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An auto accident can be a stressful and frustrating experience for everyone involved, but hiring a Dallas car accident lawyer can help lighten that load. If you’ve been injured in an accident caused by a negligent driver, there’s a lot to manage—paperwork, evidence gathering, investigations, and negotiations—all to ensure you get the fair settlement you deserve. The claims process can feel overwhelming, especially while you’re still recovering from injuries. Without experience in personal injury law and dealing with claims adjusters, you might end up with less compensation than you truly deserve. Having a Dallas car wreck lawyer by your side can ease the burden and greatly improve your chances of securing the settlement you’re entitled to.
When you work with a lawyer from Loncar Lyon Jenkins, we’ll protect your rights and work tirelessly on your behalf to help you get the compensation you deserve. Our experienced attorneys will handle every detail, from investigating the accident and gathering evidence to negotiating with the insurance company and representing you in court. We understand what it takes to build a strong case that proves liability and supports your pursuit of fair compensation.
Car accidents in Dallas occur daily, with several key factors contributing to collision risks across the metropolitan area. Common causes of car accidents in Dallas include distracted driving, following too closely, failure to yield, and speeding.
Other common causes of auto accidents in Dallas include:
Poses a major risk on Dallas roads, involving activities like texting (which takes eyes off the road for 5 seconds), device use, eating, and grooming. Texas law prohibits reading or writing electronic messages while driving, with fines up to $200 for violations.
Leads to frequent rear-end collisions, particularly during rush hours on major highways. The safe following distance is 3 seconds minimum, increasing to 4+ seconds in poor weather. This is especially problematic on I-35E and I-635 corridors during peak traffic times.
Commonly occurs at complex intersections and highway merges, especially around the LBJ Freeway interchanges. These violations frequently lead to T-bone accidents and pedestrian incidents, often combined with speeding infractions.
Contributes to 30% of Dallas accidents, with doubled fines in construction zones and strict enforcement in school zones. The North Central Expressway sees frequent speeding incidents, which increase stopping distance and crash severity.
DUI incidents peak between 10 PM and 3 AM, especially on weekends and holidays. Texas enforces a 0.08% BAC limit, with first offenses carrying up to $2,000 in fines and 90-365 days license suspension.
Include 75+ active construction sites, frequent lane closures downtown, and weather hazards like flash flooding. The 311 system handles pothole reports, while inadequate lighting and signage create additional risks.
Accounts for 40% of daily accidents during rush hours, with major bottlenecks at the High Five interchange and downtown Dallas. Stop-and-go conditions increase collision risks, particularly during morning and evening commutes.
By recognizing these common causes, drivers can take proactive steps to avoid accidents. Maintaining safe distances, staying alert, and following traffic laws significantly reduces collision risks on Dallas roads.
Each year, Loncar Lyon Jenkins represents over 7,000 clients all over Texas and will travel to any city or town within the Lone Star state.
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Each year, Loncar Lyon Jenkins represents over 7,000 clients all over Texas and will travel to any city or town within the Lone Star state.
Yes, speeding significantly impacts Dallas accident rates:
By following the posted speed limit and steering clear of drivers who are exceeding the speed limit, you can reduce your risk of being involved in a motor vehicle collision in Dallas.
The types of injuries most commonly sustained in car accidents range from minor to life-threatening. Understanding these common injuries helps victims recognize symptoms and seek appropriate medical care.
Common car accident injuries include:
Occurs when the head jerks violently forward and backward, straining neck muscles and ligaments. Symptoms may include neck pain, stiffness, headaches, and reduced range of motion. Most common in rear-end collisions, symptoms can appear hours or days after the accident.
Range from herniated discs to complete paralysis. High-impact collisions often cause vertebrae damage, potentially leading to permanent disability. The thoracic and lumbar regions are particularly vulnerable during side-impact and rollover crashes.
Result from violent head movement or direct impact. Symptoms include confusion, memory loss, headaches, and consciousness changes. Even seemingly minor accidents can cause concussions, with symptoms potentially developing over time.
