Consult with an award-winning Amarillo car accident law firm to help you or your loved one after suffering injuries and property damage from a road crash. Call 361-201-0819 now for urgent assistance.
Based in Corpus Christi, The Patel Firm believes that anyone injured deserves quality legal representation in seeking compensation and justice. Feel free to read the verified testimonials of our satisfied clients in Amarillo and across Texas or browse through our five-star reviews on Google.
Why Choose The Patel Firm?
The Patel Firm is comprised of real people who are genuine, passionate and knowledgeable about what we do. We are approachable and are truly dedicated to our clients. Our personalized approach to providing legal solutions yields successful results and a high return rate from our clientele.
The firm’s president and principal attorney, Minesh J. Patel, has represented countless injury victims in various cases, including motor vehicle-related collisions, commercial trucking accidents, workplace accidents, oilfield accidents, insurance disputes, and premise liability accidents.
Over the course of his career, Minesh and his legal team have secured millions of dollars in settlements and jury verdicts. He is a member of the Million Dollar Advocates Forum, Rue Ratings’ Best Attorneys in America, and has been recognized as 40 best under 40 by The National Trial Lawyers Association.
Our tireless work ethic quickly becomes evident after you become our client. We are committed to your case, and we do not cut corners. We understand the financial strain that a car accident can bring, which is why we operate on a contingency fee basis.
Our clients pay no upfront fees, and we only receive payment if we successfully secure compensation on their behalf. Contact us at 361-201-0819 for a free case evaluation, or send us a message through our secure and confidential online form.
How Can We Help in A Car Accident?
At The Patel Firm, our experienced legal team is dedicated to providing comprehensive support to our clients who have suffered personal injuries. We understand the physical, emotional, and financial toll that can arise from such incidents, and we are committed to bringing justice to our clients’ causes.
Legal Expertise
Our team of skilled car accident attorneys has a deep understanding of the complexities of motor vehicle-related laws. We leverage our decades’ worth of experience to guide our clients through the entire process, ensuring that their rights are protected and their concerns are properly addressed.
Case Assessment and Strategy
We conduct thorough case assessments to understand the unique circumstances of each case. By developing a customized legal strategy for each client, we strive to achieve the most favorable outcomes, whether through negotiation or litigation.
Communication and Support
We prioritize clear and open communication with our clients, keeping them informed at every stage of their case. Our team provides compassionate support, offering empathy and reassurance throughout the legal proceedings.
Maximum Compensation
We have successfully resolved countless matters and recovered millions of dollars for our clients. Our goal is to secure maximum compensation to cover your medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other damages.
No Risk Guarantee
Our fee structure is simple: if you don’t get paid, we don’t get paid. We never charge a fee unless we win or settle your matter. We also never charge during our initial consultation. It’s always free to see if you have a case.
About Car Accidents in Amarillo
Thousands of Texas drivers and passengers are seriously injured—or worse, killed—in crashes every year, according to the Texas Department of Transportation.
Amarillo, located in the heart of the Texas Panhandle, is a bustling hub of activity with a growing population and a thriving economy. However, this growth has also led to an increased risk of car accidents on its roads and highways.
One of the primary reasons for the high number of car accidents in Amarillo is the city’s location at the crossroads of several major highways. Interstate 40, which runs east to west through the city, is a heavily trafficked route for both local commuters and long-distance travelers. Additionally, U.S. Highway 287 and State Highway 136 intersect with I-40, creating a complex network of roads that can be challenging to navigate, especially for those unfamiliar with the area.
Another factor contributing to the high risk of car accidents in Amarillo is the city’s unpredictable weather conditions. The Texas Panhandle is known for its sudden changes in weather, with strong winds, heavy rain, and even snow and ice in the winter months. These conditions can make driving treacherous, particularly on high-speed highways like I-40.
Most Dangerous Roads in Amarillo
The Amarillo Police Department released a list of the most dangerous roads and intersections in the city, including:
- The S. Coulter Street and Hillside Road intersection
- Grand Street and S. Washington Street crossings at I-40
- I-40 and Paramount Boulevard
- 3rd Avenue and Fillmore Street (U.S. 87)
- Hillside Road and Soncy Road
What Should I Do After A Car Accident?
We understand the confusion and stress that can follow a car collision. Here are the crucial steps that you must take after a road incident:
Safety first: Ensure that you and your passengers are safe. If possible, move your vehicle to a secure location, such as the shoulder of the road or a nearby parking lot.
