Helping Bring You Peace of Mind

Frequently Asked Questions

If you were hurt in an accident in Dallas or Fort Worth, you probably have a lot of questions. Our attorneys at Frenkel & Frenkel have answered the questions we hear most often from our clients. Read through the answers below. If you do not see your question here, call us at any time for a free consultation. We are here to help you understand your rights and your next steps.

Personal Injury Questions Answered by Dallas Attorneys

Personal Injury FAQ: Common Questions About Injury Claims

Is it OK to discuss my case with family and friends?

It is important not TO talk to anyone outside of your family about your case, unless your attorney from Frenkel & Frenkel is present. If you get a phone call about your case, ask for identification and notify us. Do not talk to any insurance company, and notify us if your insurance company calls you. Also do not talk to any type of agent, attorney or investigator without first notifying us. Learn more about legal case confidentiality from the American Bar Association.

What is the most important thing for me to do after my injury?

The most important step after any injury is to see a doctor reach out to a car accident attorney right away — even if you feel fine. Getting medical care early protects your health and creates a record of your injuries that is critical to your case. See your doctor as soon as possible and follow his or her orders. You should:

Stay in touch with your doctor regularly to maintain appointments. If you have to cancel, notify your doctor with as much notice as possible. The words “no show” on a doctor’s record sheet can be used against you at the time of a settlement or trial.
Attend physical therapy sessions as prescribed to facilitate recovery from your injury and participate actively in the process. Physical therapy is helpful in many types of injuries including strains, sprains and other soft-tissue injuries.
Follow your doctor’s orders on medications, physical therapy, exercises or limitations of activities. Failure to follow your doctor’s advice can be used against you when it’s time to settle or litigate your case.
Keep accurate records of time missed from work due to your accident.

How do I pay my medical bills?

Your Frenkel & Frenkel attorney will review your medical bills and explain all available payment options. If there is no insurance coverage, your bills can often be held until your case is resolved through settlement or trial. Depending on your situation, medical bills may be covered through:

Call us today to find out which of these options applies to your situation.

Will the doctors, hospitals and other medical facilities wait for payment if I am unable to pay my bills?

In most cases where there is no immediate method to pay medical bills as they are incurred, doctors, hospitals and facilities will wait to be paid for their services until the case is resolved by way of settlement or verdict in court. Payment arrangements are specific to each provider and must be confirmed directly. You may remain responsible for unpaid medical bills regardless of your case outcome. Results may vary depending on the facts of your case. Arrangements to defer payment are provider-specific and must be confirmed with each provider. You may remain responsible for bills regardless of case outcome. It is important to let medical providers know early in the process if you have no insurance or financial means to pay medical bills as they are incurred. Have any medical providers contact your Frenkel & Frenkel attorney.

How are medical providers typically paid after a settlement or verdict?

Attorneys typically withhold money from a settlement or court verdict to pay doctors and medical facilities who provided treatment. It is important that you tell your attorney about all medical providers involved in your care. Results may vary depending on the facts of your case.

Why won’t the insurance company for the person or company who caused my injuries automatically pay my medical bills?

Most insurance companies for the person, people or company that caused your injuries will not automatically pay medical bills as they occur. The insured party does not want to expend a substantial sum of money on medical bills and then be faced with the chance of defending a lawsuit. Most insurance companies want to conclude or settle the claim with a single payment after receiving a demand letter from your attorney.

How do I keep track of my bills?

Keep every medical bill you receive in one folder and give your attorney a copy as soon as it arrives. One of the most important things for you to do is to keep an accurate record of your medical bills.

Be sure that your lawyer receives a copy of all of your medical bills as well as a summary for each when the case is ready for settlement. Even though your lawyer may receive copies of bills directly from the medical facilities, this double-check process will help can help make sure all documented medical expenses are considered in your claim. Outcomes depend on the facts, law, and circumstances of each case. If your lawyer does not have a record of all of your medical bills, your case may be settled for less than its actual value.
Keep a record of medical bills even if they are processed through a health insurance carrier. Even if a health insurance company or your employer pays your medical bills, you must still maintain copies.