Commonly involve muscle strains, disc damage, and vertebrae fractures. Impact forces can cause immediate or delayed pain, mobility issues, and chronic conditions requiring long-term treatment.
Frequently occur in high-impact collisions. Common areas include ribs, arms, legs, and facial bones. Multiple fractures often result from side-impact crashes or vehicle rollovers.
Affect muscles, tendons, and ligaments. These include sprains, strains, and tears, particularly in shoulders, knees, and ankles. Recovery times vary significantly based on injury severity.
Result from broken glass, metal, or impact with vehicle interiors. While some are superficial, deeper wounds may require stitches and can leave permanent scarring.
Occur in accidents involving fire or chemical exposure. Severity ranges from first to third degree, potentially requiring skin grafts and specialized treatment.
Often accompanies physical injuries. Symptoms include anxiety, depression, flashbacks, and fear of driving. Mental health support is crucial for complete recovery.
Seeking immediate medical attention after an accident is essential, as some injuries may not be immediately apparent. Documentation of injuries also supports insurance claims and legal proceedings.
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To minimize accident risk in Dallas, start with essential safe driving habits, including maintaining a 3-second following distance, checking blind spots consistently, using turn signals, and following the speed limit.
Other ways you can avoid a car accident in Dallas include:
The 3-second following distance rule is crucial – count three seconds between when the car ahead passes a fixed point and when your vehicle reaches it. Increase this to 4-5 seconds in poor weather or night driving. This buffer allows time to react to sudden stops or hazards.
Blind spot checks prevent dangerous lane-change collisions. Develop a habit of checking mirrors and glancing over your shoulder before changing lanes. Be especially vigilant around large trucks, which have larger blind spots. Adjust mirrors properly to minimize blind zones.
Turn signals communicate your intentions to other drivers. Use them for all turns and lane changes, activating them at least 100 feet before your maneuver. This gives other drivers time to anticipate and react to your movements.
Speed limits are set for optimal traffic flow and safety. Following posted limits reduces accident risk, especially in school zones, construction areas, and during adverse weather. Speeding reduces reaction time and increases stopping distance, particularly on Dallas’s busy highways.
Distracted driving causes numerous accidents. Put phones on silent and out of reach. Avoid eating, grooming, or adjusting entertainment systems while driving. If you must take a call or respond to a message, pull over to a safe location first.
Plays an important role in accident prevention. Regular brake inspections, proper tire pressure, functional windshield wipers, and monthly checks of lights and signals help ensure your vehicle responds properly in emergency situations. Follow manufacturer-recommended service schedules to prevent mechanical failures.
Increase following distance in rain, use headlights in low visibility, and avoid sudden braking on wet roads. Check weather forecasts before long trips and adjust travel plans accordingly.
the I-35E/I-635 interchange, North Central Expressway, downtown Dallas corridors, school zones, and construction areas. These locations see higher accident rates and require increased vigilance.
By following these safety practices consistently, you significantly reduce your risk of accidents on Dallas roads. Remember that defensive driving means staying alert and anticipating potential hazards before they become dangerous situations.
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Following certain steps immediately after a car accident helps protect your safety and legal rights.
Here are the essential steps to follow:
Move vehicles to the shoulder if possible and turn on hazard lights
Call Dallas PD non-emergency if no one was injured.
Speak with law enforcement and provide only the facts. Do not admit fault. Get the incident report number and request a copy of the accident report.
Take photos of all vehicle damage, photograph the accident scene from multiple angles. Note weather and road conditions and record time, date, and location of the accident.
If anyone witnessed the accident, obtain their names and phone numbers.
Obtain driver’s license numbers, insurance policy details, vehicle registration, license plate numbers, phone numbers and addresses, vehicle make/model/year.
Get checked even if you’re feeling fine.
Speak with an experienced Dallas car crash attorney to learn about your legal rights and options.Take photos of all vehicle damage, photograph the accident scene from multiple angles. Note weather and road conditions and record time, date, and location of the accident.
Following these steps helps protect your interests and ensures proper documentation for insurance claims or legal proceedings. Remember to stay calm and focused on gathering necessary information.
