Car accidents are a familiar occurrence on the roads of Houston, Texas. Based on the Texas Department of Transportation’s data, there were 65,248 motor vehicle crashes in Houston in 2018.
If you find yourself involved in a car accident in Houston, it’s essential to take the right steps to ensure your safety and protect your legal rights.
No matter who is at fault, getting into a car accident can be scary and traumatizing. After the dust has settled and everyone is safe, it is important to take the necessary actions to ensure that all legal and financial issues are taken care of.
Steps to take after getting into a car accident in Houston:
Step 1: Check for Injuries
Checking for injuries is the most crucial step to take after a car accident. It’s important to remember that some injuries may not be immediately apparent, so it’s essential to be vigilant and thorough in your assessment.
Here are some tips to help you check for injuries after a car accident:
● Assess Yourself
Take a moment to assess yourself for injuries. Check for any pain, discomfort, or unusual sensations. If you feel fine, it’s still a good idea to seek medical attention to ensure that there are no underlying injuries.
● Assess Passengers
Check on any passengers in your vehicle and assess them for injuries. If anyone is injured, call 911 immediately and seek medical attention.
● Move to a Safe Location
If possible, move your vehicle to a safe location away from oncoming traffic. This will help to prevent any further accidents or injuries.
● Call 911
If anyone is injured, call 911 immediately and seek medical attention. Even if no one is injured, it’s a good idea to call the police and report the accident.
The police will document the accident and file a police report, which can be helpful when filing a claim with your insurance company.
Step 2: Call the Police
If there are no injuries, call the Houston Police Department to report the accident. It’s essential to have an official police report of the accident, as it will help with insurance claims and legal proceedings.
When the police arrive, provide them with your driver’s license, registration, and insurance information. If you’re unable to provide your documentation, don’t worry, you can provide it later.
Step 3: Exchange Information with the Other Driver
Exchange information with the other driver involved in the accident, including their name, address, phone number, insurance company, policy number, and license plate number.
It’s encouraged to gather as much information as possible to ensure that you can file an insurance claim and protect your legal rights.
Step 4: Document the Accident Scene
Documenting the accident scene is crucial after a car accident. It can help you to establish liability and prove fault, which is essential when dealing with insurance companies and legal proceedings.
Below are some tips to help you document the accident scene:
● Take Photos of the Scene
Take photos of the accident scene, including the damage to your vehicle and the other driver’s vehicle. Be sure to take photos from multiple angles and distances. If there are any skid marks or debris on the road, take photos of those as well.
● Take Photos of Injuries
If you or any passengers have suffered injuries, take photos of those as well. This includes any cuts, bruises, or other visible injuries. These photos can help to document your injuries and prove that they were a result of the accident.
● Take Notes
Take notes about what happened leading up to the accident. Write down the date, time, and location of the accident, as well as the weather and road conditions. Also, write down the names and contact information of any witnesses.
Step 5: Seek Medical Attention
Even if you feel fine after the accident, it’s essential to seek medical attention. Some injuries may not show up immediately, and it’s better to be safe than sorry.
Some injuries may not show up until a few days after the accident. Seeking medical attention will also help document your injuries for insurance claims and legal proceedings.
Step 6: Contact Your Insurance Company
Reach out to your insurance company right away to report the accident. Provide them with all the information you’ve gathered, including the police report and photos of the accident scene.
Your insurance company will instruct you on the claims process and help you understand your coverage.
Step 7: Consult with an Attorney
An experienced attorney can help you understand your legal rights after a car accident. They can explain the legal process and guide you through the claims process.
They can also advise you on your options and help you make wise decisions about your case.
An accident attorney can negotiate a settlement that reflects the true value of your injuries. They can calculate the damages you’ve suffered, including medical bills, lost wages, and future medical costs.
They can also negotiate with the other driver’s insurance company and ensure that you receive a fair settlement.
If your case goes to court, an attorney can represent you and argue your case in front of a judge and jury. They can present evidence, cross-examine witnesses, and argue on your behalf.
They will ensure that all legal procedures are followed correctly and that your rights are protected.
In addition, dealing with insurance companies can be daunting, especially after a car accident. Insurance companies are in business to earn an income, and they can attempt to refute your claim or make a low settlement offer to you.
An attorney can assist you in dealing with insurance companies and negotiating a settlement that is fair and just.
Conclusion
Even though being in a car accident can be a frightening event, following the appropriate procedures can help to preserve your safety and legal rights. By taking these actions, you may make sure you are compensated for your damages and get over the accident.
AK Law Firm is here to assist if you need a trusted accident attorney in Houston, TX. Our personal injury attorneys are dedicated to assisting you in receiving the compensation you deserve. We only charge when we win your case, so don’t hesitate to call us for help!
