Interstate 20 FAQ’s

Given the frequency and severity of car accidents that occur on I-20, there is a chance that you may be injured in a car accident while using the interstate.

Following an auto accident caused by another person’s careless or reckless driving, it is common to have questions regarding your legal options and right to compensation. This is a collection of some of the most common questions asked by injured victims following car accidents on I-20.

Why do so many accidents happen on Interstate 20?

There are several reasons why auto accident cases are reported on Interstate 20 every year. The most common causes of accidents on the interstate are drivers who engage in careless or reckless driving actions. Common acts of negligence that cause vehicle crashes on the interstate include:

  • Inattentive drivers
  • Fatigued driving
  • Impairment
  • Distracted drivers
  • Speeding drivers

In other instances, inclement weather and construction on the highway that blocks lanes of travel can severely hinder a driver’s ability to maintain control over their vehicles. Roadways that are crowded with tractor-trailers can also increase the chances of accidents taking place. Commercial vehicles can be much more difficult to drive, increasing dangers for other drivers traveling nearby.

What should I do after being in an accident on Interstate 20?

 If you are the victim of an auto accident on Interstate 20, you may be able to make a financial recovery after being injured. There are several things you should do to make sure your legal rights and best interests are protected. These include: 

  1. Call 911 Immediately: If you’ve been in an auto accident on Interstate 20, taking care of yourself and your passengers first is important. Contact 911 immediately to have the police and paramedics respond to the scene. An ambulance can transport you and other injured victims to local hospitals. It is crucial to undergo a medical exam to determine your injuries and how bad they are. Hold on to any medical bills you receive, as you will need this information later. 
  2. Request Law Enforcement at the Crash: Police will come to the scene and create a report of the auto accident. This report will show who was involved in the car crash, the insurance information of those involved, who was engaging in reckless driving practices, and what caused the accident. Get a copy of the police report for your records.
  3. Secure the Scene: Secure the scene of the collision if you can do so. If possible, move the vehicle you were driving to the side of the road, so it is not blocking traffic. Turn on your four-ways (emergency lights) to warn other drivers on the roadway. If you cannot move your vehicle, do not leave it until it is safe. 
  4. Gather Evidence from the Crash Site: Evidence that is found at the actual accident scene site can be critical when it comes to proving your side of the story. You will want to exchange insurance information with the other driver or drivers involved in the accident. If there are witnesses, get their contact information as well. Take pictures of the vehicles involved, the road conditions, and your injuries. These pictures will be beneficial when filing a claim for compensation later.
  5. Cooperate With the Authorities: Following an auto accident, it is important to cooperate with the authorities while at the actual accident scene. This includes law enforcement, emergency medical personnel, and other first responders. When asked, you will want to provide your name and contact information to the police and medical responders. 
  6. Contact Your Insurance Carrier: It is important to contact your insurance company as soon as possible. Your insurance carrier will need some basic information from you to start the claims process. They will need your name, address, phone number, and policy number. They will also need to know what happened in the accident and who was at fault. Be sure to give them as much information as possible so that they can help you get the best possible outcome. It can be helpful for you to consult with a car accident attorney before speaking with your insurance carrier by requesting a free consultation. 
  7. Keep Records: Following your collision, keeping records of what happened is vital. This includes taking pictures of the actual accident scene, getting the contact information of any witnesses, and writing down your recollection of events. You will want to keep medical bills that show your medical expenses, estimates to repair your vehicle, and other evidence to prove your damages.
  8. Contact an attorney: It is important to find a law firm with extensive experience handling car accident cases in your state. This is especially true if you suffered injuries due to another motorist’s careless or reckless driving. Each state has its own laws governing car accidents, so it is crucial to find an attorney familiar with the laws in the state where your Interstate 20 car accident occurred.

 Taking these steps can help to ensure your legal rights and best interests are protected as you move forward from your car accident.

Do I need to work with a personal injury lawyer after my Interstate 20 accident?

It is important to understand that you have no legal obligation to work with a personal injury attorney to represent you after your auto accident. However, retaining legal representation is in your best interest. After a car accident, it is important to understand your legal rights and options. You may be entitled to compensation for your injuries, property damage, and other losses. A personal injury lawyer can seek the maximum compensation for your legal case.

An experienced personal injury lawyer will know how to negotiate with insurance companies and get the best possible outcome for your case. If you were injured in a car accident on Interstate 20, contact a knowledgeable law firm today to schedule a free consultation to explore the legal options available to help you move forward.