Yes. By following these steps, you will link vehicle damage and injuries to the auto accident. Documenting the accident scene can provide important evidence that proves negligence. Obtaining witness contact information will allow your attorney to obtain their unbiased account of the accident, which can also prove fault. Talking to an attorney as soon as possible following the car wreck can ensure your rights are protected, while giving your case the best possible chance of success.
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A car accident lawyer in Dallas can help you with your claim by conducting a thorough investigation, reviewing the accident report, gathering evidence, interviewing witnesses, assessing damages, and negotiating with the insurance company.
Other ways a car accident lawyer can help are listed below:
A car accident lawyer can investigate the car crash to determine how it occurred and who should be held liable. Evidence may show that the other driver was texting at the time of the collision, or reveal that defective brakes contributed to the accident. At Loncar Lyon Jenkins, our legal team is prepared to take the steps that will uncover important evidence that can support your claim and your demand for damages.
An accident report will be completed by the responding law enforcement officer. In this report, your attorney will find information that can support your claim, such as:
Your attorney will speak with any witnesses to get their account of the events that led up to the accident. A witness can provide an unbiased account of the accident, which can help your attorney and the insurance company determine fault.
An attorney will calculate your damages to ensure you pursue the full compensation you’re entitled to based on medical bills, pay stubs, vehicle repair estimates, and other documentation. They may also consult with your physicians and other specialists to determine the cost of any future medical treatment that is needed.
A car accident lawyer will handle all communication with the insurance company, including settlement negotiations, to prevent you from saying anything that could damage your claim. They will bring every settlement offer to you and advise you on whether to accept the offer or to make a counteroffer.
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When choosing a car accident lawyer, consider their experience, client reviews, and track record handling similar cases. Good communication skills are also important.
Look for an attorney who specializes in car accident claims. An experienced attorney will know how to:
Read reviews and testimonials to learn what clients have to say about their experience working with the attorney. Learn what clients had to say about the attorney’s communication skills, pricing, and how they handled the case.
Look for an attorney who has experience with cases similar to yours and who has a track record of success. You can visit the Texas Bar Association website to view an attorney’s license and disciplinary record. You can also search for press releases or news articles regarding prior cases. This will give you an idea of an attorney’s success rate, professionalism, and experience.
To find the best car accident law firm in Dallas, start by researching firms’ experience with similar cases and their track record of settlements. Look for firms specializing in auto accidents rather than general practice law offices. Check online reviews, but focus on detailed testimonials that describe the firm’s handling of specific cases.
Most offer free initial meetings. During consultations, evaluate their communication style, case assessment approach, and willingness to explain legal strategies. Ask about their specific experience with Dallas courts and insurance companies.
And check for disciplinary actions. Look for board certifications in personal injury law and memberships in professional organizations. Consider the firm’s location and accessibility – choose one familiar with Dallas traffic patterns and local courts.
Most reputable firms work on contingency, meaning they only get paid if you win. Understand their percentage fee and how case expenses are handled. Avoid firms requiring upfront payments or making unrealistic promises about case outcomes.
A larger firm will have the experience and resources to thoroughly conduct an investigation and a network of experts who can provide testimony to prove the severity of your injuries or help establish fault.
At Loncar Lyon Jenkins, we have extensive resources for accident investigation, access to expert witnesses, and the ability to handle complex litigation. Despite our firm’s size, we ensure that each case receives the personal attention it deserves.
Our legal team combines experience, knowledge, and the resources needed to achieve the best possible outcome for your case. We are committed to providing the care and attention you deserve while maintaining transparent communication throughout the entire process.
The lawyers at Loncar Lyon Jenkins handle a wide range of car accident cases, including single-vehicle accidents, rollover accidents, head-on collisions, T-bone accidents, and rear-end accidents.
Other types of car crash cases we commonly handle include:
During the legal process, you should expect an attorney from Loncar Lyon Jenkins to first meet with you for a consultation, where you can discuss your legal options. After this step, your attorney will conduct an investigation, assess your damages, and begin settlement negotiations. If settlement negotiations are unsuccessful, they will file a lawsuit on your behalf and represent you in court.
