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Car accidents are unfortunately common across the State of Texas. While the safety features in cars have come a long way, collisions always have the potential to inflict serious damage on anyone involved. If you were injured in a car accident that was someone else’s fault, you may be able to bring a lawsuit that will compensate you for your harms.
Drivers owe a duty to take reasonable care while driving to avoid accidents. This means following the rules of the road. However, plenty of accidents happen every day because of erratic or unsafe driving. When someone causes an accident through negligent or reckless behavior behind the wheel, they are liable for the damages to those that they harm. These damages may include the victim’s medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering. But plaintiffs only have two years from the date of the accident to file their lawsuit.
You do not have long to wait. If you were injured in a car accident caused by someone else, call the Frisco car accident lawyers at The Queenan Law Firm. We are proud to put our clients first, and we will work hard to see that you are compensated for your injuries. For a free consultation, call us at (817) 476-1797.
Common Causes of Car Accidents in Frisco, TX
Many drivers engage in dangerous driving practices every day without thinking of the consequences if they were to cause an accident. It is easy for a situation to get out of control when drivers behave erratically. Below are just a few of the most common types of driving behaviors that can create liability for an accident:
Swerving or Weaving
Particularly in areas of dense traffic, drivers can get frustrated and attempt to avoid delays by weaving across lanes rapidly. If a car switches between lanes suddenly, fellow drivers may be caught off guard. Failing to use a turn signal or check blind spots can only exacerbate the potential for harm.
Texting
Even while a car is stopped at a red light, taking your eyes off the road to check your phone creates a situation where you are unaware of your surroundings. This is never safe when you are behind the wheel.
Speeding
Speed limits are created with driver and passenger safety in mind. Driving at excessive speeds, particularly on unfamiliar roads, creates a hazard with serious or potentially lethal consequences.
Tailgating
Drivers are responsible for leaving enough room between their car and the car in front of them to allow for a safe stop. In lawsuits for injuries after rear-end car accidents, the driver in the rear is almost always found to be at fault.
Drunk Driving
Alcohol and drugs can significantly hinder a person’s motor function, reasoning skills, and reaction time. All of these are key in operating a vehicle safely on public roads. If a person causes an accident while driving under the influence, they could be subject to punitive damages in addition to everything else that they might already owe in compensation to their victims. For more information on how damages work, keep reading below or speak to one of our experienced Frisco car accident lawyers.
Damages in a Car Accident Injury Lawsuit in Frisco, TX
If you are successful in your car accident injury lawsuit in Frisco, the court will determine the amount of compensation that you receive for your injuries. This compensation is calculated as “damages.” Damages are meant to address both the economic and non-economic costs that come with a car accident injury.
Economic damages will include the cost of any medical treatment that you receive. Emergency care, surgical procedures, specialist appointments, and physical therapy will all be counted as economic damages.
If your injuries keep you from meeting the responsibilities of your job, the court will consider your lost wages or decreased earning potential in their award of economic damages.
Non-economic damages exist to compensate victims for the consequences of injuries that cannot be easily valued, such as pain and suffering. There is no doubt that car accident injuries can cause significant psychological issues and physical issues, and Texas law will recognize that for a successful plaintiff.
In certain situations, a court may also award punitive damages. Punitive damages are determined based on the defendant’s conduct rather than the plaintiff’s condition. It is common to see punitive damages awarded in instances of extremely reckless behavior, such as drunk driving or street racing accidents.
Statute of Limitations for a Car Accident Injury Lawsuit in Frisco, TX
The State of Texas limits the delay in filing potential personal injury claims to two years from the date of the accident. This limit, known as the statute of limitations, is a total bar to all claims. That means that a person who fails to file their lawsuit within the two-year time limit will have their case rejected in a Texas court.
Preparing to file a lawsuit can take time, particularly where the injuries are complex or where more than two cars were involved in the accident. Further, the sooner you file, the sooner you will see any compensation from your lawsuit. For these and other reasons, it is in your best interest to contact a Frisco car accident lawyer as soon as possible.
Talk to a Frisco Lawyer About Your Car Accident Injury Lawsuit Today
At The Queenan Law Firm, P.C., we want to see our clients get the compensation they need to comfortably recover from their injuries. Your first consultation with one of our Frisco car accident lawyers is free of charge. To schedule your appointment, call us at (817) 476-1797.