1. One of the first recommendations attorneys suggest to their clients who were involved in a traffic accident is to seek medical attention right away if you haven’t done so already. Sometimes, the extent of the injuries may not be apparent, some may not manifest themselves in the moment but it may show up in the next coming weeks, months, or even years after a collision. Medical professionals will be able to assess injuries and damages that could otherwise go undetected and worsen over time.
2. Names and phone numbers of any witnesses
3. Photos of scene, and your initial injuries if they are visible
4. Document what happened, exactly how you remember it. Collect police reports, records and statements
5. Talk to an experienced attorney to determine if your claim is worth pursuing and what steps can be taken to proceed.

1. Texas is an at-fault state, meaning the person who caused the accident is responsible for your damages. If you were injured due to someone else’s negligence you may be able to recover from them your damages. Only a thorough investigation can reveal whether you have a valid personal injury claim and a good case. Contact us today for a FREE Case Evaluation.
2. Because our attorneys value transparent relationships with our clients, we only take cases that we think we can win.

1. Once your personal injury claim reaches a favorable conclusion, the process of receiving your settlement check can begin.
2. Sign Release – Signing the release form indicates that you will pursue no more legal action against the defendant(s) in regard to the claim. In exchange for the settlement money, you are letting the claim go.
3. Settlements are typically paid out by the at-fault party’s insurance company. Once the insurer receives a signed release form, it will start processing the check. Legally, insurance companies are obligated to immediately write the check, payable to both you and your attorney. However, internal issues can slow things down.
4. The settlement check is sent to your attorney’s office. Funds are put into an escrow/trust account, to make sure the insurance company can cover the settlement amount. Once the check clears, contingency fees, legal expenses, and pre- or post-settlement funds owed, as agreed upon, are deducted, and debts related to your claim are paid (if not, creditors holding the liens can sue). Your lawyer will also write another check to distribute the remainder to you.
5. Paying Off Liens – If there are outstanding liens, your lawyer will have to hold the check for longer. Pending liens can be for unpaid medical bills or related to charges against you. If you must reimburse your insurance company or health care provider, owe child support, or fired another attorney but still owe payment for their legal services, these must be paid off or you may face stiff legal penalties.
6. Deduction of Legal Fees & Costs – In addition to the liens mentioned above, your attorney will deduct all legal fees, out-of-pocket expenses, and other related costs from the settlement (including their percentage of the settlement as agreed upon when they took your case), then release the remaining balance to you in the form of a check from the attorney’s office. Legal fees and costs deducted from your settlement can include costs related to expert witnesses, medical records, depositions, obtaining copies of evidence, court reporting costs, filing fees, and similar actions. You should feel free to ask for an itemized statement of all legal fees and costs related to your claim.

While the average amount of time it takes to receive a settlement check in a personal injury case is between three to six weeks, there are several steps to the process where delays may occur. There can be issues with signing the release form and related paperwork, delays on the part of the defendant’s insurance company, and the necessary time required for the check to clear. In addition, there may be time involved with negotiating liens and paying them off.

1. It’s not necessary, because we usually handle all of that for you. However, if you have done so already then great! 
2. LANDER LAW will handle all paperwork and communication with the insurance company and negotiate for the highest compensation available for your injuries.

1. Providing documentation: It is time to provide us with any relevant documentation related to your accident, such as medical records, police reports, witness information, and insurance information. Providing these documents promptly can help us to build a strong case on your behalf.
2. Medical treatment: If you have not already done so, it’s important to seek medical treatment for your injuries. Your medical records and bills will be an essential part of your case, so make sure to keep track of all medical expenses and appointments.
3. Investigation: Our team will conduct an investigation to gather evidence to support your claim. This may involve interviewing witnesses, reviewing accident reports, and collecting any other relevant evidence.
4. Negotiations: Once we have gathered evidence and assessed the damages you have suffered, we may enter into negotiations with the other party’s insurance company to reach a settlement. We will advise you on whether a settlement offer is fair and reasonable, or if it would be better to take your case to trial.
5. Trial: If a settlement cannot be reached, we will prepare your case for trial and represent you in court.
6. Throughout the process, the staff will keep you informed about the progress of your case and any important developments. It’s important to maintain open communication with our office and to provide us with any information or updates related to your case. By working closely with our team, you can help to ensure the best possible outcome for your personal injury claim.

1. Your medical expenses will be covered by the 3rd party insurance company once liability is accepted.
2. The other party and its insurance company do not pay your medical bills and expenses while the claim is pending. Your medical bills are included in the settlement. You do not receive any money for your claim until the case is settled. The medical expenses associated with your personal injury claim are one kind of loss (or legal damage) that can be addressed in your legal claim. These medical costs can be extensive, and they may not end with your current medical needs. Serious injuries can lead to ongoing healthcare needs and to ongoing healthcare expenses. Your attorney may be able to negotiate a reduction to your medical liens, so you end up with more money in your pocket.

1. As soon as the at-fault driver admits to not having car insurance, involve the police, even if it was a minor crash. Driving without insurance is a crime in Texas that is punishable with a citation, fines and fees of up to $1,100, and the revocation of the driver’s license.
2. Even if the other driver did not have insurance, you can still recover compensation for your injuries under your own uninsured/underinsured (UM/UIM) policy.
3. An experienced attorney can review your insurance policy language and see what type and kinds of coverage you had, including UM/UIM insurance, and PIP Insurance.
4. Texas law prohibits insurance companies from raising premiums on policyholders who file UM/UIM insurance claims. If you have UM/UIM coverage, you should absolutely use it if you need it. 

1. You should start treatment right away!
2. After visiting an emergency room or seeing a doctor for an initial evaluation, you may need further treatment.  If you have health insurance, you and your lawyer will decide whether using your health insurance is best for your case.  If you choose not to use your health insurance, then your lawyer should make arrangements for your medical treatment under a letter of protection.
3. Your medical treatment could last a week, month, or even a year or more depending on the seriousness of your injuries.  During this time, your lawyer will continue to build your case file.  Your attorney should also check your treatment status in order to assess your progress or even make arrangements for further treatment as needed.  The goal is that you get the proper medical treatment so that you can fully recover from your injuries.
4. Once your doctor decides that you have reached “Maximum Medical Improvement,” then you will be released from active treatment.  If and when your doctor decides to release you is a decision between you and your doctor.

1. The driver of the other vehicle, if they caused the crash, and that driver’s insurance company;
2. The driver of the vehicle in which you were a passenger, if they caused the crash, and that driver’s insurance company;
3. Both drivers and their insurance companies if they share fault in causing the crash; and/or
4. Your own uninsured or underinsured motorist coverage if the at-fault driver does not have adequate liability insurance.

1. Protects You from the Insurance Companies. 
2. Understands Legal Requirements to Prove Liability. 
3. Correctly Values Your Injury Claim. 
4. Handles Settlement Negotiations and Lawsuits. We are skilled negotiators who are prepared to fight for maximum compensation for your claim.

The quickest and most efficient way to contact us is by text. If we are not able to assist you or you feel you may need to speak with a staff member directly, making an appointment saves you time, gets you prompt attention and allows our staff to better serve you.