During the legal process, you can expect:
When you meet with your attorney for the first time, they will review your case, including any evidence you brought, to determine if you have a valid claim. During the consultation, they will discuss your legal rights and explain how they will proceed with your case, including conducting an investigation and gathering evidence.
Shortly after your attorney takes your case they will conduct an investigation, which can involve obtaining several pieces of evidence, including:
They may consult with experts to help support your demand for compensation and prove liability.
Your attorney will gather medical bills, pay stubs, vehicle repair estimates, statements from your physicians, and other evidence that will help them to determine how much your claim is worth.
Your attorney will send a settlement demand letter, which outlines the details of your case, the evidence they have, the extent of your damages, and the amount of compensation you require to settle your case. This will set off the settlement negotiations process.
If an insurance company refuses to make a reasonable settlement offer your attorney may file a lawsuit on your behalf. The insurance company will be served and will have 30-60 days to respond. Once the lawsuit has been filed, the timeline is governed by deadlines that are set by the court.
The next part of the legal process is the discovery phase, which involves each side seeking information.
Discovery can take many forms, including:
During this time, your attorney will continue to negotiate with the insurance company. If a settlement still cannot be reached the case will proceed to trial.
Trial, if a Settlement is Not Reached: If both parties cannot reach a settlement, the case proceeds to trial. During the trial, both sides will present evidence and call witnesses. Each attorney will have an opportunity to ask questions on direct examination and cross-examination. Each side will present a closing statement. If it’s a jury trial, the jury will deliberate and render a verdict. If the outcome of your case is not favorable, you may be able to appeal the decision.
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How much compensation you can expect to recover from a car accident claim in Dallas will depend on the unique circumstances of your case, including the severity of your injuries, how much time you missed at work, the extent of vehicle damage, and other variables.
You can pursue economic damages (special damages) and non-economic damages (general damages.)
documentation to back up your claim. Documentation can include bills and receipts for medical treatment and vehicle repairs and statements from your employer regarding time missed at work.
Economic damages you may be entitled to include:
If you incurred medical expenses as a result of the accident, you can claim these damages. Medical expenses can include ambulance transportation, hospitalization, doctor visits, tests, surgeries, physical therapy, rehabilitation, medications,in-home services. If your doctor believes you will need medical treatment in the future, you can claim compensation for future medical costs.
If your injuries forced you to miss work you may be entitled to compensation to cover the hours you lost. If your injuries prevent you from ever returning to work you may be able to collect compensation for loss of earning capacity or loss of future earnings.
If the accident resulted in damage to your vehicle, requiring repairs or replacement, you can pursue compensation for property damage.
Are more subjective and it can be challenging to determine the value of these damages. These damages are meant to compensate the accident victim for the physical pain and emotional distress they have suffered due to the accident and their physical pain and emotional injuries.
Non-economic damages you may be entitled to:
Pain and suffering refers to the physical pain and emotional distress an accident victim experiences due to the injuries they sustained. Damages can include the pain the accident victim experiences at the time of the accident and throughout the recovery process.
A car accident can be a traumatic event that affects the accident victim’s mental well-being. If you experience post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), depression, anxiety, or another psychological issue, you can pursue compensation for emotional distress.
If your injuries prevent you from participating in activities you enjoy, such as attending social gatherings, sports, or hobbies, you can pursue compensation for loss of enjoyment of life.
At Loncar Lyon Jenkins, our car accident attorneys in Dallas determine the value of damages by using bills, pays stubs, repair estimates, statements from friends and family regarding how your injuries affect your life, documentation from your physicians and employer, and other types of evidence.
The value of your damages can depend on the following factors:
When calculating economic damages, your attorney will use documentation, such as medical bills, vehicle repair estimates, and paystubs.
Non-economic damages are more subjective, making it difficult for an attorney to accurately assess damages and come up with a sum.