What should I do during the free consultation?

It is important to understand that most personal injury attorneys offer free consultations. You should take advantage of this opportunity to meet with several attorneys and compare their services. During your consultation, asking questions about your car accident case is helpful. 

Be sure to ask questions about the attorney’s extensive experience handling claims for injured victims following car accidents, success rates, and how they would handle your case specifically.

When is the best time to contact an attorney after an injury accident on Interstate 20?

Injured victims should seek legal guidance as soon as possible after an auto accident on Interstate 20. In the time following a crash, the insurance adjustor for the at-fault driver will likely try to minimize the amount of money they have to pay. Having a skilled team from a seasoned law firm by your side can help ensure you are not taken advantage of by these self-serving entities. 

Waiting to reach out to an attorney can jeopardize the strength of your personal injury case. Waiting can result in lost evidence and the inability to reach out to witnesses. It can also result in you being unable to recall specific details of the crash. Reaching out to a law firm early on can ensure you have the strongest case possible and all the evidence you need. 

An experienced personal injury attorney will know how to investigate the incident, gather evidence, and negotiate with the insurance company to get you the maximum compensation possible. They will also be able to answer any questions about the legal process and help you navigate this difficult time.

What should I expect from a car accident lawyer?

 There are several things that you should expect from a car accident lawyer. Some of the services your attorney will provide you with throughout your claim include: 

  • Investigate your collision: The first thing that you should expect is for your lawyer to be able to gather all of the evidence that is necessary to prove your case. This includes police reports, witness statements, and any other relevant documentation.
  • Valuate your claim: Your lawyer will also work with you to determine what damages you are entitled to recover. An attorney at the law firm will review the information provided to determine the value of your case. This may include medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering. In some cases, punitive damages may also be available.
  • File documents in court: Your lawyer will also handle all paperwork and negotiations with the insurance company. This includes filing a claim, dealing with the adjuster, and preparing for trial if necessary.
  • Educate you regarding your legal options and rights: You should expect your lawyer to be available to answer any questions you have throughout the process. Your lawyer should also update you on your case’s status and let you know what to expect next.
How long do I have to file a claim after an injury accident on Interstate 20?

The time you have to file a legal claim after being injured in a traffic incident on Interstate 20 will depend on where your accident occurred. Each state along the route has a different statute of limitations when filing a legal claim for a personal injury accident or a wrongful death claim after losing a loved one.

In Texas, the statute of limitations for a personal injury case is two years from the date of the accident. The period to pursue a wrongful death claim in this state is two years following the date of death. 

In Louisiana, the statute of limitations for a personal injury case is one year from the date of the accident. The period to pursue a wrongful death claim in this state is one year following the date of death. 

In Mississippi, the statute of limitations for a personal injury case is three years from the date of the accident. The period to pursue a wrongful death claim in this state is three years following the date of death. 

In Alabama, the statute of limitations for a personal injury case is two years from the date of the accident. The period to pursue a wrongful death claim in this state is two years following the date of death. 

In Georgia, the statute of limitations for a personal injury case is two years from the date of the accident. The period to pursue a wrongful death claim in this state is two years following the date of death. 

In South Carolina, the statute of limitations for a personal injury case is three years from the date of the accident. The period to pursue a wrongful death claim in this state is three years following the date of death. 

It is important to understand that various circumstances can shorten the amount of time you have to pursue legal action. This is particularly true in cases involving government entities.

For this reason, you should schedule a free consultation with a law firm in your area to ensure you have the best chance of building a solid legal claim to help you prevail.

What is a Contingency Agreement?

The industry standard for paying a personal injury attorney for their services is through a contingency agreement. Rather than getting paid an hourly rate, lawyers who operate on a contingency fee collect a previously agreed-upon percentage of any compensation their client receives when they win or settle their case. Once a contingency fee agreement is in place, the lawyer only receives payment for their services if they have effectively represented their client. The percentage they receive is contingent on the case’s results and during which litigation stage it was settled. Contingency fees are practically omnipresent when it comes to personal injury cases. On average, a successful lawyer will take home anywhere from 20% to 50% of the damages awarded.

What should I do if I cannot afford to hire an attorney?

When seeking legal representation for your case, it is important to understand that auto accident claims are typically handled on a contingency agreement. If you choose not to hire legal representation, you will be responsible for any costs associated with your case. For this reason, seeking legal representation can help to ensure you do not have to pay any fees up-front to pursue legal action against the driver who caused your accident.

