If you were involved in a car accident in Tarrant County, you may feel overwhelmed by medical bills, vehicle damage, or simply not knowing where to turn. The first step is recognizing that qualified, compassionate help is available. Fort Worth car accident lawyer Paul Previte and the Fort Worth car accident attorneys at the Law Office of Paul Previte are here to protect your interests and fight for the compensation you deserve.
Below, we answer the most common questions people have about car accidents in Fort Worth, touching on local nuances, Texas car accident law, and what to expect from the claims process. Short answers are followed by concise explanations of the “why” behind the advice, so you can make more informed decisions about your next steps.
Who can help me after a car accident in Fort Worth?
After a collision, Fort Worth car accident lawyer Paul Previte is ready to step in and guide you. The Fort Worth car accident attorneys at the Law Office of Paul Previte, located at 6200 Airport Fwy, Haltom City, TX 76117, focus on representing crash victims and understand the unique challenges of navigating insurance claims, medical care, and stressful negotiations.
Why does this matter? Having a lawyer who knows Fort Worth roads and courts is invaluable. With over 25 years of legal experience, including time as a defense lawyer, prosecutor, and municipal judge, Attorney Previte understands how to build a strong claim from every angle. You also benefit from his local knowledge of accident hotspots like I-35W, I-20, and Airport Freeway—places where roughly 13,401 crashes happened in 2022.
If you’re unsure whether you have a valid claim, Attorney Previte offers free consultations. There’s no obligation, and he takes cases on a contingency fee basis, meaning no upfront costs to you.
What should I do after a car accident in Fort Worth?
Knowing what to do right after a crash can make a crucial difference. Start by checking for injuries, moving to a safe area, and calling 911. Seek medical attention even if you think you’re only slightly hurt. Document the scene with photos, gather driver and witness info, and be mindful of what you say to others.
Why take these steps? Following these protocols protects both your health and your legal rights. Medical records link any injuries to the wreck, which helps strengthen your claim. Official police reports, along with photos or witness statements, help establish the facts of what happened. By consulting Fort Worth car accident lawyer Paul Previte soon, you’ll also avoid common insurance pitfalls, such as adjusters trying to pressure you into a quick but unfair settlement.
How can a car accident lawyer help me with my claim (do I really need an attorney)?
Many people wonder if hiring a lawyer is necessary or if they should deal with insurers alone. Attorney Paul Previte and the Fort Worth car accident attorneys at his office can be a game-changer for your claim by handling paperwork, negotiating with insurers, investigating fault, and ensuring every dollar of compensation you’re entitled to is pursued.
Why is this important? Insurance companies do this every day; they’re skilled at minimizing payouts. Without a lawyer, victims often don’t realize how much their claim is worth, particularly if it involves long-term medical care or lost earning capacity. Having an experienced advocate levels the playing field. Statistically, claimants who hire counsel tend to recover significantly more than those who negotiate alone. In addition, it costs nothing upfront with a contingency arrangement, so there’s little to lose and potentially a lot to gain by having legal help.
Who is liable for my car accident injuries and bills?
Texas follows an “at-fault” system, meaning the person (or party) who caused the accident must cover the damages. Often, this is handled through an insurance claim against the negligent driver’s auto policy. However, sometimes multiple parties share liability, such as an employer if the at-fault driver was on the job or a manufacturer if vehicle defects contributed.
Why does this matter? Identifying all liable parties maximizes the potential sources of compensation. If you rely solely on one driver’s insurance—especially if they have minimal coverage—you might leave money on the table. By thoroughly investigating the crash, Attorney Paul Previte ensures that no liable entity is overlooked.
What if I’m partially at fault for the car accident?
Texas follows a modified comparative negligence rule. This means you can still recover compensation if you’re less than 51% at fault. If you share 20% of the blame, for instance, you can still recover 80% of your total damages. However, if your fault is 51% or higher, you lose the right to recover anything.
Why does this matter? Insurance companies love using partial fault against victims to reduce or deny claims. A skilled Fort Worth car accident lawyer can push back, gathering evidence to show the other party’s primary negligence. Even if you fear you’re partly responsible, it’s worth exploring your legal options to avoid bearing the full financial burden yourself.
What if the other driver doesn’t have insurance? (Or hit-and-run)
An uninsured or hit-and-run driver complicates things, but there are still ways to pursue compensation. If you carry uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage (UM/UIM) on your own auto policy, you can file a claim with your insurer. You could also consider a personal injury lawsuit against the at-fault driver, though they may not have sufficient assets. In a hit-and-run, it’s important to contact police immediately to try locating the driver.
Why does this matter? These scenarios can be stressful, but Attorney Paul Previte has handled many such cases. He can explore UM/UIM coverage, help you file the necessary claims, and investigate all possible recovery avenues. You shouldn’t have to shoulder the costs alone just because someone else broke the law or lacked insurance.
What types of compensation can I recover for a car accident?
You may be entitled to various damages, including:
- Medical expenses (current and future)
- Lost wages and reduced earning capacity
- Pain and suffering or emotional distress
- Property damage (vehicle repairs or replacement)
- Scarring/disfigurement
- Loss of consortium (in specific circumstances)
Why is this important? Crash victims often fixate on immediate medical bills and vehicle repairs. Yet the law recognizes deeper losses, such as ongoing pain, mental trauma, or future financial challenges. By talking to Fort Worth car accident lawyer Paul Previte, you ensure that none of these potential areas of compensation are overlooked in a hurried settlement.