Factors that can influence the value of general damages include:
Multiplier method:
The multiplier method calculates non-economic damages by applying a factor (typically 1.5 to 5) to economic damages like medical bills and lost wages. The multiplier increases based on injury severity, recovery time, impact on quality of life, permanent disabilities, and psychological trauma. For example, if medical bills total $50,000, using a multiplier of 3 would value non-economic damages at $150,000. Factors like clear liability, serious injuries, and strong evidence support higher multipliers, while pre-existing conditions may lower them.
Per diem:
The per diem method assigns a daily rate to pain and suffering, often using the victim’s daily earnings as a baseline. This rate is multiplied by the number of days the victim experienced pain and suffering. For instance, if assigned a $200 daily rate for 100 days of recovery, non-economic damages would total $20,000. This method requires detailed documentation justifying both the daily rate and duration of suffering.
Texas courts accept both calculation methods, though lawyers often use a combination to negotiate settlements. The key is providing clear documentation and justification for the calculations, whether using medical records, expert testimony, or other evidence supporting the claimed non-economic damages.
To come to a settlement amount that accurately reflects past, current, and future damages, your attorney may also consult with experts. This is especially important if you suffered injuries that will require future medical care, your injuries prevent you from ever returning to work, you experience chronic pain, or the injuries have impacted your quality of life.
At Loncar Lyon Jenkins, our attorneys serve the following areas in Dallas:
After a motor vehicle collision, there are several steps you can take to strengthen your claim in Dallas.
Here are the key steps to follow:
The first thing you should do after a car crash is get a medical evaluation. Your health is the most important priority. Even if you don’t feel injured, it’s critical to visit the emergency room as soon as possible. Some injuries, such as spinal cord or brain injuries, may not show immediate symptoms but can become serious if not treated quickly.
After receiving medical attention, take some time to write down everything you remember about the accident. These details will be crucial as they can help build your case. Memories can fade over time, and you may not remember the specifics of the crash months or even a year later. Document everything while it’s still fresh in your mind.
If someone else caused your crash, it’s important to reach out to a car accident attorney right away. Dealing with an accident claim can be overwhelming and complex. At Loncar Lyon Jenkins, our experienced legal team will manage every aspect of your claim, letting you focus on your recovery.
Avoid talking to the other driver’s insurance company. Insurance companies are not on your side—they’re focused on protecting their profits. Anything you say can be twisted to minimize the compensation you deserve.
By following these steps, you can significantly improve your chances of recovering a fair settlement for your losses.
Several factors contribute to the dangers of intersections in Dallas, including traffic volume, congestion, lack of signage, speeding, and distracted driving.
Other factors that can increase the risk of accidents at intersections include:
During peak traffic times, especially rush hour, the risk of accidents rises significantly. Congestion in cities like Dallas often leads to impatient driving, resulting in frequent collisions such as side-impact and rear-end accidents at intersections.
And inadequate lighting on some Dallas roads make it difficult for drivers to navigate intersections safely. Missing or unclear signs and poorly lit areas can create confusion, leading to accidents.
Uneven road surfaces, potholes, and faded lane markings can cause drivers to lose control or misjudge their position, increasing the likelihood of accidents at intersections.
Activities like texting, reading emails, or talking on the phone can divert a driver’s attention away from the road, leading to crashes.
Driving above the posted speed limit reduces a driver’s ability to stop in time or react to sudden changes in traffic, commonly resulting in rear-end collisions and T-bone accidents.
By understanding the factors that contribute to accidents at intersections, you can identify dangerous driving behaviors and reduce your risk of being involved in a car crash in the future.
How much it costs to hire a car accident attorney in Dallas can depend on many factors, such as the complexity of the case, location, and how much compensation is recovered. Typically, car accident attorneys in Dallas charge a contingency fee of 33% to 40%.
At Loncar Lyon Jenkins, fault determination begins with thorough evidence collection. Attorneys gather police reports, witness statements, surveillance footage, and accident scene photos. They analyze vehicle damage patterns, skid marks, and final resting positions to reconstruct the accident sequence. Medical records help establish injury causation and verify the accident’s impact.
