The 5 most important things to do after a car accident in Texas
To preserve your right to bring a personal injury claim if you have been involved in a car accident in Texas, there are 5 important steps you should take:
1. Call police to the scene of the accident: An accident report is critical evidence that can be used to support your Texas personal injury claim. You should call the police even if you believe the accident was “minor.” Severe injuries and serious damage to your vehicle may not become apparent until days or even weeks after the accident has occurred. Bringing police to the scene of your Texas car accident guarantees that there will be an official record of how the accident occurred, who was involved and any witnesses that may have been present.
2. Gather as much information as possible: Again, even a seemingly minor accident can have major consequences. Before you leave the scene of the accident, gather as much evidence as you possibly can. You need all of the other driver’s contact information, including their insurance information, as well as the contact information for witnesses. Take lots of pictures of both your injuries and the damage to your vehicle before you have your vehicle repaired.
3. Get immediate medical attention: To prove your personal injury claim, you need documented records of the pain and injuries you have suffered as a result of the car accident in Texas. If you believe that you were injured in any way at all because of the car accident, seek immediate medical attention. It’s in your best interest not to try to “tough it out,” but rather to get an official, professional opinion about your condition.
4. Never admit fault: The other driver’s insurance company will attempt to use your words against you if you later bring a personal injury claim. Regardless of the circumstances surrounding the accident, do not admit fault to anyone. Only speak to the other driver as much as necessary to exchange contact information.
5. Seek the advice of an experienced Texas personal injury attorney: Your Texas personal injury lawyer is there to represent your interests – and your interests alone. By having your case evaluated by a Texas personal injury attorney, you can be sure that you are receiving a fair settlement offer for your claim. If no settlement agreement can be reached, then your attorney can take your Texas personal injury lawsuit to court.