What does it cost to hire a personal injury attorney at Frenkel & Frenkel?

Frenkel & Frenkel handles personal injury cases on a contingency fee basis. This means you pay nothing upfront and owe no attorney fees unless we recover compensation for you. Our fee is a percentage of the settlement or court award. There are no hidden costs to get started. Call us today for a free consultation. Results may vary depending on the facts of your case.

How long does a personal injury case take in Texas?

The time it takes to resolve a personal injury case in Texas depends on the facts of your case. Simple claims may settle in a few months. More complex cases, or those that go to trial, can take one to two years or longer. Factors include the severity of your injuries, the time needed to complete medical treatment, the insurance company's willingness to settle, and whether the case goes to court. Your attorney will give you a realistic timeline based on your specific situation. Results may vary depending on the facts of your case.

What is the statute of limitations for a personal injury case in Texas?

In Texas, you generally have two years from the date of your injury to file a personal injury lawsuit. This deadline is called the statute of limitations. If you miss this deadline, you may lose your right to recover compensation entirely. There are limited exceptions — for example, cases involving minors or delayed discovery of an injury. Do not wait. Contact a personal injury case in Texas attorney as soon as possible after your accident to protect your rights.

What should I bring to my first consultation with a personal injury attorney?

Bring as much documentation as you have. Helpful items include any accident or police reports, photos from the scene, medical records and bills, insurance cards, witness contact information, and a list of your questions. Do not worry if you do not have everything — we can help you gather records. The most important step is to contact us today as soon as possible so we can begin protecting your rights.

What should I do right after an accident in Dallas or Fort Worth?

After an accident in Dallas or Fort Worth, take these steps: Call 911 if anyone is hurt. Get medical attention even if you feel fine — some injuries appear hours or days later. Take photos of the scene, vehicles, and any visible injuries. Get contact and insurance information from everyone involved. Get witness names and phone numbers. Do not admit fault or discuss the accident with anyone other than police and your attorney. Then call Frenkel & Frenkel for a free consultation.

How much does it cost to hire Frenkel & Frenkel?

We handle personal injury cases on a contingency fee basis. This means you pay no attorney fees unless we recover compensation for you. We will explain all fee terms during your free consultation. Results may vary depending on the facts of your case.

What should I do immediately after a car accident or injury?

Call 911 if anyone is hurt. Seek medical care right away, even if you feel fine. Do not admit fault. Get the names, contact information, and insurance details of everyone involved. Take photos of the scene. Then contact Frenkel & Frenkel for a free consultation.

How long do I have to file a personal injury claim in Texas?

In Texas, you generally have two years from the date of your injury to file a personal injury lawsuit (Texas Civil Practice and Remedies Code § 16.003). Deadlines may differ for government entities, minors, or other circumstances. Do not wait — contact us as soon as possible to protect your rights. This is general information; consult an attorney for advice specific to your situation.

What is a free consultation and what does it include?

A free consultation is a no-cost meeting where you can tell us about your injury and ask questions. We will listen to the facts, let you know whether we may be able to help, and explain your options. There is no obligation to hire us after the consultation.

How long does a personal injury case take?

Case timelines vary widely depending on the facts, the severity of injuries, the insurance company's response, and whether the case settles or goes to trial. Some cases resolve in months; others may take longer. We will keep you informed throughout the process. Results may vary depending on the facts of your case.

What if I was partly at fault for my accident?

Texas uses a modified comparative fault rule. If you are found to be 51% or more at fault, you may not be able to recover damages. If you are 50% or less at fault, your compensation may be reduced by your percentage of fault. This is general information — your situation may differ. Contact us to discuss the specific facts of your case.

Do I have to go to court?

Many personal injury cases settle before trial. However, we prepare every case as if it will go to trial so we are ready if needed. Whether your case settles or goes to court depends on the facts and the positions of the parties involved. Results may vary depending on the facts of your case.

What information should I bring to my first meeting?

Bring any accident reports, photos, medical records and bills, insurance information, names and contact details of any witnesses, and any correspondence from insurance companies. The more information you share, the better we can evaluate your situation.