Month: May 2025

Who Are Your Carew Garcia Car Accident Attorneys?

The McKinney-based car accident attorneys at Carew Garcia are here to help you navigate the aftermath of a serious crash. Attorney Monica Bohuslav and Attorney Patrick J. Carew have dedicated their practice to protecting the rights of injured Texans. Their focus has always been on securing fair compensation for people who suffer life-altering injuries in collisions caused by someone else’s negligence.

Attorney Monica Bohuslav brings a wealth of hands-on experience in personal injury law. She takes pride in guiding clients through complicated legal processes, especially when they are under intense physical and emotional stress. Attorney Patrick Carew has spent years building a reputation as a committed advocate for crash victims, fighting aggressively against insurance companies that often undervalue valid claims. Together, they serve McKinney and the surrounding areas, including Frisco, Plano, and beyond.

A Compassionate, Client-Centered Approach

These Collin County car accident attorneys approach every case with understanding and empathy. They know how overwhelming medical bills, car repairs, and lost wages can be after a wreck on busy roads like US‑75, TX‑121, or US‑380. By offering a free consultation and a “no-win, no-fee” agreement, Attorneys Bohuslav and Carew ensure you don’t have to worry about legal bills while you’re healing.

Local Knowledge for McKinney Crash Victims

Carew Garcia’s office is conveniently located at 2540 E University Dr Suite B, McKinney, TX 75069. This proximity allows Attorney Monica Bohuslav and Attorney Patrick Carew to stay familiar with local traffic patterns, common accident hotspots, and the Collin County court system. If you’ve been injured in Stonebridge Ranch, Craig Ranch, or anywhere else in North Texas, their local insight can help you pursue the compensation you need to move forward.

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Why Hire a Car Accident Lawyer in McKinney, TX?

Car accidents in McKinney can lead to devastating injuries and sudden financial strain. In 2023 alone, there were 889 crashes involving 1,854 vehicles, reflecting the real dangers on US‑75, US‑380, and other major roads. Traffic congestion and reckless driving can cause life-changing injuries, from broken bones to traumatic brain damage.

Insurance adjusters often seek quick, low settlements. They might pressure you to accept an offer before you grasp the full extent of your medical costs or lost wages. McKinney car accident attorneys at Carew Garcia help level the playing field. Attorney Patrick J. Carew and Attorney Monica Bohuslav handle the paperwork, gather evidence, and work tirelessly to secure every dollar you deserve. They also keep you informed about critical deadlines—like Texas’s two-year statute of limitations—so no detail slips through the cracks.

How Our Local Experience Benefits You

Because Attorney Bohuslav and Attorney Carew work in Collin County daily, they understand the local legal landscape. They know how specific intersections on US‑380 or US‑75 are frequently the sites of serious collisions. This kind of detailed knowledge allows them to build stronger cases, speak directly with local witnesses, and stand up to insurers who underestimate your injuries. Their advocacy often means the difference between a minimal payout and getting fully compensated for hospital stays, vehicle repairs, missed paychecks, and more.

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How Do Car Accident Lawyers Charge for Their Services?

Most car accident lawyers in Texas use what’s known as a contingency fee. That means your attorney’s fee is a fixed percentage of the amount you recover through a settlement or trial verdict. You pay nothing upfront. If you do not get compensated, you owe no attorney’s fee.

For instance, if Attorney Patrick Carew successfully negotiates a $100,000 settlement for you and your contingency fee rate is 33%, the firm’s fee would be $33,000 (not counting pre-approved case expenses). You would keep the remaining $67,000. Should your claim fail to recover any damages, Carew Garcia would not bill you for attorney’s fees. This model aligns the lawyer’s interests with yours—both of you want the largest possible award.

Contingency Fees vs. Hourly or Flat Fees

Occasionally, an attorney might charge by the hour or offer a flat fee for very simple matters. However, in car accident cases—where injured victims are already facing significant costs—charging as the case goes along is impractical. Hourly or flat fees could demand thousands of dollars upfront, which can be overwhelming if you’re out of work and dealing with medical bills. By contrast, the McKinney car accident lawyers at Carew Garcia only get paid if you win, so you never worry about monthly invoices or hidden costs.