A Dallas car accident lawyer will visit the accident scene, documenting road conditions, traffic signals, and visibility factors. They interview witnesses while memories are fresh and obtain statements from first responders. Expert accident reconstructionists may be consulted for complex cases, using specialized software to create detailed collision models.
Insurance claims, vehicle maintenance records, and cell phone records are reviewed to identify potential contributing factors. The legal team examines Texas traffic laws and regulations to determine which driver violated applicable rules. They also check for prior accidents or citations that may establish patterns of negligent behavior.
Multiple fault factors are common in Dallas accidents.
Yes. Texas follows a modified comparative fault system. Under this system, if the injured party is more than 50% at fault, they will not be eligible to recover compensation. This is also known as the 51% rule. Under the 51% rule, an accident victim can recover compensation based on their percentage of fault.
You should hire a Loncar Lyon Jenkins lawyer because our firm has extensive experience handling Dallas car accident claims, with over 7,000 cases successfully resolved and millions secured in settlements. Our team is available 24/7 for immediate case evaluation, and we work on a contingency fee basis – meaning you pay nothing unless we win your case. Our comprehensive approach includes a full-service investigation team, an established network of medical specialists and expert witnesses, and deep knowledge of Dallas courts and insurance companies. We handle all aspects of your claim while you focus on recovery, from gathering evidence and witness statements to managing insurance communications and filing legal paperwork. With decades of combined experience and hundreds of positive client reviews, our attorneys understand the complexities of Dallas traffic laws and local court procedures. Our firm’s size and resources allow us to effectively challenge major insurance companies while maintaining personalized attention to each client’s needs. Unlike smaller firms, we have the financial strength to support lengthy litigation when needed to secure fair compensation. We excel at documenting damages, negotiating settlements, and taking cases to trial when necessary. Our reputation among insurance companies and knowledge of their tactics helps us build stronger cases and achieve better outcomes. This combination of local expertise, proven results, and comprehensive client support makes Loncar Lyon Jenkins the optimal choice for your Dallas car accident claim.
Yes, you should seek legal advice after a car accident in Dallas if there are injuries, property damage, or disputes about fault. An attorney helps protect your rights by handling insurance negotiations, evaluating settlement offers, gathering evidence, managing medical bills and liens, filing required paperwork, and meeting Texas legal deadlines. Legal counsel is especially crucial if serious injuries occurred, multiple parties were involved, liability is disputed, commercial vehicles were involved, insurance denies the claim, damages exceed policy limits, or death resulted from the accident. Most Dallas accident attorneys offer free consultations and work on contingency fees, meaning they only get paid if you recover compensation.
You would need a car accident attorney to investigate your accident, gather evidence, and negotiate with the insurance company. Having a skilled Dallas auto accident lawyer on your side can significantly increase your chances of receiving a higher settlement. Without knowing your rights or the true value of your damages, you might end up accepting a settlement that doesn’t fully cover both your economic and non-economic losses.
In Texas, you will have two years from the date of the accident to file a lawsuit against the negligent party. If you fail to file within this time frame, you will be unable to recover any compensation for your accident-related losses. When you hire a car accident lawyer at Loncar Lyon Jenkins, they will handle every aspect of your case, including ensuring that your lawsuit is filed within the statute of limitations.
Yes. At Loncar Lyon Jenkins, our Dallas car accident lawyers offer free consultations to discuss your case, learn about your rights, and explore your legal options.
Clay Jenkins started his personal injury practice in 1989 after clerking for the Texas Supreme Court. He co-counseled some of Brian Loncar’s biggest cases for 25 years before purchasing an interest in the firm. He is the former Chairman of the Board of Advocates for the Texas Trial Lawyers Association and previously served as President of the Dallas Trial Lawyers Association. Learn More
Our highly experienced lawyers will contact you for a Free Legal Consultation.
If you were involved in a motor vehicle collision in Dallas, TX, seeking legal representation as soon as possible can significantly increase your chances of recovering compensation. At Loncar Lyon Jenkins, our car accident lawyers in Dallas offer free legal consultations to discuss your case and explore your legal options and rights. Contact us today to schedule your consultation to learn more about how we can help.
