Your Car and Your Injuries Are Separate Claims
Short answer: After an Arlington crash there are usually two claims: property damage (your car) and bodily injury (you). The car claim often wraps up in weeks. The injury claim should wait until you know how hurt you are. Most injury lawyers handle only the injury side.
Handle the car first, carefully
You typically deal with the insurer yourself for repairs or a total loss, plus a rental. That's fine. Just read the paperwork: a release should say it covers property damage only. If it mentions "all claims" or bodily injury, don't sign it until a lawyer reviews it.
Common car questions
Who pays for my rental?
The at-fault driver's insurer, or your own rental coverage if you carry it.
My car was totaled, and I owe more than it's worth.
The insurer pays the car's actual cash value. If you have gap coverage, it pays the difference on the loan.
Then the injury claim
The injury claim covers medical bills, lost wages and pain and suffering. It's often worth far more than the car, and it takes longer because it depends on your recovery. Texas generally allows 2 years to file an injury lawsuit (CPRC §16.003). See do I need a lawyer? or all insurance guides.
Hurt in an Arlington crash?
Send a short request and a participating injury law firm will contact you for a free review. Crashes anywhere in Texas are welcome.