How Our Car Accident Lawyers Help in Fort Worth
We build every case as if it will go to trial, which gives you the strongest leverage for a fair settlement. Brad Parker is Board Certified in Personal Injury Trial Law by the Texas Board of Legal Specialization and has tried cases since 1985.
When you hire us, we:
- Gather the crash report, photos, video, and witness statements
- Handle all calls with the insurance adjuster
- Document your medical care, lost income, and other losses
- Negotiate and attend mediation with you
- File suit and try the case if the insurer won’t make a fair offer
When Does a Car Accident Case Go to Court?
A car accident case usually goes to court only when settlement talks fail. Common reasons include:
- The insurer denies its driver caused the crash or blames you
- The offer does not cover your medical bills and lost wages
- Your injuries are serious and the policy limits are disputed
- The two-year filing deadline is approaching and talks are still open
Filing a lawsuit protects your rights under the Texas statute of limitations. It does not lock you into a trial. Many cases settle after filing, once the insurer sees the evidence.
What Happens if Your Case Is Filed in Court?
A lawsuit follows a set series of steps, and most of them happen outside the courtroom:
- Petition. Your lawyer files the case, usually in Tarrant County.
- Discovery. Both sides exchange records and answer written questions.
- Depositions. Drivers, witnesses, and doctors give sworn testimony.
- Mediation. A neutral mediator helps both sides try to settle.
- Trial. If there is no agreement, a judge or jury decides fault and damages.
Texas uses modified comparative fault. If a jury finds you more than 50% responsible, you recover nothing. At 50% or less, your award is reduced by your share.
What to Do Now to Protect Your Claim
What you do in the first weeks shapes whether your claim settles fairly or needs a lawsuit:
- See a doctor promptly and follow your treatment plan
- Keep receipts, bills, and records of missed work
- Do not post about the crash or your injuries online
- Do not give a recorded statement to the other driver’s insurer before talking to a lawyer
- Do not sign a release until you know the full cost of your injuries
Read more about who is at fault for a Fort Worth car accident.
About Brad Parker
Do I Have To Go To Court After a Car Accident? FAQs
Will my car accident case go to trial?
Probably not. Most car accident claims in Texas settle through negotiation or mediation. A case usually goes to trial only when the insurer disputes fault or refuses to pay a fair amount for your injuries. Preparing as if trial will happen is often what produces a fair settlement.
Do I have to testify if my case is filed in court?
If a lawsuit is filed, you will likely give a deposition, which is sworn testimony taken in a lawyer's office, not a courtroom. You would testify in court only if the case reaches trial. Your lawyer prepares you for each step so you know what to expect.
How long does a car accident lawsuit take in Tarrant County?
It varies. A lawsuit can take a year or more from filing to trial because of discovery, depositions, and court scheduling. Many cases settle along the way, often at mediation. Cases with serious injuries usually take longer, because it takes time to know the full cost of your recovery.
How much does a car accident lawyer cost?
Parker Law Firm Injury Lawyers handles car accident cases on a contingency fee. You pay nothing upfront and owe no attorney's fees unless we recover money for you. Our fee will never exceed your recovery, and we explain the exact terms in writing before we start.
Visit Our Fort Worth Office
Parker Law Firm Injury Lawyers – Fort Worth Office
209 N Hampton St, Fort Worth, TX 76102
- Monday – Friday 8:00 am – 5:00 pm
- Saturday – Sunday Closed