What to Do After a Car Crash in Houston: Legal Tips from a Personal Injury Lawyer
Car accidents happen suddenly. Screeching tires, crash, and shock take you by surprise. If you are in a car accident in Houston, how you react initially will win or lose your case. It is a matter of being intelligent and acting promptly. It is all about safeguarding your rights and your future. This is a Houston personal injury lawyer guide to what to do following an accident, how to deal with insurance companies, and when to contact an attorney.
1. Remain Calm and Inspect for Injuries
Safety always in the case of a motor vehicle collision. Check yourself and others for injury. If somebody is injured, dial 911 right away. Never move an injured person unless there is burning or traffic. If you are injured or dazed, remain where you are until help comes to you. Whiplash or internal bleeding will not be apparent in most collisions. Seeking medical attention immediately may save your life and claim.
2. Clear the Road
If your car is on the road and you can safely move it, clear the road. Hazard lights. Do not move through crowded lanes and await the police. If you are unable to relocate the vehicle, stay with it in your seatbelt until help comes. This keeps you further away from traffic.
3. Call Police and Get a Report
Document every accident. Even a minor accident, a police report confirms what happened. Police officers document where the accident happened, interview drivers, and determine likely fault parties. Get a report number, badge number, and officer’s name. You will need it for insurance purposes and your attorney later.
4. Photograph Evidence at the Scene
Photograph and video where you can. Photograph damage to vehicles, road conditions, skid marks, and traffic devices. Get names, phone numbers, and insurance from both individuals. Get contact information from witnesses too. They can make statements later if there is any disagreement about what happened. Lock everything up which is evidence. Avoid posting information or photos on the internet—these are tracked by insurers.
5. Get Medical Care—Even If You’re Not Hurt
There are some injuries which cannot be detected for hours or days. Pain, headache, or stiffness can be minor but can mean something critical. Make it to urgent care or your doctor sooner rather than later. Your doctor’s note links your damages to the accident. That is what will count to get a good settlement.
6. Report To Your Insurance Company
Notify your insurance company right away. Give them the essentials: date, time, location, and the other party’s details. Don’t chat too much. Refrain from apologizing or guessing what happened. Your own words will be used by insurance adjusters to downsize your claim.
7. Consult a Houston Personal Injury Lawyer
Negotiating with the insurance companies following an accident is stressful. The adjusters offer low settlements or don’t pay. Your personal injury lawyer can negotiate on your behalf and protect your rights. Attorneys understand Texas traffic laws, fault doctrines, and approximations of damages. Attorneys help get medical records, settle the case, and, if necessary, file a lawsuit. Generally you don’t pay in advance—most work on contingency fee, so they won’t get paid if you don’t.
8. Learn about Texas Fault and Compensation Laws
Texas is a “fault” state. The party at fault pays for the damages.
You can recover for:
- Medical expenses
- Lost time
- Auto repairs
- Pain and suffering
Even if you are partially responsible, you might still recover if you were less than 51% responsible. Your attorney can establish the fault percentage of both drivers.
9. Don’t Rush a Settlement
Insurance companies will be eager to settle quickly. Don’t settle unless you are sure about the extent of your injuries. The moment you sign a release, you can never sue further. Let your doctor release you and your lawyer pay all the bills.
10. Keep All Records
Maintain all the information of the accident—doctor bills, estimates on your car to fix it, doctor reports, and interactions with insurance adjusters. They document your case and enable your lawyer to establish a strong case.
11. Be Careful What You Say
What you do upon crashing could make a difference. Apologize for errors at the time of the crash or online. Tell the truth when talking to police and insurance appraisers. An Error. Careless words like “I’m sorry” can be spoken and construed as an admission. Let your lawyer talk if the case is to be litigated.
12. Know Time Limits
You have two years from when the accident happened to bring a personal injury action in Texas. Waiting too long will cost you your entitlement to compensation. Get to see an attorney as soon as possible after the accident so that you remain on course.
13. Avoid Costly Missteps
- Don’t wait to get medical attention.
- Don’t settle too early.
- Don’t give recorded statements without an attorney.
- Don’t downplay minor pain and emotional distress.
- Do not hesitate to obtain the services of an attorney.
Following these easy steps safeguard your claim and improve your possibility of recovery.
14. How An Attorney Redefines Your Claim
Schechter, Shaffer & Harris, LLP – Accident & Injury Attorneys knows how to handle difficult insurers. They gather evidence, interview witnesses, review police reports, and calculate losses. They owe you back each dollar you are owed for medical care, lost time, and pain. An attorney seems to receive bigger settlements and less hassle.
FAQs On What To Do If You’re Involved In A Car Accident In Houston
- Do I need an attorney for a minor car accident?
Yes, sometimes. Several small fender benders can cause injury or hidden auto damage. Your situation can be reviewed and whether or not to file a claim can be decided by an attorney.
- How long do I have to report a car wreck in Houston?
Bad wrecks should be reported to the police as soon as possible. Insurance companies will usually have notice requirements within a limited number of days. Always check your policy for deadlines.
- What if the other individual is not covered by insurance?
You can collect under your uninsured motorist coverage. An attorney can also investigate to see if there are other liable parties, e.g., owner of vehicle or employer.
- How is fault assigned after an accident?
Police reports, statements from witnesses, and video statements are all on the table to be considered. Insurance adjusters and lawyers go through them in attempts to calculate percentages of fault according to Texas law.
- What do I bring to my initial attorney consultation?
Pack your police report, medical receipts, photographs, insurance information, and any notes you have written down. The more you bring with you, the quicker your attorney can start building your case.
Final Thought
Justice and recovery are all that matter after a Houston car accident. Act beforehand—stay safe, get a doctor, take pictures, and call an experienced Houston car accident lawyer. Take action now to save your health, your money, and your rights.
