McAllen, TX Car Accident Lawyers

Injured in a Car Accident? Our McAllen Attorneys Are Here to Help.

Free Consultation • Se Habla Español • No Fee Unless We Win

A car accident can leave you overwhelmed with injuries, medical bills, and insurance headaches. If you or a loved one has been hurt in a car crash in McAllen, Texas, you need an experienced ally to help you understand your rights and pursue the compensation you deserve. The Adley Law Firm is a Texas-based personal injury firm that proudly serves clients in McAllen and across Texas. Our compassionate McAllen car accident lawyers guide you through every step – from what to do right after an accident to filing an injury claim – all while providing bilingual support in English and Spanish. We offer free consultations, and you won’t pay a dime unless we win your case.

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What to Do After a Car Accident
Your Legal Rights & Next Steps
How Car Accident Claims Work
Getting a McAllen Crash Report
Types of Car Accidents
Common Car Accident Injuries
Why Choose The Adley Law Firm?
Contact Us for a Free Consultation

What to Do After a Car Accident in McAllen

In the chaotic moments after a car accident, it’s important to stay calm and take certain steps to protect your health and your legal rights. Here are the key things to do immediately after an accident:

Ensure Safety: Check yourself and others for injuries. If anyone is hurt, call 911 right away. If it’s safe, move your vehicle out of traffic to prevent further accidents.
Call the Police: Always report the accident to the police, even for minor crashes. In McAllen, calling 911 will bring local law enforcement and emergency medical responders (EMS) to the scene. The police will create an official accident report, which will be important for any insurance claim.
Exchange Information: Get the contact and insurance information of the other driver(s) involved. Also collect names and phone numbers of any witnesses. Avoid discussing fault at the scene – just stick to the facts when talking to the police and others.
Document the Scene: If you can, take photos or videos of the crash scene, vehicle damage, skid marks, and any visible injuries. This evidence can be valuable later when determining fault and damages.
Seek Medical Attention: Get medical care as soon as possible, even if you feel okay. Some injuries (like whiplash or internal injuries) might not show symptoms immediately. You can go to a local hospital such as South Texas Health System McAllen or Rio Grande Regional Hospital for a thorough evaluation. Prompt treatment not only protects your health but also creates medical records linking your injuries to the accident.
Notify Your Insurance: Inform your auto insurance company about the accident. Provide the basic facts of what happened. Do not give a recorded statement or sign anything from the other driver’s insurer without speaking to a lawyer first.
Consult a Car Accident Lawyer: Contact an experienced car accident attorney before negotiating with insurance adjusters. A lawyer can advise you of your rights, handle communications with insurers, and help you pursue full compensation for your losses.

Important: In McAllen, emergency services are handled by the local authorities. For emergencies, dial 911 to reach police and medical help immediately. For non-emergency situations, you can contact the McAllen Police Department (1601 N. Bicentennial Blvd, McAllen, TX 78501) at (956) 681-2000 and the McAllen Fire Department (201 N. 21st Street, McAllen, TX 78501) at (956) 681-2500.

Your Legal Rights & Next Steps After an Accident

After the initial shock of an accident, you may be wondering what your legal rights are and what to do next. In Texas, you have the right to seek compensation if another party’s negligence caused the crash. Here are some important points about your rights and options:

Right to Compensation: Texas is an at-fault state, meaning the driver who caused the accident is responsible for the damages. If you were not at fault, you can file a claim against the at-fault driver’s insurance to recover costs like medical bills, vehicle repairs, lost wages, pain and suffering, and more. You also have the right to sue the at-fault driver if their insurance doesn’t fully cover your losses.
Comparative Negligence: Even if you are partially at fault, you may still recover some compensation. Texas follows a modified comparative negligence rule (also known as the 51% rule). As long as you were not more than 50% responsible for the accident, you can recover damages, but your compensation will be reduced by your percentage of fault.
Don’t Rush into Settlements: Insurance companies might offer a quick settlement, but it may be far lower than what you truly need. You have the right to consult an attorney before accepting any offer. Once you settle, you generally waive your right to any further claims, so it’s crucial to know the full extent of your injuries and losses first.
Right to Legal Representation: You are entitled to have an attorney represent you in dealing with insurance companies or in court. A seasoned car accident lawyer can protect your rights, handle the legal paperwork, and negotiate for a fair settlement on your behalf. Remember, the insurance adjuster works for the insurance company – you may need someone working for you.
Statute of Limitations: In Texas, there is a time limit for filing a personal injury lawsuit. Generally, you have two years from the date of the accident to file a lawsuit for injury or property damage. If you miss this deadline, you could lose your right to pursue compensation through the courts. It’s best to speak with a lawyer well before this time period expires so you can take timely action.

