It depends. The following are just some of the factors that determine the value of your claim:

• Who was responsible for the incident?
• What is the extent of your injuries?
• What are the policy limits of the at-fault driver?
• Do you carry Underinsured/Uninsured Motorist Coverage?
• How soon after the incident did you begin treatment?
• How many previous accidents have you been involved in?
• Your age, race and gender – yes, believe it or not, insurance companies factor this into their offers.

Every claim has a different value. Car accident claims are like snowflakes – no two are exactly alike. At the AK Law Firm, we know what makes your case stronger and potentially adds value. While no lawyer can tell you the exact value (and anyone who tries is lying – run away!), we can tell you what you need to do to maximize your case value.

You have ten (10) days to file a police report after a car accident in Texas. However, you should do it as quickly as possible because facts are forgotten and stories change. Once the defendant goes home and talks to enough family members they may be convinced the crash was not their fault, even if they admitted fault to you at the scene. The best practice is to wait for the police to arrive at the scene. However, if you cannot, file a police report within a few days after the accident.

You have two (2) years from the date of the accident to get a lawsuit on file in Texas. This is called the “statute of limitations.” Once you have a lawsuit on file the statute of limitations is preserved.

But in reality, you cannot wait two years without doing anything. Every day that goes by without medical treatment the insurance company drops the value of your case. You have just a few days to get your case going in order to maximize your case value.

After a hit-and-run accident, follow these steps:

1. Gather Evidence (take pictures, look for witnesses and cameras, note any details about the defendant)
2. Call the police to the scene
3. Contact your insurance company
4. Hire an attorney to help you put all the information together and let you know if you have a case

The insurance company values your bodily injury claim directly in relation to: when you started treatment, how long you went, and what types of injuries you suffered. If you didn’t get medical treatment for 30 days after your car accident, your claim loses significant value.

The injuries you suffer in a car accident may seem small, but they can be permanent. Many clients don’t truly feel the full extent of the pain until days or weeks after the incident. Seek medical attention immediately even if your pain levels are low.

Even if you believe the accident was your fault, it’s still wise to speak with an attorney. Texas follows a modified comparative fault rule, meaning liability can be shared between drivers. You may not be 100% responsible.

An experienced car accident attorney can help protect you from: paying more than your fair share, giving statements that hurt your case, being blamed for injuries you didn't cause, and facing lawsuits without proper defense. A consultation can provide clarity and peace of mind.