How much money is my Fort Worth car accident case worth?
Every case is unique, but here are some key factors that affect value:
- Injury severity: More severe or permanent injuries often mean higher compensation.
- Medical bills: Total treatment costs, including estimated future care, set a baseline for damages.
- Lost income: Compensation can cover missed work and long-term impacts on your career.
- Pain and suffering: The level of emotional and physical distress also influences the total recovery.
- Clear liability vs. disputed fault: If the other driver’s negligence is obvious, your case tends to settle faster and for more money.
- Available insurance: The at-fault driver’s policy limits or any additional coverage discovered can cap or expand your potential recovery.
Why does this matter? Understanding these factors can help you set realistic expectations. Attorney Paul Previte investigates each aspect carefully to maximize what you receive. He won’t push you to accept a “quick check” if the insurers fail to account for your future medical needs or life changes.
How long will it take to settle my car accident case?
Many straightforward claims settle within a few months, especially if injuries are well-documented and liability is clear. More complex cases can stretch to a year or longer. Once you reach maximum medical improvement (MMI), your damages become clearer, which often speeds negotiation. If negotiations stall or the insurer refuses a fair offer, Attorney Paul Previte may recommend filing a lawsuit, which can extend the process by several more months.
Why does this matter? You deserve full compensation, not a rushed settlement that leaves you covering ongoing bills. Patience can pay off, but your lawyer should also move as efficiently as possible. Fort Worth car accident lawyer Paul Previte keeps clients informed at every step, so you understand any delays and how they serve your best interests.
How long do I have to file a lawsuit after a car accident in Texas?
The statute of limitations for most car accident claims in Texas is two years from the date of the crash. Missing this window typically means losing your right to file suit. Special exceptions can apply, such as if a government entity is involved, but you should never rely on just “plenty of time.” Evidence may vanish, and key witnesses may become unreachable if you wait too long.
Why is this important? Time is critical. Acting quickly gives your attorney the best chance to secure fresh evidence, such as surveillance footage or witness accounts. Even if you’re not sure you’ll need to sue, it’s wise to contact a lawyer soon—waiting can jeopardize your claim.
How much does it cost to hire a car accident lawyer?
Fort Worth car accident lawyer Paul Previte works on a contingency fee basis, which means there are:
- No upfront fees to start your case
- No hourly rates or hidden charges
- Payment only if you win, taken as a percentage of your recovered damages
Why is this important? Financial concerns often prevent people from contacting an attorney. With contingency arrangements, you have zero financial risk in seeking professional legal help. A free consultation also lets you get honest advice about your claim without fear of being billed just for a conversation.
Will I have to go to court for my car accident case?
Most claims settle out of court through negotiations or mediation. However, if the insurance company refuses to offer a fair sum, Attorney Paul Previte will file a lawsuit and bring your case to a Tarrant County courtroom if necessary. Because insurers know which lawyers will actually go to trial, having a seasoned trial attorney on your side can motivate higher settlement offers.
Why does this matter? Many crash victims fear a courtroom battle. Knowing that your lawyer is fully prepared to litigate can both reassure you and demonstrate to insurers that they can’t lowball your claim. Even when a lawsuit is filed, many cases still resolve before the final trial date.
How do I prove the other driver was at fault for my crash?
Proving fault typically requires strong evidence, such as a police report, witness statements, crash-scene photos, or traffic camera footage. Accident reconstruction experts can also testify in complex cases. Medical records help link your injuries to the collision.
Why is this important? Fault disputes are common. Insurance adjusters may try to undermine your credibility or blame you. Fort Worth car accident lawyer Paul Previte and his team know how to collect and present evidence that paints a clear picture of what happened, building a compelling case in your favor.
What if I lost a loved one in a Fort Worth car accident?
If a family member died in a crash caused by someone else’s negligence, you may have grounds for a wrongful death claim. Surviving spouses, children, or parents can usually file. Compensation can include funeral expenses, medical costs, and the loss of financial support and companionship.
Why does this matter? While no sum can heal the pain of losing a loved one, pursuing a wrongful death claim can ease financial burdens and hold the responsible party accountable. Attorney Paul Previte handles these cases with compassion, understanding how emotionally devastating it is for families, and working tirelessly to pursue some form of justice and closure.
How can I get a free consultation about my case?
To speak with Fort Worth car accident lawyer Paul Previte, call (817) 335-4357 or visit the office at 6200 Airport Fwy, Haltom City, TX 76117. You can schedule your free consultation, discuss your crash, and learn your legal options. There’s no obligation and no fee unless Attorney Previte wins compensation on your behalf.
Why act now? Your bills won’t wait, and the Texas statute of limitations clock is ticking. Early legal intervention keeps evidence fresh and positions your claim for success. You’ve been through enough—let a knowledgeable lawyer handle the insurance adjusters and legal details while you focus on healing.
Whether you’re facing mounting medical bills, dealing with uncooperative insurance companies, or grieving a devastating loss, Fort Worth car accident lawyer Paul Previte and the Fort Worth car accident attorneys at his office stand ready to help. Reach out now to learn about your legal options and start on the path toward healing and recovery.