Understanding your rights is the first step toward getting justice after a crash. The Adley Law Firm can explain how the law applies to your situation and what you can expect as you move forward with a claim.

How Car Accident Claims Work in Texas

Pursuing an injury claim after a car accident can be complex, especially when you’re trying to heal. Here’s a breakdown of how the process typically works in Texas:

Insurance Claim Filing: After an accident, you usually start by filing a claim with the at-fault driver’s insurance company. Texas requires all drivers to carry minimum liability insurance of 30/60/25 ($30,000 per person for injuries, $60,000 per accident for injuries, and $25,000 for property damage) as mandated by the Texas Department of Insurance (TDI). The at-fault driver’s liability insurance should cover your damages up to these policy limits (often policies have higher limits). If the at-fault driver was uninsured or fled the scene (hit-and-run), you may need to use your own Uninsured/Underinsured Motorist (UM/UIM) coverage or pursue other legal avenues.
Investigation and Evidence: Both your insurance company and the other driver’s insurer will investigate the accident. They’ll review the police report, photos, witness statements, and medical records. It’s crucial to provide clear evidence of the other driver’s negligence. An attorney can help gather important evidence – such as traffic camera footage or expert accident reconstruction – to build a strong case.
Medical Treatment and Documentation: It’s important to follow through with all recommended medical treatment. Keep records of doctor visits, treatments, medications, and notes on how your injuries affect your daily life. These medical records and bills are key evidence of your damages. Avoid skipping appointments, as gaps in treatment could be used by insurers to argue that your injuries are not serious or not caused by the accident.
Settlement Negotiations: In many cases, your lawyer will try to negotiate a settlement with the at-fault driver’s insurance company. They will present evidence of your losses (medical bills, lost wages, etc.) and demand fair compensation. Insurance companies often start with low offers. Your attorney’s job is to negotiate for an amount that fully covers your damages. This may involve multiple rounds of negotiation and providing additional documentation. With an experienced attorney handling talks, you stand a better chance of receiving a fair settlement.
Lawsuit and Litigation: If a fair settlement cannot be reached, you have the option to file a lawsuit against the at-fault party. Your attorney will file a petition in court to start the case. The litigation phase involves steps like discovery (exchange of evidence), depositions (interviews under oath), and possibly mediation. Many cases still settle during litigation, but if not, The Adley Law Firm is prepared to take your case to trial and present it before a jury to fight for the compensation you deserve.
Resolution: The case concludes either by settlement or a court verdict. If you reach a settlement or win at trial, you’ll receive compensation for your damages. This can include economic damages (medical expenses, property damage, lost income) and non-economic damages (pain and suffering, mental anguish). In certain egregious situations (for example, a drunk driving case), Texas courts might also award punitive damages to punish the wrongdoer, though these are less common and require clear evidence of gross negligence.

Throughout this process, having a knowledgeable lawyer is invaluable. Your attorney will keep track of deadlines, handle all communications, and fight for your best interests. Remember, insurance companies have professionals working to protect their funds – you should have a professional on your side working to protect your rights and maximize your recovery.

