Automobile accidents happen every single day in Houston. What steps to take if you’re injured in an accident can be extremely helpful for your claim. Whether you are dealing with an injury claim, trying to get your car fixed, or talking with an experienced attorney, they can provide helpful advice to help you with your insurance claims.
This article is written by Houston car accident lawyer Greg Baumgartner, who has over 40 years of experience in helping families maximize their injury claims.
The First Steps After a Car Wreck
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Focus on Safety
After any car accident, safety is the priority. Make sure you are safe, and others are as well. If you can move your vehicle to a safe situation and get others out of danger, do so as soon as you can. Pulling off the road or to a safe location should only be done if you can do so without endangering yourself. Make sure you turn on your hazard lights, and if you have warning triangles, use those too.
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Check Everyone For Injuries
If you’re unsure whether medical treatment may be necessary, call 911 and request medical assistance. Always err on the side of safety. Even if the injuries do not look serious, seeking medical attention as soon as possible is recommended.
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Call the Police
In Texas, if the property damage exceeds $1,000 or someone has been injured, you must report the accident to law enforcement. We suggest contacting the police whenever possible to document the cause of the accident and report factual observations. We are open and honest with the police and tell them exactly what happened from your perspective.
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Exchange Information with the Other Driver
Make sure you obtain the insurance information, a photograph of the other driver’s license, and the license plate numbers, names, phone numbers, and addresses of all parties involved. This will make the insurance claim process go much more smoothly. Many people rely on officers to obtain that information, but we suggest you do so yourself as well.
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Get Witness Contact Information
Police officers often do not record eyewitnesses’ contact information. And eyewitness accounts can be the strongest evidence available in a personal injury claim. If you can, request a short 30-second video from your cell phone of the witness telling their name, phone number, and what they saw.
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The Injured Should Get Checked Out by a Doctor
After an accident, it is a smart move. Not only will your caution help discover medical issues you may not be aware of, but it will also serve to document your injuries for an insurance claim.
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Save Evidence
It may be helpful for your case. Evidence can include medical records, repair estimates, invoices for vehicle repairs, and even documents from the insurance company or their legal representatives. When in doubt, save everything.
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Talk With an Experienced Attorney
Lawyers offer free consultations for injury victims. Take advantage of a free case consultation or evaluation. You can learn your rights, explore your options, and plan your next steps if you are considering making an insurance claim.
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Understand Your Rights
Dealing with an adjuster who is trained to pay as little as possible can be challenging. Be prepared to negotiate if handling the case yourself, or delegate all contact to your attorney if you retain one.
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Watch Out for Quick Lowball Offers
One tactic often used by insurance adjusters is to make an early settlement offer, particularly in clear liability cases. Insurance companies often make these offers before you know the extent of your injuries. Unfortunately, if you agree to an acceptable settlement amount, even if it’s overly generous, you may well be bound by it even if you find out later that your injuries are much more serious than you thought.
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If you are Going to Hire an Attorney, do so ASAP
The sooner you hire an attorney, the better for your case. Many people do not understand the claims process or the damage they can do to their case by trying to handle it themselves. In the end, they may receive much less money. If you’re going to get a lawyer, do so as soon as you can.
FAQs
What should I do first after a car accident in Houston?
Ensure Safety: If possible, move yourself and others out of harm’s way, turn on hazard lights, and set up warning triangles or flares.
Should I call 911 after a car accident, even if there are no serious injuries?
Yes: It’s crucial to call 911 to report the accident, especially if injuries or property damage exceed $1,000.
What information should I exchange with the other parties involved?
Exchange Information: Obtain names, phone numbers, addresses, driver’s license numbers, license plate numbers, insurance policy details, and vehicle make and model information.
Is it necessary to document the accident scene?
Yes: Take photographs of the accident scene, vehicles involved, damages, road conditions, and any visible injuries. This documentation can be valuable for insurance claims and legal proceedings.
When should I contact my insurance company?
Notify your insurance company promptly after the accident and provide accurate details to avoid complications with your claim.
Should I seek medical attention even if I feel fine after the accident?
Yes: It’s advisable to undergo a medical evaluation, as some injuries may not be immediately apparent. Documenting injuries and medical treatment is crucial for insurance claims and legal purposes.
Why is preserving evidence important?
To Strengthen Your Case: Preserving evidence such as medical records, repair estimates, and correspondence with insurance companies supports your claims and strengthens your case.
When should I consider consulting with an attorney?
Depending on the circumstances, if you’re unsure about your rights, need legal guidance, or anticipate complications with your claim, consulting with a car accident attorney in Houston may be beneficial.
What should I do if I’m partially at fault for the accident?
Understand Legal Obligations: Texas follows a modified comparative fault system, meaning your compensation may be reduced if you’re partially at fault. Understanding your rights and responsibilities is essential in seeking compensation for damages.
What are alternative dispute resolution methods, and when should I consider them?
Mediation or Arbitration: These methods offer less adversarial approaches to resolving disputes and can result in quicker resolutions compared to litigation. Consider them if you prefer a more collaborative process.
Why should I be cautious with social media after a car accident?
To Protect Your Claims: Insurance companies and opposing parties may use your social media activity to discredit your claims or diminish your compensation. Refrain from discussing the accident or injuries online.
What are statutes of limitations, and why are they important?
Time Limits for Filing Claims: Texas statutes of limitations set strict deadlines for filing personal injury claims arising from car accidents. Missing these deadlines could result in the loss of your right to seek compensation.
Contact the Car Accident Lawyer in Houston at Baumgartner Law Firm for Help
Contact the Houston personal injury law firm of Baumgartner Law Firm at (281) 587-1111.
6711 Cypress Creek Pkwy
Houston, TX, 77069
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