If you’ve been injured in a car accident in San Antonio, securing the right legal representation is crucial. A car accident lawyer in San Antonio TX can be your strongest advocate, navigating the complexities of insurance claims and legal procedures while you focus on recovery. At Law Offices of Maloney & Campolo, we are dedicated to assisting individuals like you who have suffered injuries due to the negligence of others on the road. We understand the challenges you face, and we are here to provide expert legal guidance and support.
Why Choose Our San Antonio Car Accident Attorneys?
Selecting the right legal team is a pivotal decision after a car accident. Here’s why the Law Offices of Maloney & Campolo stand out as your premier choice for a car accident lawyer in San Antonio TX:
- Unmatched Expertise and Experience: Our attorneys possess extensive knowledge of Texas traffic laws and a proven track record of successfully handling car accident cases. We are adept at dealing with insurance companies and other parties involved, ensuring your rights are protected every step of the way.
- No Upfront Costs – We Work on a Contingency Fee Basis: Financial strain is often a concern after an accident. We operate on a contingency fee basis, meaning you pay nothing out of pocket. Our fees are only collected if we successfully recover compensation for you. This aligns our interests with yours – your recovery is our priority.
- Client-Centered Approach: At our firm, you are not just a case number. We prioritize our clients’ well-being above all else. We take on the legal burden, allowing you to concentrate on your health and rehabilitation. We are committed to providing personalized attention and support throughout your legal journey.
- Free, No-Obligation Case Consultations: We offer free initial consultations to all car accident victims in San Antonio and across Texas. This allows you to discuss your situation with an experienced attorney, understand your legal options, and receive preliminary advice without any financial commitment. Call us today at (210) 922-2200 for your free consultation!
If you or a loved one has been involved in a car accident, don’t hesitate to contact our experienced lawyers at (210) 922-2200 for a free, no-obligation consultation. Let us help you understand your rights and the best path forward.
Proven Track Record of Success
$6,000,000+ Car Accident Settlement
$3,000,000 Car Accident Settlement involving a Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI)
Explore more of our successful case results.
How a San Antonio Car Accident Lawyer at Maloney & Campolo Can Help
Navigating the aftermath of a car accident can be overwhelming. A car accident lawyer in San Antonio TX from the Law Offices of Maloney & Campolo acts as your dedicated advocate, handling all the intricate details of your claim so you can focus on healing and family. Our comprehensive services include:
- Filing and Managing Insurance Paperwork: We handle all interactions with insurance companies, ensuring all necessary documentation is accurately completed and submitted promptly.
- Evidence Gathering and Investigation: We meticulously gather evidence, including police reports, witness statements, and accident scene analysis, to build a strong and compelling case on your behalf.
- Negotiation with Insurance Adjusters: We are skilled negotiators who will aggressively advocate for your rights and interests, working to secure a fair and just settlement that fully covers your damages.
- Medical Record Procurement: We obtain and manage your medical records, ensuring a clear understanding of the extent of your injuries and the necessary medical treatments.
- Protecting Your Best Interests: Throughout the entire process, we prioritize your well-being and best interests, offering personalized legal advice and support tailored to your specific situation.
“I did not know where to begin when I was injured in a car accident… His paralegal team and anyone involved with my case were personable, communicative, thorough, professional, and above all- treated me like a human being and not a dollar amount.”
Melissa Z. Via Google
★ ★ ★ ★ ★
Meet Your Experienced San Antonio Car Accident Attorney
Best San Antonio Accident Attorney
Paul Campolo is a highly respected car accident lawyer in San Antonio TX, renowned for his unwavering dedication to his clients. With an impressive career spanning 40 years, Paul has successfully recovered millions of dollars in settlements and jury verdicts for car accident victims. His extensive experience and commitment make him a formidable advocate in your corner.
Key Topics for Car Accident Victims
To better assist you, we’ve compiled information on crucial topics relevant to car accident cases:
What to Do Immediately After a Car Accident
Understanding Compensation and Damages
Determining Fault and Liability
Common Causes of Car Accidents in San Antonio
Typical Injuries Sustained in Car Accidents
Dealing Effectively with Insurance Companies
Understanding Legal Costs and Attorney Fees
Texas Statute of Limitations for Filing a Claim
Additional Resources for Car Accident Victims
What to Do Right After a Car Accident in San Antonio
In our years of representing car accident victims in San Antonio, we’ve observed that the actions taken immediately following a crash significantly impact the outcome of a potential claim. Avoiding common mistakes is crucial to protect your rights and strengthen your case. Here’s a step-by-step guide on what to do:
- Prioritize Safety and Protect Yourself: Your health and safety are paramount. Immediately assess yourself and passengers for injuries. If necessary, move to a safe location away from traffic. Call emergency services if there are injuries or significant property damage.