How to Get a McAllen, TX Crash Report

The police accident report is a critical document for your car accident claim. In McAllen, the police report is officially called the Texas Peace Officer’s Crash Report (Form CR-3). This report contains important details about the accident, such as the parties involved, vehicles, insurance information, witness statements, and the officer’s initial assessment of fault. Here’s how you can obtain a copy of your crash report:

Online through TxDOT: The City of McAllen participates in the Texas Crash Records Information System (C.R.I.S.). After an accident, McAllen police upload crash reports to this statewide system. You can request and purchase a copy of your accident report online via the Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT) Crash Report Online Purchase System. You’ll need to provide some details (such as the date of the accident, the names of those involved, or the report number if you have it). A small fee (around $6 for a regular copy or $8 for a certified copy) is required.
By Mail or In Person: You can also request the crash report directly from the McAllen Police Department. You’ll need to fill out the McAllen PD’s Accident Report Request Form and submit it with the required fee. Mail the form to the McAllen Police Department – Crime Records Office (P.O. Box 220, McAllen, TX 78505-0220). Alternatively, you may visit the McAllen Police Records Unit in person at 1601 N. Bicentennial Blvd during business hours (Monday – Friday, 8:00am – 6:00pm) to request the report. Be prepared to show identification and pay the fee (cash, check, or money order).

It usually takes a few days for the crash report to be available after an accident. Once you obtain it, review the report for accuracy. If you find any mistakes (for example, incorrect vehicle information or an error in how the accident is described), inform your attorney. While the police report is not absolute proof of fault, insurance companies heavily consider its contents when determining liability.

Tip: As part of our service, The Adley Law Firm can assist you in obtaining the crash report for your case. We know dealing with paperwork is the last thing you want to do while injured, so we help handle these details for you.

Types of Car Accidents We Handle in McAllen

Car accidents happen in many different ways. The Adley Law Firm has experience handling all types of auto accidents, from everyday fender-benders to the most catastrophic collisions. Some common accident scenarios in McAllen include:

Rear-End Collisions

Rear-end accidents are among the most common types of crashes. They often occur at stoplights, stop signs, or in heavy traffic when one vehicle hits the back of another. Whiplash injuries are typical in rear-end collisions, even at moderate speeds. In Texas, the trailing driver is often presumed to be at fault for following too closely or not paying attention, but there can be exceptions (for example, if the lead car’s brake lights were out). Our attorneys can help prove liability in rear-end cases by gathering evidence like skid marks, vehicle damage, and eyewitness accounts.

Rideshare (Uber & Lyft) Accidents

Accidents involving Uber or Lyft vehicles add another layer of complexity. If you were injured as a passenger in a rideshare or hit by a rideshare driver in McAllen, you may be dealing with multiple insurance policies. Uber and Lyft provide insurance coverage for their drivers, but coverage depends on whether the driver was actively using the app and carrying passengers at the time of the crash. Our lawyers understand the nuances of rideshare accident claims and can help ensure that the appropriate insurance – whether it’s the driver’s personal policy or the rideshare company’s policy – covers your damages.

Hit-and-Run Accidents

A hit-and-run is when a driver leaves the scene without stopping to provide information or help. These situations are frustrating and stressful for victims. If you’re involved in a hit-and-run in McAllen, try to remember or record any details about the fleeing vehicle (license plate, make, model, color) and report them to the police immediately. Hit-and-run drivers can face criminal charges when caught. For victims, if the hit-and-run driver isn’t found, you can turn to your own Uninsured Motorist (UM) coverage for compensation. The Adley Law Firm can assist with hit-and-run cases by coordinating with law enforcement and helping you file UM claims to get your expenses covered.

Drunk Driving Accidents

McAllen, like the rest of Texas, has strict laws against drunk driving, but unfortunately DUI-related crashes still occur. If you were hit by a drunk driver, that driver will likely face criminal charges. However, you also have the right to pursue a civil claim for your injuries. Drunk driving accidents often result in severe injuries due to reckless behavior like speeding or running red lights. Our attorneys will gather evidence of the driver’s intoxication (police reports, breathalyzer results, eyewitness testimony) to strengthen your injury claim. In some cases, Texas law may allow punitive damages to be awarded in civil court to punish the drunk driver. We will also explore whether a bar or restaurant overserved the driver prior to the crash (a potential “dram shop” claim), which could provide an additional source of compensation.