Call 911: If anyone is injured or there is significant property damage, call 911 immediately. The police will create an accident report, which can be valuable for your insurance claim and any legal proceedings.
Document the scene: Take photos of the damage to all vehicles involved, as well as any injuries you or your passengers have sustained. You can exchange information (name, address, registration, liability insurer and driver’s license) with the other party and complete a Driver’s Crash Report (CR2).
Seek medical attention: Even if you don’t feel injured, it’s essential to get a medical evaluation. Some injuries, such as whiplash, may not be immediately apparent. Proper documentation of your injuries is crucial for any potential insurance claims or legal action.
Notify your insurance company: Contact your insurance provider to report the accident as soon as possible. Be honest and accurate, but avoid admitting liability.
Be cautious when communicating: Limit your communication with the other driver(s) and their insurance company. Do not apologize or admit fault, as this can be used against you later.
Contact an attorney: If you’ve been injured or are facing significant property damage, consult with a personal injury attorney. They can help protect your rights, deal with insurance companies, and ensure that you receive fair compensation for your losses.
Where Do Car Accidents Happen?
In our long years of practice in handling car accidents, we have seen that they commonly occur in the following high-risk areas:
Intersections: Intersections are notorious hotspots for car accidents. Factors such as running red lights, failing to yield the right of way, and misjudging the speed of oncoming traffic can all contribute to intersection accidents.
Highway on-ramps and off-ramps: Merging onto or exiting a highway can be a tricky maneuver, especially during peak traffic hours. Drivers must quickly adjust their speed and navigate through fast-moving traffic, which can lead to accidents if they fail to properly gauge the flow of traffic or if other drivers are not paying attention.
Parking lots: While parking lot accidents tend to occur at lower speeds, they can still result in significant damage and injuries. Tight spaces, limited visibility, and distracted drivers all contribute to the risk of collisions in parking lots. Backing out of parking spaces, failing to yield to pedestrians, and not following directional signs are common causes of parking lot accidents.
Rural roads: Despite the lower traffic volumes on rural roads, accidents in these areas can be particularly severe. Narrow lanes, limited shoulder space, and higher speed limits can make it difficult for drivers to avoid collisions. Additionally, rural roads may have hidden hazards such as wildlife crossings, sharp curves, and limited lighting, which can catch drivers off guard.
Construction zones: Road construction is a necessary evil, but it also creates unique challenges for drivers. Narrowed lanes, shifted traffic patterns, and the presence of workers and equipment are significant contributing factors to accidents.
Residential streets: While we often think of residential streets as safe havens, incidents can still happen close to home. Children playing, parked cars, and limited visibility due to trees or other obstructions can all contribute to collisions in residential areas. Distracted driving, speeding, and failing to watch for pedestrians are common factors in residential street accidents.
Common Causes Of Car Accidents
The common causes of car accidents are:
Distracted driving: Texting, talking on the phone, adjusting the radio, or even conversing with passengers can take a driver’s attention away from the road, increasing the risk of a collision.
Speeding: Speeding reduces a driver’s reaction time, makes it harder to navigate curves or corners, and increases the severity of any resulting accidents.
Impaired driving: Whether it’s alcohol, drugs, or even certain prescription medications, impaired driving is a leading cause of car accidents. When a driver’s judgment and reflexes are compromised, they may struggle to maintain control of their vehicle, react to changing traffic conditions, or make split-second decisions to avoid a collision.
Reckless driving: Some drivers take unnecessary risks behind the wheel, such as weaving in and out of traffic, tailgating, or ignoring traffic signals. These reckless behaviors not only endanger the driver but also put other motorists and pedestrians at risk.
Poor weather conditions: Rain, snow, ice, and fog can all reduce visibility and make roads slippery, increasing the likelihood of accidents. Drivers who fail to adjust their speed and driving habits to account for these conditions are more likely to be involved in a collision.
Mechanical failures: Faulty brakes, blown tires, or malfunctioning steering systems can all make it difficult for a driver to maintain control of their vehicle, potentially leading to a crash.
Types of Damages and Compensation From A Car Accident Lawsuit
When it comes to personal injury cases in Amarillo, two crucial elements form the foundation of every claim: liability and damages. Liability refers to the legal responsibility of the person or party who caused the injury, holding them accountable for the resulting consequences.
