Car Accident Attorney in Addison

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Motor Vehicle Collision

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The Law Office of Joel M. Vecchio, P.C. is a traffic collision law firm near Addison TX.

A motor vehicle accident can turn your life upside down in an instant. At The Law Office of Joel M. Vecchio, P.C., we are dedicated to providing exceptional legal representation for car accident victims in Addison TX.

Why Settle for Less When You Can Have the Best?

  • Immediate Action, Fast Results: While other firms keep you waiting, we spring into action within hours of your call.
  • Over 20 Years of Focused Experience: With two decades of handling car accident cases in Addison, we bring a depth of knowledge and skill to your fight for justice.
  • Courtroom Dominance: We’re the firm insurance companies fear facing in court.
  • Personalized Legal Strategy: Cookie-cutter approaches fail. We craft unique strategies for every case, designed to maximize your compensation.
  • Compassionate Support: Our dedicated legal team guides you through each step, managing the complexities so you can concentrate on your recovery

Our Automobile Crash Recovery Program is designed to support you beyond legal representation—it’s about helping you rebuild your life. From coordinating medical care to negotiating with insurance companies, we handle every detail on your behalf.

Don’t Let Inexperience Cost You Thousands!

Many lawyers claim to handle car accidents. We’ve made it our sole mission. With over 20 years of focus on car accident cases in Addison, we bring unparalleled expertise to your fight.

Time is Critical, Act Now

Every moment counts after a car accident. Contact The Law Office of Joel M. Vecchio, P.C. today at (972) 381-4610 for a free, no-obligation case evaluation. Let us put our extensive experience to work for you and start your journey to recovery.

Real Results for Real People – What Your Neighbors Are Saying About Us

At The Law Office of Joel M. Vecchio, P.C., our reputation is built on the real experiences of your friends and neighbors right here in Addison. Here’s what our community is saying about us:

  • Strong Legal Knowledge and Successful Outcomes: Clients praise our thorough understanding of car accident law and our ability to secure compensation that often exceeds expectations.
  • Persistent Advocacy: We’re recognized for our unwavering commitment to fighting for clients’ rights, no matter how complex or lengthy the case.
  • Personalized Attention: Clients value our responsive communication and the personalized support we provide throughout the entire legal process.
  • Professionalism You Can Trust: Time and again, clients express relief and gratitude for our professional approach during stressful times, feeling confident in our ability to handle their cases effectively.
  • Compassionate Support: We listen to clients’ concerns and provide the understanding and empathy they need during challenging times.
  • Comprehensive Care: From dealing with insurance companies to addressing medical bills and lost income, we handle all aspects of your case so you can focus on recovery.

Our clients’ satisfaction is reflected in their positive feedback and recommendations. When you choose The Law Office of Joel M. Vecchio, P.C., you’re not just hiring a lawyer – you’re partnering with a dedicated advocate committed to fighting for your rights and well-being.

Common Motor Vehicle Accidents in Addison

  • Rear-End Collisions: When one vehicle crashes into the back of another, often due to sudden stops or distracted driving.
  • Head-On Collisions: Two vehicles hitting each other from the front, often resulting in severe injuries.
  • Side-Impact Collisions (T-bone): When the front of one vehicle crashes into the side of another, commonly at intersections.
  • Multi-Vehicle Pile-Ups: Multiple vehicles crashing into each other, usually on highways or in adverse weather conditions.
  • Single-Vehicle Accidents: Only one vehicle, which may collide with an object like a tree, pole, or guardrail.
  • Rollovers: When a vehicle flips onto its side or roof, often due to sharp turns or high-speed maneuvers.
  • Sideswipe Accidents: Occur when one vehicle swipes the side of the other. These often happen when changing lanes without checking blind spots.
  • Hit-and-Run Accidents: Involves a driver causing an accident and fleeing the scene.