Pedestrian Accidents

When a vehicle strikes a pedestrian, the results can be devastating. Pedestrians in McAllen are vulnerable in crosswalks, parking lots, or alongside roads. Drivers have a duty to watch for people on foot, but accidents happen due to distracted or careless driving. Pedestrian accident injuries tend to be very serious (broken bones, head trauma, spinal injuries) because a person on foot has no protection. If you or a loved one were hit by a car as a pedestrian, our firm can help hold the driver accountable. We investigate factors such as whether the driver ran a stop sign or red light, was speeding in a school zone, or failed to yield at a crosswalk. Pedestrian victims can seek compensation for medical bills, lost income, pain and suffering, and other damages, just like any car accident victim.

Truck Accidents

Collisions involving large commercial trucks (18-wheelers and other big rigs) are especially dangerous. McAllen sees a lot of commercial traffic due to its location near major highways and trade routes, and accidents with trucks can cause catastrophic injuries. Truck accidents may be caused by factors like driver fatigue, overloaded or improperly secured cargo, brake or tire failures, or reckless driving. These cases are complex because multiple parties could be liable – the truck driver, the trucking company, maintenance contractors, or even the manufacturer of a faulty part. Also, trucking companies and their insurers often have rapid-response teams to protect their interests right after a crash. The Adley Law Firm has experience with truck accident cases and knows how to obtain crucial evidence such as driver log books, the truck’s “black box” data, and maintenance records. We fight to ensure that all responsible parties are held accountable and that you receive full compensation for your injuries and losses.

Motorcycle Accidents

Motorcyclists are vulnerable on the road. Even with helmets and protective gear, riders can suffer severe injuries in a collision. Often, drivers in cars fail to notice motorcycles or misjudge their speed, leading to accidents at intersections or during lane changes. Common scenarios include cars turning left in front of an oncoming motorcycle or drifting into a motorcycle’s lane. Unfortunately, injured motorcyclists sometimes face bias from insurance adjusters who unfairly assume the rider was speeding or reckless. Our attorneys advocate for injured motorcyclists in McAllen to make sure they are treated fairly. We understand the unique aspects of motorcycle accident claims and work to recover compensation for the serious injuries riders often sustain, such as road rash, broken bones, and head injuries.

No matter the type of accident, our goal is to take the legal burden off you. While you focus on healing, we focus on investigating the crash, determining who was at fault, and building a strong case for maximum compensation.

Common Car Accident Injuries

Car accidents can cause a wide range of injuries, from minor bruises to life-altering trauma. Some of the most common injuries we see in car accident cases include:

Whiplash and Neck Injuries: The sudden jolt from a collision (especially in rear-end crashes) can strain the neck and cervical spine. Whiplash may seem mild at first but can lead to chronic pain and limited mobility if not properly treated.
Back and Spinal Cord Injuries: Impact can injure the back, including herniated discs or even damage the spinal cord. Severe spinal injuries can result in paralysis or other permanent disabilities. Even less severe back injuries can cause long-term pain and require extensive therapy.
Head and Brain Injuries: Hitting your head or experiencing a violent shaking can cause concussions or more serious traumatic brain injuries (TBI). Even a mild concussion needs medical attention, and a severe TBI can have lasting cognitive and physical effects. Symptoms might include headaches, confusion, memory loss, or personality changes.
Broken Bones: The force of impact can break bones. Fractures in arms, legs, ribs, or wrists are common in high-impact crashes. Some breaks heal with casting, while others may require surgery and hardware. Broken bones can result in long recovery times and sometimes permanent impairment or arthritis.
Internal Injuries: The blunt force trauma from a crash can injure internal organs (such as the liver, spleen, or lungs) or cause internal bleeding. These injuries might not be immediately obvious and can be life-threatening. This is why it’s critical to get a medical check-up after an accident, even if you feel fine.
Cuts and Bruises: Shattered glass, deployed airbags, and flying debris can lead to lacerations, abrasions, and bruising. While many cuts and bruises heal relatively quickly, some deep lacerations may require stitches and can leave scars. Airbag deployments, while saving lives, often cause burns or abrasions on the face and arms.
Psychological Trauma: Not all injuries are physical. Being involved in a violent car accident can be a traumatic experience. It’s common for survivors to experience emotional distress, anxiety, or even post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Signs of psychological trauma might include trouble sleeping, fear of driving or riding in a car, mood swings, or depression. These emotional injuries are very real, and a claim can include compensation for mental anguish and loss of quality of life.