- Seek Immediate Medical Attention: Even if you feel initially unharmed, it’s vital to seek medical evaluation as soon as possible. Some injuries, like whiplash or internal injuries, may not be immediately apparent. Prompt medical attention not only safeguards your health but also creates a crucial record of your injuries for your claim.
- Report the Accident to Law Enforcement: In Texas, you are legally required to report a car accident to the police if there are injuries, fatalities, or property damage exceeding $1,000. When the police arrive, provide your account of the events honestly and factually, but avoid admitting fault. The police report can be a valuable piece of evidence in your claim.
- Exchange Information with the Other Driver: Collect essential information from the other driver, including their name, contact information, driver’s license number, insurance details, and license plate number. Avoid discussing fault or the details of the accident beyond what is necessary for information exchange.
- Document the Scene: If it is safe to do so, use your phone to take photos and videos of the accident scene. Capture images of vehicle damage, road conditions, traffic signs, and any visible injuries. This visual documentation can be extremely helpful in reconstructing the accident.
- Contact a San Antonio Car Accident Lawyer: Engaging a car accident lawyer in San Antonio TX as soon as possible is one of the most important steps you can take. An attorney from the Law Offices of Maloney & Campolo can guide you through the complexities of the claims process, ensure your rights are protected, and help you avoid common pitfalls that could jeopardize your claim. We can help you understand the legal deadlines, such as the two-year statute of limitations for filing a claim in Texas.
Staying calm and informed is essential after a car accident. Remember, a car accident lawyer in San Antonio TX is your advocate. Unlike other parties involved, such as the insurance company or even the police, your lawyer is solely dedicated to representing your best interests. Contact us today to schedule a free case review and learn more about how we can assist you with your claim in Bexar County.
Understanding the Potential Value of Your Car Accident Case
A primary objective of our car accident lawyers in San Antonio TX is to help clients regain normalcy in their lives after an accident. While we understand that we cannot undo the trauma of serious injuries, we are committed to fighting for the financial compensation you need to improve your quality of life. Accident victims may be entitled to recover various types of damages, including:
- Vehicle Repair or Replacement Costs: Compensation for the expenses to repair your damaged vehicle or the fair market value to replace it if it is totaled.
- Medical Expenses (Past and Future): Coverage for all accident-related medical bills, including emergency room visits, surgeries, hospital stays, medications, physical therapy, rehabilitation, and ongoing medical care you may require in the future. This can also include ambulance fees.
- Lost Income and Wages: Reimbursement for lost earnings due to time missed from work for medical treatment, recovery, and any diminished earning capacity resulting from your injuries.
- Legal Fees and Court Costs: Recovery of expenses associated with pursuing your legal claim.
- Pain and Suffering: Compensation for the physical pain, emotional distress, mental anguish, and psychological trauma you have endured and may continue to experience as a result of the accident.
- Loss of Consortium: In cases of severe injury or wrongful death, compensation for the impact on family relationships, including loss of companionship, support, and intimacy.
- Punitive Damages: In cases where the at-fault party’s conduct was egregious, malicious, or grossly negligent, punitive damages may be awarded to punish the wrongdoer and deter similar behavior in the future.
The total value of your car accident claim is influenced by numerous factors, including the severity of your injuries, the extent of your financial losses, the clarity of fault, and the skill of your car accident lawyer in San Antonio TX. Engaging an experienced attorney from our law firm significantly increases your chances of securing the maximum possible settlement.
Determining Liability in a San Antonio Car Accident
Texas operates under a “fault” or “tort” system for car accidents. This means that in most cases, the driver who is proven to be at fault for causing the accident is legally responsible for the resulting damages. Determining fault is a critical aspect of any car accident claim, but it is not always straightforward. If the other driver disputes fault, a skilled car accident lawyer in San Antonio TX from our firm can conduct a thorough investigation to establish liability.
It’s important to understand that liability isn’t always limited to just one driver. In some accidents, multiple parties may share fault. Furthermore, even in single-vehicle accidents, other parties, such as a roadway maintenance crew responsible for hazardous road conditions or a vehicle manufacturer responsible for a defective vehicle part, could be liable. Our personal injury attorneys are experienced in identifying all potentially liable parties who contributed to your car accident.
Common Causes of Car Accidents in San Antonio
Our law firm has extensive experience representing victims of various types of car accidents throughout Texas. We have developed a deep understanding of the common factors contributing to serious collisions in San Antonio. A car accident lawyer in San Antonio TX from our firm can work with investigators to determine the precise cause of your accident and identify all responsible parties. Common causes we see include:
-
Driver Error: The vast majority of car accidents are caused by driver negligence or errors. This includes:
- Distracted Driving: Engaging in activities that divert attention from driving, such as texting, using cell phones, eating, or adjusting the radio.