The Vecchio V.I.C.T.O.R.Y. Process: Your Path to Maximum Compensation

While other firms may offer generic services, The Law Office of Joel M. Vecchio, P.C. employs our proprietary V.I.C.T.O.R.Y. Process, designed to maximize your compensation and minimize your stress:

  • Valuable Evidence Gathering: Our rapid response team uses cutting-edge technology to document accident scenes within hours, preserving crucial evidence.
  • In-Depth Investigation: We go beyond basic police reports, employing advanced accident reconstruction techniques and our network of specialized experts to build an ironclad case.
  • Comprehensive Case Management: Our state-of-the-art case management system ensures no detail is overlooked.
  • Tailored Legal Strategy: No cookie-cutter approaches here – we develop a personalized strategy for each case, anticipating challenges before they arise.
  • Open Communication: we keep you informed 24/7, providing transparency all the way.
  • Robust Negotiation: Our attorneys are dedicated to continuous professional development. They regularly participate in continuing legal education (CLE) courses, attend legal seminars, and are active members of professional organizations such as the Texas Trial Lawyers Association and the American Bar Association. By staying current with the latest changes in personal injury law, court rulings, and negotiation strategies, they are well-equipped to effectively negotiate and litigate on your behalf for maximum compensation.
  • Your Full Recovery: We don’t just seek compensation; our holistic approach includes partnering with top medical professionals to ensure your physical and emotional recovery.

This innovative process, combined with our deep experience in Texas car accident laws, allows us to navigate even the most complex cases with unparalleled efficiency and effectiveness. When you choose The Law Office of Joel M. Vecchio, P.C., you’re not just getting a lawyer – you’re getting a proven system designed to deliver victory.

How Much Compensation Will I Get?

After a car wreck on the roads of Addison due to the negligence of others, you deserve fair compensation for your losses. At The Law Office of Joel M. Vecchio, P.C., we fight to ensure you receive every dollar you’re entitled to. Here’s what you need to know about potential compensation in Texas:

  1. Vehicle Repair or Replacement:
    • Costs to repair your vehicle if it’s damaged.
    • Fair market value of your vehicle if it’s totaled (i.e., beyond repair).
  2. Personal Property Damage:
    • Costs to repair or replace personal belongings that were damaged in the accident (e.g., electronics, clothing).
  3. Rental Car Expenses:
    • Costs for renting a vehicle while your car is being repaired.
  4. Diminished Value:
    • Compensation for the reduced value of your vehicle after repairs are made, as it may be worth less than it was before the accident.
  1. Medical Expenses:
    • Current and future medical bills, including hospital stays, surgeries, doctor visits, physical therapy, medication, and any other medical treatments.
  2. Lost Wages:
    • Compensation for income lost due to the inability to work while recovering from injuries.
    • Future lost earning capacity if you are unable to return to work or must take a lower-paying job due to your injuries.
  3. Disability and Disfigurement:
    • Compensation for permanent disabilities or disfigurement resulting from the accident.
  4. Rehabilitation Costs:
    • Costs for long-term rehabilitation services required due to the injuries.
  1. Pain and Suffering:
    • Compensation for the physical pain and emotional suffering endured as a result of the accident and injuries.
  2. Mental Anguish:
    • Compensation for psychological impact, such as anxiety, depression, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).
  3. Loss of Enjoyment of Life:
    • Compensation for the loss of enjoyment of life due to the inability to participate in activities and hobbies enjoyed before the accident.
  4. Loss of Consortium:
    • Compensation for the impact of the accident on relationships with family members, particularly the loss of companionship, support, and intimacy with a spouse.
  1. Punitive Damages:
    • In cases where the at-fault party’s actions were particularly reckless or malicious, you may be awarded punitive damages to punish the wrongdoer and deter similar conduct in the future.
  2. Out-of-Pocket Expenses:
    • Reimbursement for various out-of-pocket expenses related to the accident, such as transportation to medical appointments, home modifications, and assistive devices.

