Accidents happen when we least expect them. A rear-end collision can cause serious injuries, even at low speeds. In this case, our client was hit while stuck in stop-and-go traffic in San Antonio. But with the right legal representation, we turned a $5,000 offer into a $300,000 settlement.
In this blog post, we’ll break down how we achieved this successful outcome for our client and highlight some important lessons for those involved in personal injury cases.
The Accident and Its Impact on Our Client
The accident took place in heavy traffic on I-35. Our client, unfortunately, was rear-ended at a low speed. While the accident seemed minor at first, it left our client suffering from herniated discs in her neck and back. This caused constant pain that affected her daily life.
Although she sought relief through chiropractic care and received epidural steroid injections, she didn’t undergo MRIs or any additional treatments that could have confirmed the severity of her injuries.
The Insurance Company’s Initial Response
Before she reached out to us, the defendant’s insurance company offered just $5,000. This paltry sum didn’t even come close to covering her medical expenses or compensating for the pain and suffering she experienced. When we took over the case, we pushed back against this lowball offer.
After taking over, the insurance company upped their offer to $20,500, but it was still far from what was necessary to cover her damages. That’s when we decided to take stronger legal action.
Our Strategy to Get Justice
At Eric Ramos Law, we knew the key to unlocking a fair settlement was through aggressive legal action. We filed a lawsuit against the defendant’s insurance company, sending a clear message that we were prepared to take the case to court if necessary.
By filing the lawsuit, we were able to:
- Accurately assess and document all of the client’s medical expenses and pain and suffering.
- Apply pressure on the insurance company to reconsider their offer.
- Use our negotiation skills to push for a higher settlement.
Within four months, we settled the case for $300,000—a result that ensured our client was properly compensated for her injuries.
Settlement Breakdown
Here’s how the final settlement of $300,000 broke down:
- $250,000 from the defendant’s insurance carrier.
- $50,000 from the client’s uninsured/underinsured motorist policy (through Liberty Mutual).
After medical bills, case expenses, and attorney fees, our client walked away with $161,306.63.
Why Choosing the Right Personal Injury Attorney Matters
This case illustrates the difference an experienced attorney can make. If our client had accepted the insurance company’s initial offer, she would have been left with far less compensation and significant financial strain.
Here’s why Eric Ramos Law stands out:
- We filed suit to send a message and force the insurance company to negotiate seriously.
- We carefully analyzed every aspect of the case to ensure fair compensation.
- We focused on client-centered service, ensuring that our clients received maximum compensation.
What You Can Learn from This Case
If you’ve been involved in a personal injury case, here’s what this settlement teaches us:
- Don’t settle for the first offer. Insurance companies tend to undervalue claims—especially if you don’t have the right legal representation.
- Filing a lawsuit can significantly improve your settlement. Sometimes, it’s the only way to get the compensation you deserve.
- Choose an experienced attorney. A skilled attorney will fight for your best interests and get you the compensation you deserve.
Contact Us for Help with Personal Injury Cases
If you’ve been injured in an accident, don’t let the insurance companies undervalue your claim. At Eric Ramos Law, we are here to fight for your rights and ensure you receive the compensation you deserve.
Call us today for a free consultation.
📍 Serving clients in San Antonio, Laredo, McAllen, Midland, and Austin.
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FAQ
- Who is at fault if you rear-end someone in Texas?
In Texas, the driver who rear-ends another vehicle is typically considered at fault. This is because drivers are required to maintain a safe following distance to avoid collisions in stop-and-go traffic. - What are most rear-end collisions caused by?
Most rear-end collisions in Texas are caused by distracted driving, tailgating, speeding, and failure to maintain a safe distance between vehicles, especially in heavy traffic. - What is the average payout for a rear-end collision in Texas?
The average payout for a rear-end collision in Texas varies based on injury severity, medical bills, and lost wages. Typically, settlements can range from a few thousand to hundreds of thousands of dollars, like the $300,000 settlement achieved in one of our recent cases. - Where is the greatest risk for a rear-end collision?
The greatest risk for rear-end collisions in Texas is in high-traffic areas, such as major highways, intersections, and stop-and-go conditions, particularly in cities like San Antonio and Dallas. - How can you prevent a rear-end collision?
To prevent a rear-end collision in Texas, always maintain a safe following distance, avoid distractions, and pay close attention to traffic signals and road conditions. Defensive driving is key. - What is the most serious type of collision?
The most serious type of collision in Texas is often a head-on collision, which can result in severe injuries or fatalities due to the direct impact between vehicles. - How much do lawyers take from a settlement in Texas?
In Texas, personal injury lawyers typically take a contingency fee of around 33-40% of the settlement, depending on the complexity of the case and whether it goes to trial. - What is the longest a settlement can take?
The longest a settlement can take in Texas depends on the complexity of the case, but it can take several months to over a year, especially if litigation is required. - How long before you get paid in settlement?
Once a settlement is reached in Texas, it usually takes about 4-6 weeks to receive the payment, as it involves paperwork, disbursement of funds, and finalizing medical liens. - How long does a compensation claim take to settle?
The duration of a compensation claim in Texas can vary, but simple claims may take 6-9 months, while complex cases with litigation could take over a year to resolve.