Van Personal Injury Attorney Serving Van and Van Zandt County, Texas

Start by seeking medical care and reporting the accident to the police and your insurance company. Documenting injuries and the accident scene early strengthens any later claim. Contact a van accident attorney to discuss the facts, preserve evidence, and understand deadlines and insurance procedures. The firm can advise whether to accept an insurer's offer and help protect your recovery.

You may recover economic damages such as medical expenses, rehabilitation costs, lost wages, and property damage. Non-economic damages like pain and suffering or loss of enjoyment of life may also be recoverable depending on the case. In some situations you might seek damages for future care needs, reduced earning capacity, or funeral expenses in wrongful death cases. The amount depends on medical evidence, liability, and the strength of documentation.

In Texas, the general statute of limitations for personal injury claims is two years from the date of the accident. Missing this deadline can bar your right to recover, so prompt action is important. Some circumstances create different timelines, such as claims against government entities or delayed discovery of injuries. Consult an attorney early to confirm applicable deadlines for your case.

Coverage depends on the specific policies in place. Liability insurance of an at-fault driver typically covers injured parties, while your own uninsured or underinsured motorist coverage can help if the other driver lacks sufficient insurance. Notify your insurer, keep records of medical care and lost income, and discuss your coverage options with a lawyer who can coordinate claims with multiple insurers when needed.

When a van is used for business, the employer and the company’s insurer may be responsible for damages. These cases often involve additional evidence such as driver logs, maintenance records, and company policies. Commercial carriers often have specialized liability coverage and claims teams. A lawyer can obtain relevant records and assess whether employer liability or vendor responsibility applies in your case.

Texas applies a comparative fault system that reduces a claimant's recovery in proportion to their share of fault. If you are found 50% or less at fault, you can still recover a reduced award. If you are found more than 50% at fault, recovery may be barred. Clear documentation and evidence can limit arguments of shared fault and protect your potential recovery.

Many van accident claims resolve through negotiation and settlement with insurers. Settling avoids the time and expense of trial while providing compensation more quickly in many cases. If negotiations do not produce a fair result, going to court may be necessary. Preparing for trial strengthens settlement negotiations and ensures readiness if litigation becomes the best option.

Options include using health insurance, medical payment coverage if available, or arranging bills with providers while your claim is pending. Some providers may agree to liens or deferred payment arrangements tied to a future settlement. Discuss payment options with your medical providers and an attorney who can negotiate on your behalf and coordinate medical billing with the claim process.

Case duration varies widely based on injury severity, the complexity of liability, and how cooperative insurers are. Some straightforward claims resolve in a few months, while complex cases may take a year or longer. Early investigation and medical documentation often speed resolution. When liability is disputed or injuries are severe, a thorough preparation period is necessary to pursue fair compensation.

Preserve photographs of the scene and vehicles, keep medical records and bills, obtain the police report, and save contact information for witnesses. Avoid altering or discarding damaged property without discussing it with your lawyer. Limit public postings about the accident, and provide facts about your injuries to medical professionals. Promptly consulting an attorney helps ensure key evidence is preserved for investigations and negotiations.