- Speeding: Exceeding posted speed limits or driving too fast for conditions.
- Drunk Driving: Operating a vehicle under the influence of alcohol or drugs. Drunk driving accidents are a significant cause of serious injuries and fatalities.
- Reckless Driving: Aggressive driving behaviors, such as weaving in and out of traffic, running red lights, and tailgating.
- Violation of Traffic Laws: Disregarding traffic signals, signs, and other regulations.
- Road Rage: Aggressive or violent behavior by drivers.
-
Company Negligence: In accidents involving commercial vehicles, such as trucks, buses, or delivery vehicles, the company employing the driver may be liable due to:
- Negligent Hiring and Training: Failing to properly screen and train drivers.
- Unrealistic Schedules and Pressure to Speed: Pressuring drivers to meet tight deadlines, leading to fatigue and risky driving behavior.
- Inadequate Vehicle Maintenance: Failing to properly maintain vehicles, leading to mechanical failures.
A trucking company, delivery service, bus company, taxi company, or other commercial entity could be held directly or vicariously liable for accidents caused by their negligence or the negligence of their drivers.
-
Dangerous Road Conditions: The City of San Antonio has a responsibility to maintain safe roadways. Hazardous road conditions that contribute to accidents include:
- Potholes and Uneven Pavement: Road defects that can cause loss of control.
- Inadequate Signage and Traffic Signals: Missing or malfunctioning traffic control devices.
- Poor Road Design: Dangerous intersections or road layouts.
- Lack of Road Maintenance: Failure to repair hazards in a timely manner.
If a dangerous road condition was a contributing factor in your accident, you may have a claim against the city or a private property owner if they were aware of the hazard and failed to address it.
-
Vehicle Malfunctions: Defects in vehicle components can lead to accidents. Common vehicle malfunctions include:
- Brake Failure: Faulty brakes that fail to operate properly.
- Tire Blowouts: Sudden tire failures.
- Defective Airbags or Seatbelts: Safety systems that malfunction in a crash.
- Steering or Suspension System Failures: Mechanical issues that cause loss of control.
- Autonomous Vehicle Technology Errors: Malfunctions in self-driving vehicle systems.
If a vehicle defect caused or contributed to your accident, you may have a product liability claim against the vehicle manufacturer or parts supplier.
When you choose a car accident lawyer in San Antonio TX from the Law Offices of Maloney & Campolo, we will conduct a thorough investigation to determine the cause of your car accident. This may involve:
- Accident Scene Investigation: Visiting and analyzing the accident location.
- Reviewing Police Reports: Obtaining and analyzing official accident reports.
- Analyzing Vehicle Damage: Examining vehicle damage to understand the collision dynamics.
- Witness Interviews: Speaking with eyewitnesses to gather their accounts of the accident.
- Expert Consultation: Working with accident reconstruction experts to recreate the accident and determine causation.
- Reviewing Photographs and Videos: Analyzing any available visual evidence of the crash.
Common Injuries from Car Accidents
Car accidents can result in a wide range of injuries, from minor to catastrophic. A serious injury can have long-lasting effects, impacting your ability to work and your overall quality of life. Common injuries suffered by car accident victims include:
- Whiplash and Neck Injuries: Strains and sprains to the neck muscles and ligaments.
- Cuts, Lacerations, and Abrasions: Injuries ranging from minor scrapes to deep wounds.
- Burns: Thermal burns, chemical burns, or friction burns. Severe burns can require extensive and ongoing medical treatment.
- Scarring and Disfigurement: Permanent skin damage and changes in appearance.
- Amputations: Loss of limbs due to trauma.
- Head Injuries and Traumatic Brain Injuries (TBIs): Injuries to the brain ranging from concussions to severe TBIs. Traumatic brain injuries can have devastating long-term cognitive and physical effects.
- Back and Spinal Cord Injuries: Injuries to the vertebrae, discs, and spinal cord, potentially leading to paralysis.
- Fractures and Broken Bones: Breaks in any bones, including ribs, arms, legs, and facial bones.
- Internal Injuries and Bleeding: Damage to internal organs and blood vessels.
- Psychological Trauma: Emotional distress, anxiety, depression, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).
- Wrongful Death: Fatal injuries resulting in the death of a loved one. Wrongful death claims seek compensation for the family members of the deceased.
