Car accidents are bewildering and disorienting. Injuries, repairs to your vehicle, and calls from the insurance company can leave anyone dazed. What to do right after the accident can help safeguard your rights and your well-being. A Houston car accident lawyer can guide you. This is a step-by-step guide to do in the event of a car accident. This also shows how your lawyer will present your case and the possibility of obtaining a fair settlement.
Step 1: Check Injuries and Call 911
Safety first. Make sure of your own and others’ injuries. Even if you’re okay, dial 911. Some injuries are not visible for hours. Emergency responders will have someone visit you immediately and make an official report. Police reports come a long way in the case of injury claims. The police officer will take information which you can use in your claim. Never forget to call the police even in small accidents.
Step 2: Move to Safety
If your car is blocking traffic, get it off the road. Activate hazard lights. Use flares or cones if available. Staying in a hazard position can cause another accident. Always put safety first. Property damages can be fixed, but lives can’t.
Step 3: Exchange Information
Make sure you get the other driver’s name, phone, license number, and insurance. Give it to them, too. Be nice and calm. Don’t fight with them over who’s at fault. Anything you say can come back to bite you. Get witness contact info as well. Their statements can be beneficial in helping your case.
Step 4: Document the Scene
Use your cell phone to take pictures and videos. Take photos of auto damage, skid marks, traffic signs, and road conditions. Document your injuries too. Good photo evidence is better when filing a claim. If you are not able to take photos, have a witness or friend do it for you.
Step 5: Obtain Medical Attention
Don’t delay in seeking medical care. Whiplash and head trauma don’t always show up right away. The physician’s report links the accident to your injury. Insurance firms reject claims when you don’t seek treatment. Follow the doctor’s orders and keep all documents. These documents verify cost and injury.
Step 6: Inform Your Insurance Company
Call your insurer right after the crash. Tell them plain facts only and do not admit. Insurance adjusters will look for loopholes to reduce payments. Your lawyer can negotiate contact with insurers to protect you against sneaky tricks.
Step 7: Keep Records
Keep all medical bills, repair estimates, and lost work records. Put papers in one folder. Written proof of expenses allows you to claim full compensation. Even small costs like ride to appointments can add up. Hold on to everything.
Step 8: Talk to a Houston Personal Injury Lawyer
After an accident, most victims are offered low settlements. Insurers prefer fast payments to save money. An attorney evens the playing field.
An attorney can:
- Evaluate your case and explain your rights.
- Collect evidence to prove fault.
- Negotiate with insurers.
- Go to a lawsuit if needed.
- Seek damages for medical bills, lost wages, pain, and future care.
The sooner you hire an attorney, the stronger your case.
Step 9: Don’t Post on Social Media
There are a lot of people who brag about wrecks on social media. This will hurt your case. Insurance adjusters routinely check social media for evidence against you. Even a harmless picture or post can be used against you. Don’t talk about your wreck until sanctioned by your attorney.
Step 10: Obey Legal Guidance
Your lawyer will tell you what to do and not to do. Listen to them. Texas law imposes tight time limits on filing a lawsuit. Not following these deadlines can deny you your rightful chance at justice. Your lawyer prevents you from filing too late and breaking the bank.
Why Hire an Attorney in the Houston Area?
Car accident laws vary state to state. A Houston personal injury lawyer is versed in the Texas statute and local court procedures. They understand what the local insurers and judges do with cases. Local knowledge generates better cases and better results.
How Long Do You Have to File a Claim in Texas?
Texas statute makes available a two-year statute of limitations in which to file personal injury suits. That is from the date of the accident. You will lose your right to sue if you do not abide. You can have your case filed before too late by obtaining the services of an attorney.
What Are You Entitled To Following an Auto Accident?
Victims of injury are entitled to:
- Past and future medical expenses.
- Lost wages for lost time from work.
- Reduced ability to earn in the future.
- Pain and suffering.
- Vehicular repair or replacement.
Estimated value differs. Each case is unique. Each hinges on the severity of injury, medical needs, and fault.
Frequently Asked Questions about Automobile Accidents and Attorneys in Houston
1. Do I need an attorney for a minor car accident?
Yes, when it comes to injuries or fault disagreements. A lawyer guarantees fair treatment and payment of fees you might not even notice.
2. How much is a Houston personal injury lawyer going to cost?
The majority charge on a contingency basis. You pay nothing if you lose. The attorney fee is a percentage of your award.
3. Do I have to deal with the other party’s insurance company?
No. Speak with your lawyer first. Adjusters will distort your testimony to deny or reduce your claim.
4. What if the other vehicle isn’t insured?
You have the right to make a claim from your uninsured motorist coverage. A lawyer may also investigate legal recourse against the driver.
5. How long will my automobile accident case take?
That depends on the severity of the injury, response of insurance, and court delays. Cases are resolved within months in some instances. It takes longer if there is a need for trial.
Final Thoughts
A car accident can turn your life around within seconds. Proper action following an accident secures health and legal rights. Medical treatment, reporting of accidents, and proper representation by a Houston personal injury lawyer ensures fair compensation. Don’t face it alone. A skilled attorney battles for you as you recover.