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What Is a Contingency Fee Arrangement?

A contingency fee arrangement is an agreement stating that Attorney Monica Bohuslav or Attorney Patrick Carew will only get paid if they win your case. This means they handle all investigations, negotiate with insurers, gather expert opinions, and, if necessary, go to trial without charging any upfront fees.

The percentage for car accident claims in Texas typically ranges from about 33% to 40%, depending on factors such as case complexity and whether the case goes to court. The car accident attorneys at Carew Garcia discuss these details with you during a free consultation, making sure you understand how fees are calculated and what might alter those percentages. Everything is laid out clearly so there are no surprises later.

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Will I Owe Any Fees If My Case Is Unsuccessful?

Under the contingency fee model, the answer is no. You owe no attorney’s fees if the case does not result in compensation. This arrangement allows people of all financial backgrounds to seek justice after a serious crash. The firm shoulders the risk, so you can focus on your health and recovery.

However, you might still be responsible for certain case-related costs, such as paying for expert reports or obtaining official medical records. Attorney Monica Bohuslav will go over these specifics before you sign any paperwork. Overall, the financial risk to you remains minimal—if the claim doesn’t succeed, you won’t owe fees for the lawyer’s time.

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Are There Any Other Costs in a Car Accident Claim?

Beyond attorney fees, there may be out-of-pocket costs tied to building a strong case. For example, investigators might collect and analyze the crash data, or an accident reconstruction expert might be brought in to clarify who was at fault. Court filing fees, medical record requests, and deposition transcripts also come into play.

Typically, Attorney Patrick Carew and the Collin County car accident attorneys at Carew Garcia will advance these costs on your behalf. When a settlement or verdict is reached, these expenses are taken out of the total recovery along with the contingency fee. For instance, if you receive a $20,000 settlement and there are $2,000 in documented case costs, the net becomes $18,000, and your lawyer’s contingency fee is then applied to that remainder. Attorney Bohuslav always reviews how this breakdown works, so you know precisely what to expect.

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Can My Lawyer Charge Hourly or Flat Fees Instead?

Hourly or flat fee structures are generally rare in car accident claims. These billing methods might be used in other practice areas, or in extremely simple personal injury matters that require minimal time. However, most crash victims rely on contingency billing because it minimizes their financial risk. You don’t have to worry about writing checks at a time when money might be tight.

In theory, you could request an hourly or flat rate, but it may not be in your best interest if your case grows more complicated than expected. The most common—and client-friendly—option remains the contingency fee. With that system, your McKinney personal injury attorney is motivated to pursue the highest possible settlement or verdict on your behalf.

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Why Is Hiring a Lawyer Worth It?

In most scenarios, hiring a skilled lawyer dramatically increases your chance of recovering a fair and substantial settlement. Negotiating with insurance companies can be difficult, especially if you’re unfamiliar with how they calculate damages for medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering. Insurers often try to minimize payouts, leaving unrepresented claimants with less than they deserve.

By engaging Attorney Patrick Carew or Attorney Monica Bohuslav, you gain advocates who understand local traffic laws, Texas negligence standards, and the long-term costs of serious injuries. They take the burden of managing paperwork, contacting witnesses, and confronting insurance adjusters. Even after paying a contingency fee, most clients walk away with substantially more compensation and significantly less stress.

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When Should I Contact a Car Accident Lawyer in Texas?

Timing is crucial. You generally have only two years from the accident date to file a personal injury claim in Texas. The longer you wait, the harder it becomes to gather evidence such as witness statements and crash scene photos. McKinney car accident attorney Monica Bohuslav and Attorney Patrick Carew advise reaching out as soon as possible—preferably while memories are fresh and before you’ve spoken with the insurance company at length.

Remember, the McKinney personal injury attorneys at Carew Garcia offer a free consultation. Delaying contact could lead to missed opportunities for early negotiation or critical investigative steps. By seeking legal advice early, you stand the best chance of recovering the full amount you need to cover medical expenses, lost wages, property damage, and pain and suffering.

