Austin Personal Injury Attorneys

Types of Personal Injury Cases We Handle

Our seasoned lawyers represent clients in a wide range of personal injury claims, including:

• Bicycle accidents
• Car accidents
• Crime victim injuries
• Premises liability
• Trucking accidents
• Negligent security
• Rape and sexual assault victims
• Shooting victims
• Slip and fall cases

Assessing Your Personal Injury Claim in Austin

We conduct a careful investigation for each type of personal injury claim we take on. For example, in trucking accidents, we analyze driver logs, maintenance records, and the commercial entity's safety policies to determine liability. Our accident lawyers in Austin work with experts in accident reconstruction and medical fields to support your claim with credible and professional insights.

Our dedication extends beyond simply resolving your immediate concerns. In cases involving crime victim injuries, negligent security, or sexual violence, we understand the broader implications for our clients' safety and well-being. We advocate for our clients with sensitivity and diligence, ensuring your voice is heard and your claim is handled with the utmost care and attention.

Determining whether you have a personal injury case involves assessing several key factors: 

• First, you need to establish whether the person or party responsible for your injury owed you a duty of care, such as a driver obeying traffic laws or a property owner maintaining safe premises. 
• Second, you must determine if there was a breach of this duty, whether through negligence, recklessness, or intentional misconduct. It's crucial to demonstrate that this breach directly caused your injury, establishing a clear link between the responsible party's actions and the harm you suffered. 
• Additionally, you need to have suffered measurable damages as a result of your injury, such as medical expenses, lost wages, or pain and suffering. 

Consideration of the statute of limitations is also essential, ensuring that your claim falls within the allowable timeframe for filing a lawsuit. Consulting with an Austin personal injury attorney is often the most effective way to assess whether you have a viable claim. When you contact Cofer & Connelly, PLLC, we can evaluate the specifics of your situation, advise you on the strength of your claim, and guide you through the legal process to pursue compensation for your injuries and losses.

Understanding Comparative Negligence in Texas Injury Cases

In Texas, you may still be able to recover compensation for your injuries if you were partially at fault for the accident. Texas follows a modified comparative negligence rule, specifically known as the "51% bar rule." Under this rule, you can still seek compensation as long as you are found to be less than 51% responsible for the accident.

Here's how it works:

• Comparative negligence: If you are partially at fault for the accident, your total compensation will be reduced by the percentage of fault attributed to you. For example, if you are found to be 20% at fault for the accident, your total compensation will be reduced by 20%.
• 51% bar rule: However, if you are determined to be equally or more at fault than the other party (51% or more), you will be barred from recovering any compensation for your injuries under Texas law.

It's important to note that Texas follows a modified version of comparative negligence, which means that even if you are partially at fault, you can still recover damages. This is different from states that follow a pure contributory negligence rule, where you are barred from recovery if you are found to be even 1% at fault.

Should I Accept a Settlement Offered By the Insurance Company?

It is important to remember that insurance companies do not have your best interests in mind. The way they make money is by collecting premiums from their clients and paying out as little as possible. Therefore, you can expect any offer they make is going to be lower than you actually deserve. Even if the figure sounds appealing, you should always consult with a knowledgeable legal team to see if your claim is worth more. Agreeing to a settlement too early may result in a forfeiture of your rights to fair compensation.

Our injury lawyers in Austin guide you through the nuances of evaluating a settlement offer. We analyze every component of the offer, including potential long-term consequences that may not be immediately apparent. In doing so, we ensure you are empowered to make informed decisions about whether to accept a settlement or pursue further legal action. This strategic counsel is essential in protecting your future interests and ensuring all avenues for compensation are considered before moving forward.

Texas Statute of Limitations for Personal Injury

If you have been the victim of an injury in Texas due to negligence, you may have a claim to acquire financial relief. As with most states, Texas does have a time-period in which you can file a lawsuit. This period is two years from the date the incident took place. If you miss the deadline, a judge may throw out the claim and award no compensation. 

However, there are exceptions to this rule which may extend the time limit. These exceptions include:

• If you have been sexually assaulted and need time to heal emotionally, physically, or mentally
• If you have been exposed to chemicals such as asbestos and need treatment
• Injuries that result in you becoming disabled

Our Texas personal injury lawyers are ready to take your call today!

Why Choose Cofer & Connelly for Your Austin Injury Claim

There are several compelling reasons to hire a personal injury lawyer if you've been injured due to the negligence or wrongdoing of another party, including:

• Legal expertise: Personal injury lawyers have specialized knowledge and experience in personal injury law. They understand the legal complexities of your claim, including statutes of limitations, liability laws, and procedural rules, and can navigate the legal process on your behalf.
• Case evaluation: A personal injury lawyer can assess the merits of your claim during an initial consultation. They can review the circumstances surrounding your injury, determine liability, and advise you on the potential value of your claim.
• Negotiation skills: Personal injury lawyers are skilled negotiators who can advocate for your rights and negotiate with insurance companies or opposing parties on your behalf. They will work to secure a fair settlement that adequately compensates you for your injuries and losses.
• Evidence gathering: Personal injury attorneys have the resources and expertise to gather evidence to support your claim. This may include obtaining medical records, accident reports, witness statements, and expert opinions to strengthen your claim.
• Legal representation: If your claim goes to trial, a personal injury lawyer will provide experienced legal representation in court. They will present your claim to a judge and jury, cross-examine witnesses, and argue on your behalf to seek maximum compensation.
• Maximizing compensation: Personal injury lawyers understand the types of damages you may be entitled to, including medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and punitive damages. They will work diligently to maximize the compensation you receive for your injuries and losses.
• Peace of mind: Dealing with the aftermath of a personal injury can be overwhelming and stressful. By hiring a personal injury attorney, you can focus on your recovery while they handle the legal aspects of your claim, providing you with peace of mind during a difficult time.

