Frequently Asked Questions

• What should I do after an accident?
• When should I call an attorney?
• Does it cost me anything to speak to a lawyer?
• How do I know if I have a personal injury case?
• What happens if the person who caused my injury does not have insurance?
• Should I accept an insurance company's settlement offer?
• Can I settle without going to court?
• How will I pay your attorney's fees?
• Will I still owe a fee if we do not recover any money?

Contact Timothy E. McKenna, P.C.

We accept personal injury claims on a contingent basis.  All cases are unique, so call us without obligation at 713-783-9900 or just contact us online if you have any questions or need additional information.

What should I do after an accident?

If you are injured, immediately seek medical attention.  If you are able to remain on the scene, whether it is a car accident or an accident at someone's property.  You should attempt to gather as much information as possible—identify witnesses and obtain their statements, take photos if you have a camera, and make detailed notes about what happened.
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When should I call an attorney?

You should contact an attorney after being injured.  In most cases, there are time limits for filing claims after an injury occurs, and if this deadline passes, your claim could be dismissed.  In addition, finding witnesses and gathering evidence to support your case becomes more difficult the longer you wait.
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Does it cost me anything to speak to a lawyer?

No.  We offer a free initial consultation, during which we will assess your case and discuss all available alternatives.
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How do I know if I have a personal injury case?

Please call our firm to arrange a no-cost, no-obligation consultation.  We will review the facts and circumstances surrounding your accident and the injuries sustained.  An attorney will explain your legal remedies and your right to recover compensation for damages.
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What happens if the person whom caused my injury does not have insurance?

During your initial consultation, we will review your legal remedies and your options for recovery.  Our attorneys thoroughly investigate alternative sources, exploring all possible avenues to collect damages above and beyond available insurance coverage.  In accidents involving cars, trucks, motorcycles, under-insured and uninsured motorist coverage may be a source of recovery.
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Should I accept an insurance company's settlement offer?

Before accepting a settlement, it is always in your best interest to consult an attorney.  Adjusters work for the insurance company, not for you.  Their job is to settle the matter for the lower possible cost to the company.  An attorney will work for you and ensure that a settlement results in full compensation for your injuries, including money for future, unanticipated medical expenses.
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Can I settle without going to court?

Many injury claims can be settled for their full value through negotiation, mediation, or arbitration, without you having to go to court.  However, some complex cases, or cases the insurance company refuses to settle, may require that you participate in legal proceedings.
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How will I pay your attorney's fees?

Our attorneys represent personal injury accident victims on a contingent fee basis, which means a percentage of the recovery covers our fee for legal services.
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Will I still owe a fee if we do not recover any money?

While our attorneys expect to and do recover money in most cases, you would not owe us a fee if we do not win an award to compensate for your personal injury.
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