Damages, on the other hand, serve as the basis for the monetary compensation that the injured party seeks to remedy the harm they have suffered.
While no financial amount can truly undo the pain and suffering caused by a car accident, it is the closest possible means of addressing the injury-related expenses and losses incurred by the victim.
Here are the types of compensation that you can recover:
Punitive Damages
When a car accident is caused by someone acting with deliberate disregard for the victim’s safety, the court may award punitive damages. Also known as exemplary damages, these are typically reserved for high-dollar cases involving severe injuries such as traumatic brain damage or paralysis.
Punitive damages are not part of personal injury settlements; instead, courts use them to deter the at-fault party and others from engaging in similar behavior in the future.
Compensatory Damages
Compensatory damages, which aim to reimburse the injured party for their losses, come in two forms: special (economic) and general (non-economic).
Special damages have a pre-determined value and include:
- Medical Expenses
- Lost Wages and Income
- Out-of-Pocket Expenses
- Property Damage
General damages, while more challenging to quantify, are the natural consequences of the at-fault party’s negligence. These may include:
- Pain and Suffering
- Mental Anguish
- Disfigurement or Scarring
- Physical Impairment or Disability
- Loss of Enjoyment of Life
- Loss of Consortium
By understanding the types of damages available and the evidence required to prove them, car accident victims can work with experienced personal injury attorneys to secure the compensation they deserve.
Role of a Specialized Attorney
From dealing with physical injuries and emotional trauma to navigating the complex world of insurance claims and legal proceedings, it’s easy to feel like you’re in over your head.
That’s where a specialized car accident attorney comes in. At The Patel Firm, we provide comprehensive legal services, which start at:
Investigating the accident: Your attorney will thoroughly examine the circumstances surrounding your car accident. They’ll gather evidence, interview witnesses, and consult with experts to build a strong case on your behalf. This process may involve obtaining police reports, medical records, and other relevant documentation to support your claim.
Assessing your damages: A car accident can result in a wide range of damages, from medical expenses and lost wages to pain and suffering and emotional distress. Your attorney will work with you to assess the full extent of your damages and determine the appropriate amount of compensation to seek.
Negotiating with insurance companies: Insurance companies are in the business of making money, and they may try to minimize the amount they pay out on claims. Your car accident attorney will handle all communication with the insurance companies involved and negotiate on your behalf to ensure that you receive a fair settlement.
Representing you in court: If a fair settlement cannot be reached through negotiation, your attorney will be prepared to take your case to court. They’ll argue your case in front of a judge and jury, presenting evidence and advocating for your rights every step of the way.
Providing support and guidance: Beyond the legal aspects of your case, your car accident attorney will also provide much-needed support and guidance throughout the process. They’ll answer your questions, keep you informed about the status of your case, and offer advice on how to move forward after the accident.
Texas Car Accident Laws
If you have sustained an injury in Texas, it’s crucial to understand the state’s specific laws to ensure you receive proper compensation.
Statute of Limitations
Texas adheres to a Statute of Limitations, mandating the filing of a car accident case within two (2) years of the initial injury. If you fail to bring a claim within this timeframe, it can result in the forfeiture of your right to pursue it.
Notably, the two-year limit is not the sole consideration. Different rules apply if a state or local government is implicated in the injury.
Modified Comparative Negligence
Failing to exercise the degree of care expected of someone in order to minimize the risk of harm to another is considered “negligence,” the legal basis for many accident cases.
Texas employs the modified comparative negligence rule to determine liabilities, which allocates damages based on each party’s degree of fault. This means that if you are found partially at fault for the injury, then your damages can be reduced.
However, if you’re the plaintiff in a lawsuit (the person wronged or injured), you may not recover damages if your percentage of fault is found to be greater than 50%.
Call An Amarillo-Based Car Accident Lawyer Now
Contact an Amarillo car accident law firm to expertly handle your case. The Patel Firm focuses on providing legal guidance and utmost care during unthinkable tragedies, empowering clients with efficient legal solutions.
We understand that negotiating with insurance companies, understanding legal complexities, and investing significant time and resources all contribute to the overwhelming nature of managing a car accident case – but we’re here to help.
With our vast resources and a determined team of skilled attorneys, we’ll be able to strongly advocate for your rights. We believe in safeguarding the community from harm and dedicate our practice to helping injured survivors seek justice.
Contact us at 361-201-0819 for a free case evaluation, or send us a message through our secure and confidential online form. We are always ready to take your call.