If you have suffered a spinal cord injury, it is crucial to contact a specialized San Antonio spinal cord injury lawyer. These injuries often result in significant medical expenses and long-term care needs. At our firm, we are dedicated to advocating for victims with life-altering injuries from preventable car accidents. Accidents involving pedestrians can be particularly severe and frequently result in fatalities. We utilize proven legal strategies and assertive negotiation tactics to pursue fair compensation for your injuries or the wrongful death of a loved one.
Regardless of the type or severity of your car accident injuries, contact us for experienced legal counsel. Our car accident attorneys in San Antonio TX are ready to help you recover.
car accident attorney in San Antonio
Should You Talk to the Insurance Adjuster After a Car Accident?
Texas is a fault-based insurance state. This means that the insurance company of the at-fault driver is responsible for covering your damages. While you will likely need to interact with insurance companies, it is important to understand that insurance adjusters are not on your side. Insurance companies prioritize their own financial interests and will attempt to minimize payouts.
The adjuster assigned to your case may contact you very soon after the accident, possibly even on the same day. They may ask for a recorded statement about the accident. It is generally advisable to avoid giving a recorded statement to the insurance adjuster without first consulting with a car accident lawyer in San Antonio TX. Anything you say in a recorded statement can be used against you to reduce or deny your claim.
To protect your rights and maximize your potential compensation, it is recommended to:
- Avoid Giving a Recorded Statement: Politely decline to provide a recorded statement to the insurance adjuster until you have spoken with an attorney.
- Be Cautious in Your Communications: Limit your communication with the adjuster to providing basic information, such as your contact details and the date and location of the accident. Avoid discussing fault, the details of the accident, or your injuries.
- Refer Adjusters to Your Attorney: Once you have hired a car accident lawyer in San Antonio TX, direct all insurance adjuster communications to your attorney. We will handle all interactions with the insurance companies on your behalf, protecting you from making statements that could harm your claim.
Our San Antonio car accident lawyers will prevent you from making mistakes, such as giving a recorded statement or admitting fault, that could undermine your ability to secure fair compensation. Contact us online or call (210) 922-2200 for guidance on how to proceed with your insurance claim.
Understanding Car Accident Lawyer Fees
The Law Offices of Maloney & Campolo understand the financial challenges that car accident victims face. We offer our legal services on a contingency fee basis. This means:
- No Upfront Costs: You pay no attorney fees upfront or out of pocket.
- Fees Contingent on Recovery: Our attorney fees are a percentage of the final settlement or verdict amount we recover for you. If we do not recover compensation, you do not owe us attorney fees.
- Typical Fee Structure: Our standard contingency fee is typically one-third (33%) of the recovered compensation. However, the specific fee arrangement may vary depending on the complexity of your case.
This contingency fee arrangement makes quality legal representation accessible to everyone, regardless of their financial situation. We are committed to ensuring that you can afford experienced legal help when you need it most. Call us to discuss your case and receive detailed information about our fees.
Texas Statute of Limitations for Car Accident Claims
In Texas, there is a legal time limit, known as the statute of limitations, for filing a car accident lawsuit. According to the Texas Civil Practice and Remedies Code section 16.003, you generally have two years from the date of the accident to file a personal injury or property damage lawsuit.
It is crucial to be aware of this deadline because:
- Missing the Deadline Bars Your Claim: If you fail to file a lawsuit within the two-year statute of limitations, you typically lose your right to pursue legal action and recover compensation for your damages.
- Exceptions are Limited: While there are rare exceptions to the statute of limitations, it is generally best to act promptly to protect your legal rights.
- Discovery of Injuries: In cases where injuries are not immediately apparent and are discovered later, the statute of limitations may begin to run from the date of injury discovery, rather than the date of the accident.
- Wrongful Death Claims: In wrongful death cases, the statute of limitations begins to run from the date of the deceased’s death, not the date of the accident.
To avoid missing critical deadlines and jeopardizing your claim, it is essential to contact a car accident lawyer in San Antonio TX as soon as possible after an accident.
Our Lawyers Have Recovered Over $150 Million for Clients
If you or a family member has been injured in a car accident, reach out to our experienced car accident attorneys in San Antonio TX. A dedicated trial lawyer from the Law Offices of Maloney & Campolo is ready to provide the skilled legal representation and compassionate support you deserve during this challenging time.
We invite you to complete our online contact form or call our office directly at (210) 922-2200 to schedule a free, no-obligation consultation. We represent car accident victims throughout Bexar County and Texas on a contingency fee basis – you don’t pay unless we win. Contact us online today to learn how we can help you.
Resources for Car Accident Victims in Texas
Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT)
Texas Department of Insurance
City of San Antonio – Traffic and Parking Services
Bexar County Sheriff’s Office
