: Life-changing and often permanent.
- Internal organ damage: Hidden but potentially fatal.
- Burns or disfigurement: From fires or airbag deployment.
- PTSD and emotional trauma: Lingering mental health struggles.
These injuries often require long-term treatment, rehabilitation, or even lifelong care. Beyond the physical toll, victims may suffer financial strain and emotional distress that affect every aspect of their lives. Hartley Law fights for compensation that reflects the full impact of your injuries and losses.
Types of Car Accidents We Handle
Car accidents in Garland come in many forms, and each type presents unique challenges for victims. Some crashes involve straightforward liability, while others are far more complex, requiring detailed investigation and legal strategy. By understanding the type of accident, we can better anticipate the injuries, damages, and legal issues involved.
- Rear-end collisions: Often lead to whiplash injuries.
- Head-on crashes: Typically catastrophic or fatal.
- T-bone accidents: Common at intersections with disputed right-of-way.
- Rollover accidents: Particularly dangerous in SUVs and trucks.
- Multi-vehicle pileups: Complex liability across multiple drivers.
- Hit-and-run accidents: May involve UM/UIM claims.
- Drunk driving crashes: Often eligible for punitive damages.
- Distracted driving accidents: Increasingly common with phone use.
- Accidents involving pedestrians/cyclists: Frequently severe or fatal.
Whatever the circumstances, Hartley Law brings the experience and resources needed to build a strong case tailored to your situation.
How Long Does a Car Accident Case Take to Settle?
One of the most common questions after a crash is how long the case will take to resolve. The answer depends on many factors, including the severity of injuries, the clarity of fault, and the willingness of the insurance company to negotiate in good faith. While some cases can be settled quickly, others may require extensive litigation.
Timelines can range from a few months to more than a year, depending on the details of the case. Disputes over liability, slow responses from insurers, or the need for expert testimony can all add time. Hartley Law works diligently to push cases forward while balancing the need for timely results with the importance of securing the full compensation you deserve.
Injured in a Car Accident? Don’t Face It Alone
Car accident cases can be complex. Get Legal Help Now from a Garland attorney who knows how to fight for you.
- No fees unless we win
- Fast, confidential consultations
- 100% focused on your recovery
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How Does Insurance Work in a Garland Car Accident Case?
Insurance plays a central role in every car accident case, but understanding the system can be confusing. Texas follows an at-fault system, meaning the driver who caused the crash (and their insurer) is responsible for paying damages. Unfortunately, insurers often take advantage of this complexity to reduce what they pay victims.
- Liability insurance: Covers damages caused to others.
- PIP (Personal Injury Protection): Covers your own medical costs, regardless of fault.
- UM/UIM coverage: Protects you when the at-fault driver lacks sufficient insurance.
Because insurers are motivated to pay as little as possible, handling claims on your own can be risky. At Hartley Law, we take over communications with the insurance companies so our clients don’t have to worry about lowball offers or manipulative tactics.
Can I File a Car Accident Claim Without Insurance?
Yes, if you weren’t at fault. However, lacking insurance may expose you to penalties and limit your options. Legal guidance is critical in this situation.
What If the At-Fault Driver Doesn’t Have Insurance?
If the at-fault driver is uninsured, you can file under your UM/UIM policy. Without such coverage, a lawsuit may be necessary, though recovery depends on the driver’s assets. Hartley Law explores every possible avenue for compensation.
Ready to Take Action? Contact a Garland Car Accident Lawyer at Hartley Law
Hartley Law is committed to protecting crash victims across Garland and Dallas County. With proven results, personalized service, and no upfront fees, we’re here to fight for your recovery. Call 469-502-5307 or complete our online form to schedule a free consultation today.
FAQs About Garland Car Accident Lawsuits
How much does a car accident lawyer cost?
Hartley Law works on a contingency fee basis, meaning you pay nothing unless we win.
Do I need a lawyer for a minor accident?
Yes, especially if injuries or liability disputes exist. Even “small” crashes can cause costly medical bills.
Can I recover damages if I was partially at fault?
Yes. Texas law allows recovery if you’re less than 51% at fault, though your award will be reduced proportionally.
Do I have to go to court after a car accident?
Not always. Many cases settle, but Hartley Law prepares every case for trial to maximize leverage.
How long will my case take?
It varies. Some cases resolve in months, others in a year or more, depending on complexity.
What’s the average settlement?
There is no fixed amount. Settlements depend on medical bills, lost wages, and injury severity, ranging from thousands to potentially six figures.
Should I talk to the other driver’s insurer?
No. Always consult with a lawyer first. Insurers may use your statements to weaken your claim.
You Deserve Justice — Let’s Go Get It
With Hartley Law on your side, you don’t have to face the situation alone.
- Proven results
- Personal attention
- Fierce advocacy
Schedule Your Free Consultation today. It costs nothing to speak with us, and everything if you don’t.
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