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How Can I Get Started with Carew Garcia?

Taking the first step is easy. Call (214) 227-2220 to schedule a free consultation with Attorney Monica Bohuslav or Attorney Patrick J. Carew. Their office, located at 2540 E University Dr Suite B, McKinney, TX 75069, welcomes walk-ins and appointments from anyone in the North Texas region.

During your consultation, they’ll ask about the details of your accident, your injuries, and the challenges you’re facing. Then they’ll explain how a contingency fee arrangement works, outline the potential timeline for resolving your claim, and address any questions about possible recovery. With this knowledge, you can make an informed decision and feel more at ease about your next steps.

A dog bite can turn a peaceful evening in your Springfield bungalow or Chicago North Side condo into a rush of fear, medical bills, and hard questions. Illinois imposes strict liability on dog owners, and the state logged 837 insurance claims totaling $61.8 million in 2023—one of the highest tallies in the nation. Knowing which policy steps up first helps you protect your loved ones and your finances.

What Insurance Covers a Dog Bite at Home in Illinois?

Your homeowner’s or renter’s liability coverage almost always handles injuries your dog causes on your property. These policies pay third-party medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering, and even your legal fees—up to the stated limit, typically $100,000 – $300,000. A small “medical payments” provision (often $1,000 – $5,000) can cover urgent care quickly without assigning fault. Health, life, or disability insurance do not pay liability damages; they protect the injured person directly, not the dog owner.

Does Illinois Law Hold Dog Owners Strictly Liable for Bites?

Yes—under 510 ILCS 5/16, you are responsible whenever your dog injures someone who is lawfully on public land or on your property and who did not provoke the animal. Illinois rejected the old “one-bite rule,” so the victim never has to prove you knew the dog was dangerous. You have two years from the incident to settle or file suit, and state law requires reporting the bite to local animal control within 24 hours.

How Do Homeowners and Renters Policies Handle Dog-Bite Claims?

After emergency care, the victim sends medical bills and other losses to your insurer. The carrier investigates, negotiates, and pays up to the liability limit—about $48,000 per claim on average in Illinois. If costs exceed the limit, the unpaid balance becomes your personal responsibility unless you have additional coverage. Because many dog-bite injuries involve facial scarring, reconstructive surgery, and counseling, maxing out a policy is common.

Typical claim flow

• Victim’s attorney sends a demand package to your carrier.
• Adjuster reviews fault, provocation, and breed exclusions.
• Settlement is reached or the case proceeds to court.

What If Medical Bills Exceed the Policy Limit?

An umbrella liability policy adds $1 million + in coverage once the underlying homeowner or renter limit is exhausted. Severe wounds, multiple surgeries, or lifelong care can trigger this extra layer. Owners of large or “high-risk” breeds often buy umbrella or stand-alone animal liability coverage for peace of mind.

How Do Breed Exclusions Affect Your Coverage?

Many insurers refuse or restrict coverage for pit bulls, Rottweilers, German Shepherds, Dobermans, and similar breeds. If your policy excludes your dog, a claim may be denied outright. Failing to disclose the breed when you buy insurance can be treated as fraud and void the policy. Your options include:

• Shop carriers with friendlier underwriting.
• Buy specialty pet-liability insurance.
• Add a high-limit umbrella that accepts all breeds.

Without coverage, every dollar of damages comes from your pocket.

What Steps Should You Take Immediately After a Dog Bite?

1. Seek medical care. Prompt treatment prevents infection and documents the injury.
2. Report the bite. Call animal control and arrange the required vet check within 24 hours.
3. Document everything. Photograph wounds, save medical bills, and gather witness names from the porch on I-88 in Naperville to the basement in a Springfield suburb.
4. Notify insurance. Contact your carrier; honesty speeds coverage.
5. Avoid statements. Do not admit fault, and the victim should not accept early low offers.
6. Consult an attorney. Serious injuries merit legal guidance on damages and deadlines.

Which Bite Scenarios Are Common—and Which Are Rare—in Illinois Homes?