Frequently Asked Questions From Clients

Sec. 545.062. FOLLOWING DISTANCE. (a) An operator shall, if following another vehicle, maintain an assured clear distance between the two vehicles so that, considering the speed of the vehicles, traffic, and the conditions of the highway, the operator can safely stop without colliding with the preceding vehicle or veering into another vehicle, object, or person on or near the highway.

(b) An operator of a truck or of a motor vehicle drawing another vehicle who is on a roadway outside a business or residential district and who is following another truck or motor vehicle drawing another vehicle shall, if conditions permit, leave sufficient space between the vehicles so that a vehicle passing the operator can safely enter and occupy the space. This subsection does not prohibit a truck or a motor vehicle drawing another vehicle from passing another vehicle.

(c) An operator on a roadway outside a business or residential district driving in a caravan of other vehicles or a motorcade shall allow sufficient space between the operator and the vehicle preceding the operator so that another vehicle can safely enter and occupy the space. This subsection does not apply to a funeral procession.

(d) An operator of a vehicle equipped with a connected braking system that is following another vehicle equipped with that system may be assisted by the system to maintain an assured clear distance or sufficient space as required by this section. In this subsection, “connected braking system” means a system by which the braking of one vehicle is electronically coordinated with the braking system of a following vehicle.

What does this law mean in simple terms?

Drivers must:

  • Keep enough distance from the vehicle in front to stop safely if needed
  • Consider speed, traffic, and road conditions when determining safe distance
  • Allow extra space when driving trucks or in caravans on highways

Where does this law apply?

  • On all roads and highways

How does this relate to car accidents?

  • In rear-end collisions, the driver behind is often presumed at fault under this law
  • Can help establish negligence in accident cases
  • May affect liability in multi-vehicle accidents or those involving commercial vehicles

What should you do?

  • If rear-ended, don’t automatically admit fault
  • Note any sudden stops or hazards that might have contributed to the accident

In Texas, you generally have two years from the date of an automobile accident to file personal injury, property damage, or wrongful death claims. The statute of limitations for traffic collision claims in Texas is governed by the Texas Civil Practice and Remedies Code, Section 16.003

The statute of limitations sets a strict deadline for filing a lawsuit following a traffic crash. It’s important to understand these time limits to ensure you protect your right to seek compensation. Here’s what you need to know:

Personal Injury Claims

For personal injury claims resulting from a car collision, you generally have two years from the date of the accident to file a lawsuit. This includes claims for:

  • Medical expenses
  • Lost wages
  • Pain and suffering
  • Mental anguish
  • Other related damages

Property Damage Claims

Similarly, for property damage claims, such as damage to your vehicle or personal belongings, you also have two years from the date of the accident to file a lawsuit.

Wrongful Death Claims

If a car accident results in the death of a loved one, the statute of limitations for filing a wrongful death claim in Texas is two years from the date of the person’s death.

Exceptions to the Statute of Limitations

There are some exceptions to these general rules that may extend or shorten the time you have to file a claim:

  1. Minors: If the injured party is a minor, the statute of limitations may be extended. Typically, the two-year period does not begin until the minor turns 18 years old.
  2. Government Claims: If your claim is against a government entity, such as a city or state agency, you may have a much shorter time frame to provide notice of your claim, sometimes as short as six months from the date of the accident.
  3. Discovery Rule: In certain cases, if the injury or damage was not immediately discoverable, the statute of limitations may begin from the date the injury or damage was discovered or reasonably should have been discovered.

Be cautious about accepting an initial settlement offer from an insurance company after an automobile wreck. These offers are often lower than what your claim is truly worth and may not cover future medical expenses or long-term effects of your injuries. Before accepting any offer, consult with a motor vehicle collision attorney who can evaluate the full extent of your damages, including hidden costs like future treatments or lost earning capacity. Our legal team can negotiate with insurers to ensure you receive fair compensation for all accident-related losses.