Overall, hiring a personal injury attorney in Austin can significantly improve your chances of obtaining a favorable outcome and receiving the compensation you deserve for your injuries and losses. If you've been hurt, don't wait to reach out to our team at Cofer & Connelly for help.

Local Insights & Resources for Injury Claims in Austin

Texas is known for its specific regulations regarding personal injury claims, and understanding these local nuances can be critical for achieving a successful outcome. At Cofer & Connelly, PLLC, we leverage our extensive knowledge of the local laws and infrastructure to strategically craft strong arguments in favor of our clients. Austin, with its busy traffic and active lifestyle, is prone to a variety of accidents. Understanding the common causes and types of incidents that occur here helps us prepare more thoroughly for our claims.

For instance, Downtown Austin is a hub for bicycle and pedestrian accidents due to its dense public spaces. We've worked with clients involved in incidents on major routes like I-35 and MoPac Expressway, where congestion often leads to severe vehicle accidents. Familiarity with these common scenarios allows us to anticipate potential defenses posed by opposing parties. Our commitment to community knowledge and localized legal strategies ensures that we are fully equipped to handle any challenges head-on, maintaining our tradition of excellence in client advocacy.

Frequently Asked Questions About Austin Personal Injury Claims

What Steps Should I Take Immediately After an Accident?

Safety should be your first priority following an accident. Ensure that you and others involved are safe, moving to a secure location if necessary. Next, contact emergency services immediately for any injuries or potential hazards. Document the scene by taking photos or videos, capturing vehicle positions, visible injuries, and any road conditions that may have contributed to the accident. Collect contact information from other parties involved, as well as any witnesses. Report the accident to the local authorities, ensuring an official report is filed. It’s important to seek medical attention promptly, even if injuries appear minor, as symptoms can manifest later. After attending to immediate issues, consult with Cofer & Connelly, PLLC to discuss your claim. We can help guide you through the subsequent stages, including dealing with insurance adjusters, gathering further evidence, and exploring legal options.

How Long Will It Take to Resolve My Personal Injury Claim?

The duration of a personal injury claim can vary significantly depending on the complexity of the claim. Simple claims may resolve in a few months, while those involving extensive evidence or multiple parties can take years to conclude. Factors such as the severity of your injuries, the willingness of insurance companies to negotiate, and the need for court proceedings all impact this timeline. At Cofer & Connelly, PLLC, we are committed to pursuing a timely resolution without compromising on thoroughness or due diligence. Our strategic planning and client-driven approach allow us to navigate these processes as efficiently as possible, providing you with updates and realistic expectations throughout each phase of your claim. Rest assured, our goal is to help you achieve a fair outcome as swiftly as the circumstances permit.

Can I Still File a Claim If the Accident Was Partially My Fault?

Yes, in Texas, you may still pursue a claim even if you shared some responsibility for the accident, thanks to the state's modified comparative fault rule. Under this legal provision, you can obtain compensation if you are found to be less than 51% at fault. However, your compensation will be reduced according to your degree of fault. This means if you are 20% liable, any damages awarded would be reduced by 20%. It's crucial to accurately assess and argue your level of fault to optimize your potential settlement. At Cofer & Connelly, PLLC, we meticulously evaluate the facts surrounding your accident and craft a defense to minimize your fault percentage. Our dedication ensures you are positioned to receive the highest possible compensation under the prevailing legal framework in Austin.

What Types of Compensation Can I Expect in a Personal Injury Claim?

In a personal injury claim, you may be eligible for several forms of compensation, broadly categorized as economic and non-economic damages. Economic damages include tangible losses such as medical expenses, lost wages, and costs associated with rehabilitation or permanent disability. Non-economic damages compensate for more subjective losses, like pain and suffering, emotional distress, and loss of consortium. In certain scenarios, punitive damages may also be awarded if the responsible party's conduct was especially reckless or malicious. Each category aims to restore your balance of life as closely as feasible to the pre-accident state. At Cofer & Connelly, PLLC, we work diligently to identify all possible avenues for compensation, ensuring a comprehensive claim that fully addresses every aspect of your injury and its impact on your life.

Cofer & Connelly: Your Advocates for Fair Compensation in Austin

In personal injury law, no two claims are the same. Countless factors come into play regarding the type of accident, nature and extent of the injuries, percentage of liability, and types of losses incurred. With so much to take into consideration, it is important to have a knowledgeable legal advocate on your side who can help you sift through all the legal jargon and develop a strong claim for compensation.

At Cofer & Connelly, PLLC, our personal injury lawyers take the time to evaluate all the nuances of your claim. We make sure all liable parties are held responsible and every loss you incur is accounted for. This includes making accurate calculations for the compensation you deserve based on medical bills, rehabilitation costs, lost wages, diminished earning capacity, pain and suffering, disfigurement, and more. Once we determine how much you are owed, we can negotiate with the insurance company for rightful compensation. 

If they refuse a fair settlement, we can take your claim to court to fight for every dime you deserve.

If you have been injured in an accident, call Cofer & Connelly, PLLC at (512) 991-0576 or contact us online!