• Neighbor or invited guest in your living room: Homeowner liability applies.
• Child reaches toward dog’s food bowl in a Chicago townhouse: Still covered, though supervising pets around kids is wise.
• Delivery driver stepping off the porch: Covered; postal carriers are frequent Illinois claimants.
• Contractor repairing a sump pump in your Springfield basement: Covered; workers’ comp may pay first, but liability still attaches.
• Roommate’s overnight guest bitten while asleep: Covered because the guest had permission to be there.
• Dog lunges from your yard onto a public sidewalk near North Lake Shore Drive: Liability coverage follows the dog; location does not defeat the claim.

Unusual cases—such as a bite inside your SUV, a nipped UPS driver climbing out of the truck, or a playdate mishap at a Naperville cul-de-sac—are also generally paid through homeowner or renter liability.

What Can You Do If the Insurance Company Denies the Claim?

Denials usually hinge on breed exclusions, alleged provocation, or missing paperwork. Read the policy carefully, supply any missing records, and contest errors in writing. Even if the carrier refuses to pay, Illinois courts can still hold you personally liable for all damages, so exploring other policies or settlement funds remains critical.

How Can Illinois Dog Owners Avoid Coverage Gaps Before a Bite Happens?

Review your policy at least annually—think of it like changing your clocks for daylight-saving time. Disclose every dog and breed honestly, raise liability limits if children often visit, and price umbrella or pet-liability policies before hosting summer barbecues in Naperville or birthday parties along Route 66 in Springfield. Renters should carry their own liability protection even when a landlord also has coverage.

What Legal Remedies and Next Steps Are Available to Bite Victims?

Victims may sue under Illinois’s strict-liability statute for medical costs, lost wages, pain, scarring, and emotional trauma. Most claims settle directly with the insurer, but if negotiations fail, a personal-injury lawsuit must be filed within two years. Attorneys typically work on contingency, meaning no upfront fees for the injured person. Early legal help preserves evidence and maximizes compensation.

Remember

Homeowner or renter liability insurance is the first—and often best—source of payment when someone is bitten inside your Illinois home. Strict liability law, high average payouts, and frequent claims make proactive coverage essential. By disclosing your dog, choosing the right limits, and acting quickly after an incident, you protect both the injured person’s recovery and your family’s financial future.

A serious wreck anywhere in Springfield—whether on I-55, I-72, Veterans Parkway, or a quiet neighborhood street—can leave you hurt, worried about bills, and confused about the next step. Springfield car accident lawyer Sarah Noll and fellow trial attorney Daniel Noll dedicate their practice at Noll Law Office to protecting injured drivers and passengers throughout Sangamon County. With deep Illinois roots and years inside local courtrooms, these attorneys understand the traffic patterns, the juries, and the insurance tactics unique to central Illinois.

Both lawyers personally handle every case from day one, giving clients the individual attention large firms often lack. They have cultivated relationships with area medical providers, accident-reconstruction experts, and courthouse staff, allowing them to move cases forward quickly and strategically. If you or a loved one has questions after a crash, call (217) 414-8889 today and speak directly with a lawyer—free of charge and without obligation.

How Do I Find a Car Accident Lawyer in Springfield, IL?

Start With Local Research

Begin by searching phrases such as “Springfield, IL car accident lawyer,” “Sangamon County crash attorney,” or “auto accident lawyer near me.” Review only those firms that prominently feature motor-vehicle injury work and maintain an office near the Sangamon County Courthouse, like ours on E Monroe Street. A convenient location makes in-person meetings, document drops, and court filings faster and less stressful for clients.

Verify Case Experience

Ask specific questions about prior collisions similar to yours—rear-end crashes on Veterans Parkway, head-on collisions on rural Route 97, or multi-car pile-ups during winter fog on I-55. Daniel Noll, Springfield auto-accident attorney, can outline verdicts and settlements from rollover, drunk-driving, and uninsured-motorist claims across central Illinois. Experience with your crash type means the lawyer already knows which experts to hire and which defenses insurers typically raise.

Review Credentials and Fee Structure

Confirm that each lawyer is in good standing with the Illinois State Bar and that no disciplinary actions exist. Reputable Springfield personal-injury attorneys at Noll Law Office work on a contingency-fee basis—meaning legal fees come from the recovery, not your pocket—and they gladly explain how costs are advanced and repaid. Finally, schedule a free consultation to see whether communication style and availability match your expectations.