If you’ve been injured in a car accident, no matter the type of injury, it’s important to get proper medical care and follow your doctor’s advice. Documenting your injuries and treatments is essential for your claim. The Adley Law Firm can help connect you with medical providers if you’re unsure where to turn, and we’ll work to recover the costs of your medical care from the at-fault party as part of your compensation.

Why Choose The Adley Law Firm for Your McAllen Car Accident Case?

Selecting the right attorney after a car accident can make all the difference in the outcome of your case. Here’s why The Adley Law Firm stands out for car accident victims in McAllen:

Extensive Experience: Our legal team has years of experience handling car accident and personal injury cases throughout Texas. We understand the tactics that insurance companies use to minimize payouts and how to counter them. Our track record includes recovering significant settlements and verdicts for clients in a variety of accident scenarios.
Texas Statewide Representation: Although our firm is based in Houston, we serve clients all across Texas, including McAllen and the Rio Grande Valley. We are familiar with local McAllen roads, law enforcement, and insurance adjusters. No matter where you are in Texas, we can come to you or handle everything remotely, so you receive top-notch representation with convenience.
Bilingual Service (English & Spanish): Communication is key in legal cases. Our staff is fully bilingual, and we proudly provide services in Spanish (se habla español) and English. We ensure that Spanish-speaking clients can understand every aspect of their case and have their voices heard without any language barrier. You will always be able to communicate with us comfortably in your preferred language.
Personalized Attention: We treat our clients like family. Suffering from an accident is stressful, and you deserve compassion as well as expert guidance. When you work with The Adley Law Firm, you get a dedicated attorney who will take the time to answer your questions, keep you informed about progress, and guide you through the legal process step by step. We also offer to visit you at home or in the hospital in McAllen if you’re unable to travel due to your injuries.
Contingency Fee – No Upfront Costs: Our firm works on a contingency fee basis. That means you pay nothing upfront for our legal services. We only get paid if we win your case and recover compensation for you. This “no fee unless we win” promise means our interests are aligned with yours – we are motivated to get you the maximum compensation possible. The initial consultation is always free, so you can get legal advice about your case with no risk or obligation.

At The Adley Law Firm, our mission is to relieve the burden on you after a car accident. We handle the legal battles, insurance negotiations, and paperwork so that you can focus on healing and rebuilding your life. Our commitment to client satisfaction and justice is unwavering. When you choose us, you get a team that will fight aggressively to protect your rights and pursue the best possible outcome for your case.

Contact Us Today for a Free Consultation

If you or a loved one has been injured in a car accident in McAllen, TX, don’t wait to get the help you need. The sooner you have a knowledgeable McAllen car accident lawyer on your side, the better your chances of securing full compensation. If you tragically lost a family member in a crash, our team can also assist you in pursuing a wrongful death claim to seek justice for your loved one. Call The Adley Law Firm today at (713) 999-8669 to schedule your free consultation. Our legal team is available to review your case, answer your questions, and explain your options – all at no cost to you.

Remember, we operate on a contingency fee basis, which means you pay nothing unless we win your case. We can assist you in English or Spanish, according to your preference. Although our office is based in Houston, we serve clients in McAllen and throughout Texas. We’re ready to help you seek justice and fair compensation for your car accident case.

Take the next step toward recovery: Contact The Adley Law Firm and let our experienced team fight for you. You don’t have to face the aftermath of a car accident alone – we are here to advocate for your rights and get you the compensation you deserve.