If you’re hit by an uninsured driver on Addison roads, you may still have options for compensation. Check if your own auto insurance policy includes uninsured motorist coverage, which can pay for your injuries and damages in such scenarios. Additionally, you might be able to file a personal injury lawsuit directly against the at-fault driver. In hit-and-run accidents, our investigators can work to identify the responsible party. Regardless of the circumstances, our firm can help you explore all available avenues for recovering damages after a collision with an uninsured motorist.

Pre-existing conditions don’t disqualify you from compensation if the vehicle crash worsened your condition. Known as the “eggshell plaintiff” rule, the at-fault party is responsible for the extent to which they aggravated your condition, even if your injuries are more severe due to your pre-existing vulnerability. We work with medical experts to clearly establish how the accident impacted your health, ensuring you’re compensated fairly.

Our car accident law firm operates on a contingency fee basis, meaning you pay nothing upfront for our legal services. We only get paid if we successfully recover compensation for your collision-related damages. Our fee is a predetermined percentage of the settlement or court award, ensuring our interests align with yours. This arrangement allows crash victims to access high-quality legal representation without worrying about out-of-pocket expenses during their recovery period.

Pre-existing conditions don’t disqualify you from compensation if the vehicle crash worsened your condition. Known as the “eggshell plaintiff” rule, the at-fault party is responsible for the extent to which they aggravated your condition, even if your injuries are more severe due to your pre-existing vulnerability. We work with medical experts to clearly establish how the accident impacted your health, ensuring you’re compensated fairly.

How to Get to Our Law Firm

Our law firm is located at the NE intersection of US-75 and E Park Blvd in the Plano Tower building. We are close to the Collin County Tax office, Chisholm Plaza and Collin County Justice of the Peace Precinct 3.

Important Addison Traffic Laws

Texas has specific laws that apply to car accidents, and are defined in the Texas Transportation Code. These laws are important for drivers in Addison to understand, as they affect your rights and responsibilities after a crash.

The statute of limitations for car accident claims in Addison is governed by the Texas Civil Practice and Remedies Code, Section 16.0031. This law states:

Sec. 16.003. TWO-YEAR LIMITATIONS PERIOD. (a) Except as provided by Sections 16.010, 16.0031, and 16.0045, a person must bring suit for trespass for injury to the estate or to the property of another, conversion of personal property, taking or detaining the personal property of another, personal injury, forcible entry and detainer, and forcible detainer not later than two years after the day the cause of action accrues.

(b) A person must bring suit not later than two years after the day the cause of action accrues in an action for injury resulting in death. The cause of action accrues on the death of the injured person.

What does this mean?

  • If someone damages your car, or if you get hurt in a car accident, you have 2 years to take the case to court and ask for help.
  • This rule also applies if someone tries to take your car by force.
  • If someone gets hurt in a car accident and dies because of it, their family has 2 years from the day they died to go to court and ask for help.

So, if you get hurt in a car accident or your car gets damaged, or if someone you love dies in a car accident, you have 2 years to take legal action. If you wait longer than 2 years, you might not be able to get help from the court.

While this is the legal deadline for filing a lawsuit, we recommend to start the claims process much sooner. Here’s why:

  • Evidence preservation: Over time, evidence can be lost or destroyed, and witnesses’ memories can fade.
  • Insurance company deadlines: Many insurance policies require prompt notification of accidents.
  • Preparation time: Building a strong case often takes considerable time and effort.

This law requires you to report any accident that results in injury, death, or damage that prevents a vehicle from being driven safely2.

Sec. 550.026. IMMEDIATE REPORT OF COLLISION. (a) The operator of a vehicle involved in a collision resulting in injury to or death of a person or damage to a vehicle to the extent that it cannot be normally and safely driven shall immediately by the quickest means of communication give notice of the collision to the:

(1) local police department if the collision occurred in a municipality;

(2) local police department or the sheriff’s office if the collision occurred not more than 100 feet outside the limits of a municipality; or

(3) sheriff’s office or the nearest office of the department if the collision is not required to be reported under Subdivision (1) or (2).