Why Should I Hire a Springfield Car Accident Attorney After a Crash?

Level the Playing Field With Insurers

Insurance companies train adjusters to minimize payouts through scripted calls and early, lowball offers that rarely cover long-term needs. Sarah Noll, Springfield car-wreck lawyer, pushes back by collecting scene photos, dash-cam footage, and black-box data before critical evidence disappears. Detailed demand packages and aggressive negotiation prevent insurers from dictating the value of your claim.

Navigate Illinois Personal-Injury Law

Illinois applies a modified comparative-fault rule, so even a modest shift in percentage fault can erase thousands of dollars. The Sangamon County accident attorneys at Noll Law Office use accident-reconstruction experts and subpoenaed cell-phone records to rebut blame-shifting tactics. They also track every statutory deadline, ensuring lawsuits and notices are filed well before the statute of limitations expires.

Secure the Full Measure of Damages

Emergency care is just the start: surgeries, physical therapy, lost retirement contributions, and mental-health counseling often follow. Springfield vehicle-collision attorney Daniel Noll calculates lifetime economic impact with economists and vocational experts so future costs are not ignored. He then presents non-economic harms—like chronic pain and loss of enjoyment of hobbies—to maximize total compensation.

What Types of Car Accident Cases Does Noll Law Office Handle?

Common Crashes

• Rear-end impacts during rush hour on Veterans Parkway
• Intersection T-bone collisions at Monroe Street and 5th Street
• Head-on wrecks on two-lane roads outside Chatham and Auburn
• Multi-vehicle pile-ups on I-72 during heavy fog or ice
• DUI, speeding, or distracted-driving crashes across Springfield

Complex or Uncommon Crashes

• Rideshare (Uber/Lyft) injury claims involving multiple policies
• Uninsured- and underinsured-motorist litigation under Illinois UM/UIM statutes
• Commercial truck jack-knife accidents and delivery-van impacts
• Bus or school-bus collisions affecting passengers or other motorists
• Road-defect cases over faulty traffic signals, poor lighting, or potholes
• Product-liability claims for tire blowouts, brake failures, or air-bag malfunctions
• Pedestrian and bicycle injuries near Capitol Avenue or the Lincoln Museum

What Should I Do Immediately After a Springfield Car Accident?

1. Call 911. Request police and medical responders even if injuries seem minor.
2. Report the crash to Springfield Police or the Sangamon County Sheriff; a formal report preserves facts and diagrams.
3. Document the scene by photographing vehicle positions, skid marks, debris, weather, and nearby signage.
4. Exchange information—driver licenses, insurance cards, and plate numbers—and gather statements and contacts from witnesses.
5. Seek prompt medical treatment, because delayed care gives insurers room to dispute causation.
6. Notify your insurer briefly; decline recorded statements until legal counsel is present.
7. Consult a lawyer like Springfield car-crash attorney Sarah Noll before accepting any settlement or signing releases.

What Compensation Can I Recover After a Car Accident in Illinois?

Economic Damages

• Emergency transport, hospitalization, surgery, and follow-up care
• Physical therapy, occupational therapy, and long-term rehabilitation
• Prescription medications, medical devices, and in-home modifications
• Current lost wages, future lost earning capacity, and diminished fringe benefits
• Vehicle repair or replacement, towing, and rental-car costs

Non-Economic Damages

• Pain and suffering, both immediate and chronic
• Emotional distress, anxiety, depression, and sleep disruption
• Loss of enjoyment of family life, hobbies, and social activities
• Permanent scarring, disfigurement, or disability impacting self-esteem

Punitive Damages

Courts may award punitive damages when the defendant’s conduct demonstrates willful or wanton disregard for safety, such as extreme speeding or drunk driving. Illinois imposes no caps on compensatory awards, and only your share of comparative fault can reduce the total.

Can I Recover Damages if I Was Partially at Fault?