What is a contingency agreement, and how does it work?

Most auto accident cases are handled by attorneys for injured victims on a contingency agreement. A contingency fee basis means that the attorney will only be paid if you win your case or settle out of court. This can be a great option for those who don’t have the upfront money to pay for an attorney, but it’s important to make sure that you understand the terms of the agreement before signing anything.

How much is my car accident claim worth?

There is no straightforward way to answer how much your claim is worth. A review of the facts of your case, the available insurance coverage, and other information provided can give you a better understanding of the amount of compensation you may be able to recover. 

Generally speaking, there are many factors to consider when calculating the value of a car accident claim, including the severity of the injuries, the cost of medical treatment, lost wages, and property damage. In some cases, pain and suffering or emotional distress may also be compensated. 

An experienced personal injury attorney can help you determine the value of your claim and fight for the total amount of damages you are entitled to.

What damages am I entitled to recover after an Interstate 20 accident?

As the victim of an I-20 accident, you may be entitled to recover certain types of damages. These can include economic damages like vehicle repair costs, medical bills, and lost wages. You may also be able to recover non-economic damages as well, like compensation for the loss of enjoyment of life and the pain and suffering you experience. In some cases, punitive damages may also be available.

Contact a personal injury attorney in your area to learn more about the specific types of damages that may be available to you. An experienced lawyer can review the facts of your case and advise you on the best course of action.

How are pain and suffering calculated after a crash on Interstate 20?

Pain and suffering is one the most complex non-economic damages to calculate following a car accident. It can be challenging to put a price tag on the injuries they suffered to seek compensation. Generally speaking, pain and suffering damages are calculated based on the severity of the injuries you suffered, the length of time it takes to recover from the injuries, and the impact that the injuries have on your quality of life. 

In some states, such as Texas, pain and suffering damages are capped at a certain amount. In other states, there is no cap on pain and suffering damages.

How long will it take to settle my personal injury lawsuit after an I-20 collision?

The answer to this question depends on many factors, including the severity of your injuries, the amount of damages you are seeking, and the state in which your case is filed. It will also depend on whether the parties can reach a settlement agreement. If your case goes to trial, it could take months or even years to resolve. 

However, many personal injury cases are settled out of court. As a result, the time it takes to settle will depend on how complex your case is and how much you and the other party are willing to negotiate. An attorney will be able to help you reach a timely recovery for your lawsuit so you can move forward and focus on recovering from your injuries.

Should I provide the insurance company with a recorded statement?

After your accident, you can expect the insurance company to contact you for a recorded statement. Although there is no requirement to seek legal representation, it is in your best interest to speak with a law firm before providing a statement to the insurance company. 

If you provide a recorded statement to the insurance adjuster, it can be used against you in court. The insurance company will do whatever it can to trick you into taking fault for the crash. For this reason, they will try to use your recorded statement to deny you compensation or to minimize the amount of money they pay you for your damages. Reaching out to an attorney from a reputable law firm before giving your statement can help safeguard you against self-serving insurance companies. 

What are my rights if a family member was killed in an accident on Interstate 20?

 If a family member was killed in an accident on I-20, you might have the right to file a wrongful death lawsuit. Wrongful death laws allow certain family members to recover damages for the loss of their loved one, including medical bills, burial and funeral expenses, lost earnings, and pain and suffering.

How Will a Lawyer Prove Liability For My Interstate 20 Car Accident?

 To prove liability following an auto accident on I-20, a lawyer will need to review the police report, eyewitness accounts, and any other available evidence. They will also need to establish that the other driver was at fault for the accident.

The first step in proving liability is to review the police report. The police report will include important information such as the time and location of the accident, the weather conditions at the time of the accident, and a description of the accident itself. This information can be used to establish negligence on the other driver’s part.

Eyewitness accounts can also be beneficial in proving liability. If any witnesses saw the accident, their testimony can be used to establish what happened and who was at fault.

Any other available evidence can also be used to prove liability. This may include surveillance footage from nearby businesses or traffic cameras, as well as any photos that you or bystanders took. This evidence can be used to piece together a clear picture of what happened and who was at fault.

If you have been in a car accident while traveling on I-20, it is important to understand your rights and options. An experienced car accident lawyer can review your case and help you determine the best course of action. If you have any other questions about your rights and legal options, contact an Interstate 20 accident lawyer for a free consultation at your earliest convenience.  

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