(b) If a section of road is within 100 feet of the limits of more than one municipality, the municipalities may agree regarding the maintenance of reports made under Subsection (a)(2). A county may agree with municipalities in the county regarding the maintenance of reports made under Subsection (a)(2). An agreement under this subsection does not affect the duty to report a collision under Subsection (a).

What does this law mean in simple terms? You must contact the Addison police or sheriff immediately if:

  • Anyone is hurt.
  • Someone died.
  • A car is so damaged that it can’t be driven safely.

Who do you contact?

  • If you’re in the town/city, call the local police department.
  • If you’re just outside a city (within 100 feet of its edge), call either the local police or the sheriff.
  • If you’re far from a city, call the sheriff or the nearest state police office.

Reckless driving means operating a vehicle without caring about the safety of others or their property, and is considered a misdemeanor offense in Texas3.

Sec. 545.401. RECKLESS DRIVING; OFFENSE.

(a) A person commits an offense if the person drives a vehicle in wilful or wanton disregard for the safety of persons or property.

(b) An offense under this section is a misdemeanor punishable by:
(1) a fine not to exceed $200;
(2) confinement in county jail for not more than 30 days; or
(3) both the fine and the confinement.

(c) Notwithstanding Section 542.001, this section applies to:
(1) a private access way or parking area provided for a client or patron by a business, other than a private residential property or the property of a garage or parking lot for which a charge is made for the storing or parking of motor vehicles; and
(2) a highway or other public place.

(d) Notwithstanding Section 542.004, this section applies to a person, a team, or motor vehicles and other equipment engaged in work on a highway surface.

What does this law mean in simple terms?

Penalties

  • A fine of up to $200.
  • Up to 30 days in county jail.
  • Or both the fine and jail time.

Where does this law apply?

  • On public roads and highways of Addison.
  • In parking lots and private access ways provided for customers by businesses.
  • In areas where road work is being done.

How does this relate to car accidents?

  • If you’re in an accident caused by a reckless driver, this law can help prove they were at fault.
  • Reckless driving behavior can strengthen your claim for compensation.

This law requires drivers to maintain a safe following distance to prevent collisions, particularly rear-end accidents. (Tailgating, following too closely, riding someone’s bumper.)4

Sec. 545.062. FOLLOWING DISTANCE. (a) An operator shall, if following another vehicle, maintain an assured clear distance between the two vehicles so that, considering the speed of the vehicles, traffic, and the conditions of the highway, the operator can safely stop without colliding with the preceding vehicle or veering into another vehicle, object, or person on or near the highway.

(b) An operator of a truck or of a motor vehicle drawing another vehicle who is on a roadway outside a business or residential district and who is following another truck or motor vehicle drawing another vehicle shall, if conditions permit, leave sufficient space between the vehicles so that a vehicle passing the operator can safely enter and occupy the space. This subsection does not prohibit a truck or a motor vehicle drawing another vehicle from passing another vehicle.

(c) An operator on a roadway outside a business or residential district driving in a caravan of other vehicles or a motorcade shall allow sufficient space between the operator and the vehicle preceding the operator so that another vehicle can safely enter and occupy the space. This subsection does not apply to a funeral procession.

(d) An operator of a vehicle equipped with a connected braking system that is following another vehicle equipped with that system may be assisted by the system to maintain an assured clear distance or sufficient space as required by this section. In this subsection, “connected braking system” means a system by which the braking of one vehicle is electronically coordinated with the braking system of a following vehicle.

What does this law mean in simple terms?

Drivers must:

  • Keep enough distance from the vehicle in front to stop safely if needed.
  • Consider speed, traffic, and road conditions when determining safe distance.
  • Allow extra space when driving trucks or in caravans on highways.

Where does this law apply?

  • On all roads and highways in Addison.

How does this relate to car accidents?