Yes. Under Illinois’ 51 percent rule, you remain eligible for compensation if judged 50 percent or less responsible. For example, a driver found 25 percent at fault still collects 75 percent of the proven damages. The Springfield car-accident lawyers at Noll Law Office gather dash-cam videos, EDR (“black-box”) data, and expert analyses to keep your fault assignment as low as facts permit.

How Long Do I Have to File a Claim in Illinois?

Most personal-injury lawsuits arising from motor-vehicle collisions must be filed within two years of the crash date. Property-damage claims carry a five-year limit, and suits against public agencies may require notice in a matter of months. Missing any deadline results in automatic dismissal. Protect your rights today by contacting Springfield accident lawyer Daniel Noll as soon as possible.

How Much Does It Cost to Hire a Car Accident Lawyer?

No Recovery, No Fee. Sarah Noll, Springfield personal-injury attorney, and Daniel Noll advance filing fees, investigation costs, and expert-witness expenses so financial barriers never block justice. Their contingency fee—generally one-third of the final settlement or verdict—is paid only after money reaches the client. If no recovery occurs, you owe nothing for attorney time or out-of-pocket expenditures.

How Do I Choose the Best Car Accident Attorney for Me?

Key Factors

• Local trial experience before Sangamon County juries
• Documented results in six- and seven-figure ranges
• Direct lawyer access—meet Sarah or Daniel, not a case manager
• Clear communication with 24-hour callback policy
• Professional recognition in Illinois legal publications

Questions to Ask During Consultations

• How many cases like mine have you resolved this year?
• Will you personally handle negotiations and court appearances?
• Which medical or accident-reconstruction experts will you enlist?
• How frequently will you update me on progress?
• What is your strategy for maximizing non-economic damages?

How Sarah and Daniel Noll Help With Your Springfield Car Accident Case

Hands-On Representation

Sarah Noll and Daniel Noll perform every critical task themselves—from preserving evidence and interviewing witnesses to drafting pleadings and arguing motions. Clients are never passed to junior associates or remote contractors.

Local Insight and Resources

The firm’s familiarity with Sangamon County judges, mediators, and defense counsel provides strategic advantages in scheduling, settlement talks, and trial presentation. Decades of working with regional physicians and physical therapists ensure clients receive appropriate treatment and complete records for strong evidence.

Accessible and Bilingual Service

Noll Law Office offers Spanish-language consultations and scheduling outside traditional office hours, recognizing that injuries disrupt work and family life. A 24/7 phone line means urgent questions are answered promptly, even on weekends and holidays.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I Need a Lawyer for a Minor Crash?

Low-speed impacts can still cause whiplash, concussions, or hidden soft-tissue injuries whose symptoms develop days later. Early legal guidance prevents insurers from closing the claim before true costs surface.

What If the Other Driver Is Uninsured?

Illinois requires every auto policy to carry uninsured-motorist (UM) coverage equal to bodily-injury limits. Springfield uninsured-motorist attorneys at Noll Law Office pursue UM claims, excess liability suits, and potential third-party defendants such as vehicle owners or employers.

How Long Does a Claim Take?

Straightforward cases with clear liability and completed medical treatment may settle in four to six months. Disputed-fault or catastrophic-injury claims often take a year or more, especially if a lawsuit and formal discovery are required. Prompt evidence preservation and proactive negotiation shorten timelines.

Meet Your Springfield Car Accident Lawyers

Daniel Noll

Trial attorney since 2001 and former insurance-defense counsel. Fluent in Spanish and experienced in complex litigation, he is known for courtroom agility and million-dollar results.

Sarah Noll

Admitted in 2003 with an insurance-defense background that provides insight into carrier tactics. She is praised for empathy, meticulous evidence management, and relentless advocacy on behalf of Springfield crash victims.

Take the Next Step Today

One conversation can set your recovery in motion. Reach out to Springfield car accident lawyers Sarah Noll and Daniel Noll and learn—at no cost—exactly how the law protects you after a crash.

Call Noll Law Office at (217) 414-8889 right now or submit our secure online form. A lawyer answers 24/7 and can meet at our downtown office, your home, the hospital, or by video chat—whatever is