At The Button Law Firm, we’ve seen firsthand how life can change in an instant after a serious car wreck. Our experiences handling auto collision cases gave us a unique perspective to share with a group of creative writing students from the University of Texas at Dallas.
Their visit wasn’t about legal strategy or case law—it was about understanding the human side of trauma, recovery, and how stories from the road shape people’s lives.
A Creative Lens on Transportation and Trauma
The students were part of a graduate- and Ph.D.-level creative writing course centered on transit, transportation, and the ways people experience movement through infrastructure. As they explored the personal and societal impacts of these systems, they sought conversations with professionals who’ve seen the consequences up close.
That curiosity led them to our Dallas office, where we were honored to host them for a thoughtful and deeply human conversation.
A Look Into Life After a Wreck
Russell Button welcomed the group and offered insights into what people often go through after a serious wreck, from the initial shock to the physical, emotional, and financial hurdles that follow. Drawing from past cases and client stories, he highlighted the realities that don’t always make it into police reports or news headlines.
The discussion touched on everything from insurance disputes and delays in recovery to the deep emotional toll these events leave behind. It wasn’t about the legal nuts and bolts but about understanding people’s lived experiences.
Stories That Stay With You
Russell shared stories from former clients whose lives had been impacted by negligent drivers, unsafe conditions, and slow-to-respond systems. These stories brought the law to life for the students, helping them better understand the ripple effects of a traumatic wreck.
Revisiting these stories reminded us of the importance of empathy and the power of storytelling to give voice to those navigating life after loss or injury.
Where Creative Writing Meets Real-World Experience
What made this visit so special was the shared recognition that stories—whether told in a courtroom or on the page—have the ability to shift perspectives and foster change. The students came looking for inspiration and insight, but the exchange was mutual.
We left the conversation feeling reenergized about the importance of compassion, context, and connection in every aspect of advocacy.
Honored to Share Our Perspective
We’re incredibly grateful to the students and faculty from UT Dallas for taking the time to visit and for bringing their curiosity, thoughtfulness, and creative lens into our space.
At The Button Law Firm, we believe in using our voices and experience to help others understand the systems that affect real people every day. Our foundation is built on advocating for those who have been harmed, and that mission still drives us.
Looking Ahead
We can’t wait to see how these students bring their creative projects to life and continue to explore important stories through writing. Whether through a legal claim or a powerful piece of prose, voices impacted by trauma deserve to be heard—and we’re proud to have played a small part in amplifying those voices.