  • In rear-end collisions, the driver behind is often presumed at fault under this law.
  • Can help establish negligence in accident cases.
  • May affect liability in multi-vehicle accidents or those involving commercial vehicles.

What should you do?

  • If rear-ended, don’t automatically admit fault.
  • Note any sudden stops or hazards that might have contributed to the accident.

Contributing Factors to Car Crashes in Addison

The following shows the main causes of car crashes on our roads as reported by the Addison police.

  • Backed without safety: Reversing without checking surroundings.
  • Cell/mobile device use – other: Using a mobile device for activities other than talking.
  • Cell/mobile device use – talking: Talking on a mobile device while driving.
  • Distraction in vehicle: Distractions caused by activities or objects inside the vehicle.
  • Driver inattention: Lack of focus on the road due to various reasons.
  • Disregard stop and go signal: Ignoring traffic lights and signals.
  • Disregard stop sign or light: Failing to stop at stop signs or lights.
  • Disregard turn marks at intersection: Ignoring turn markers at intersections.
  • Failed to heed warning sign: Not obeying warning signs on the road.
  • Failed to stop at proper place: Not stopping at designated stopping points.
  • Failed to yield right of way – emergency vehicle: Not yielding to emergency vehicles.
  • Failed to yield right of way – open intersection: Not yielding at open intersections.
  • Failed to yield right of way – private drive: Not yielding when exiting private driveways.
  • Failed to yield right of way – stop sign: Not yielding at stop signs.
  • Failed to yield right of way – to pedestrian: Not yielding to pedestrians.
  • Failed to yield right of way – turn on red: Not yielding when turning right on red.
  • Failed to yield right of way – turning left: Not yielding when making left turns.
  • Failed to yield right of way – yield sign: Not yielding at yield signs.
  • Changed lane when unsafe: Changing lanes without ensuring it’s safe.
  • Failed to control speed: Driving at an inappropriate speed for conditions.
  • Failed to drive in single lane: Not staying within a single lane.
  • Drove on improved shoulder: Driving on the road’s shoulder.
  • Followed too closely: Following another vehicle too closely.
  • Unsafe speed: Driving at speeds that are unsafe for the current conditions.
  • Fatigued or asleep: Driving while fatigued or asleep.
  • Had been drinking: Driving after consuming alcohol.
  • Under influence – alcohol: Driving under the influence of alcohol.
  • Under influence – drug: Driving under the influence of drugs.
  • Disabled in traffic lane: Vehicle stopped in a traffic lane due to mechanical issues.
  • Drove without headlights: Driving without headlights when required.
  • Faulty evasive action: Poor execution of an evasive maneuver.
  • Improper start from parked position: Starting to drive from a parked position unsafely.
  • Oversized vehicle or load: Driving a vehicle or load that is too large for the road conditions.
  • Overtake and pass insufficient clearance: Passing another vehicle without enough space.
  • Parked in traffic lane: Parking in a lane of traffic.
  • Pedestrian failed to yield right of way to vehicle: Pedestrians not yielding to vehicles.
  • Road rage: Aggressive driving behaviors due to anger.
  • Turned improperly – cut corner on left: Making a left turn by cutting the corner.
  • Turned improperly – wide right: Making a right turn too wide.
  • Turned improperly – wrong lane: Turning into the incorrect lane.
  • Turned when unsafe: Turning when it’s not safe to do so.
  • Wrong way – one way road: Driving the wrong way on a one-way street.
  •  

Useful Resources

Recent Vehicle Collisions in Addison

Data for this table provided by the Addison Police Department5.

No crash data available for ADDISON during this period.

References

  1. Statute of Limitations: Texas Civil Practice and Remedies Code § 16.003
  2. Reporting an accident: Texas Transportation Code § 550.026.
  3. Reckless Driving: Texas Transportation Code § 545.401
  4. Following Distance: Texas Transportation Code § 545.062
  5. Crash Records Information System by the Texas Department of Transportation