Getting into a car accident is one of the most stressful experiences anyone can face. It happens so fast that it’s hard to know what to do next. But when you find yourself involved in a car accident in Texas, taking the right steps is important not only for your physical and emotional recovery but also to protect your legal rights. Understanding what to do after an accident can help ease the stress and put you on the road to recovery. At, Chavez Law Firm , we are here to guide you through the legal process and help you navigate the complexities of your case.
Stay Calm and Assess the Situation
The moments after a car accident can feel overwhelming, but staying calm is the first thing you should focus on. Even though you may feel shocked, frightened, or confused, try to take a deep breath and gather your thoughts. Your safety and the safety of others are the most important things to consider. Make sure you and any passengers are not in harm’s way. If your car is in a dangerous location, such as the middle of a busy street, and it’s safe to move it to the side, do so carefully. If moving the vehicle is not possible, turning on your hazard lights can warn other drivers to avoid further accidents.
Once you’ve ensured that you and others are out of immediate danger, check yourself and passengers for injuries. Even if the injuries seem minor, it’s important to be aware that some symptoms may not appear until hours or even days later. If anyone is injured or unconscious, calling 911 for emergency medical help should be the next step.
Call the Police to the Scene
After ensuring everyone is safe, it’s important to contact the police. Having an official police report can be very helpful when filing an insurance claim or if any legal matters arise from the accident. When the police arrive, explain to them exactly what happened. Stick to the facts and avoid guessing or speculating, as this can complicate things later. If possible, ask for a copy of the police report or the report number so that you can access it later.
Even if the accident seems minor, it’s still a good idea to call the police. In some cases, the other driver may ask you not to involve the authorities, but having an official report is one of the best ways to protect yourself if there are disputes about what happened.
Enrique Chavez
Texas Trial Attorney
Protecting Your Rights
Document the Accident Scene
If you are physically able to, documenting the accident scene is a smart thing to do. Having your own record of what happened can be very useful later on, especially if there are disagreements about the events of the crash. You can take pictures of the damage to both vehicles, any injuries, and the surrounding area. Make sure to capture details like skid marks, road signs, traffic lights, and any other relevant factors that may have contributed to the accident.
In addition to taking photos, it’s helpful to exchange information with the other driver. You will want to get their name, address, phone number, insurance company, and policy number. Make sure you also write down their vehicle’s license plate number. If there were any witnesses to the accident, ask them for their contact information as well, since their testimony could be valuable in the future.
Seek Medical Attention Right Away
Even if you feel fine right after the accident, it’s essential to seek medical attention as soon as possible. Some injuries, such as whiplash or internal injuries, may not show symptoms immediately but can still be serious. By seeing a doctor, you ensure that any injuries are diagnosed and treated quickly. Additionally, having a medical record of your injuries can be important when filing an insurance claim or pursuing legal action later.
Make sure to follow your doctor’s advice closely. This includes taking prescribed medications, attending follow-up appointments, and participating in physical therapy if necessary. Failing to do so could not only slow your recovery but may also impact the outcome of any legal or insurance claims.
– Steve Hendrix – Adriana Solis – Luis Amador – Maria Terrazas
Notify Your Insurance Company
Contacting your insurance company to report the accident is another crucial step. Most insurance companies require that you report accidents within a certain timeframe, so it’s important to do this as soon as possible. When speaking with your insurance agent, provide them with the information you collected at the scene, such as the other driver’s details and the police report number.
It’s important to be honest with your insurance company but avoid accepting fault for the accident until all the facts are clear. Insurance adjusters will investigate the claim and determine who is at fault based on the evidence. While you may feel responsible for what happened, let the investigation proceed before assuming fault. This will help ensure that you receive the coverage you’re entitled to.
Understand Your Legal Rights
After a car accident, you may find yourself dealing with many issues, from recovering physically to handling the damage to your vehicle. On top of that, you may face medical bills, lost wages, and other financial burdens as a result of the accident. Knowing your legal rights is important in making sure you are properly compensated for any losses you suffer.
In Texas, you have the right to pursue compensation if the accident was caused by someone else’s negligence. This can include medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and damage to your property. However, insurance companies may try to settle your claim for less than what you deserve, which is why it’s important to consult with a lawyer who can guide you through the process.
Protecting Your Claim
To protect your claim, it’s important to avoid certain mistakes that could harm your case. For example, giving a recorded statement to the other driver’s insurance company without consulting an attorney could lead to issues. Insurance companies may try to use your words against you to reduce the amount they have to pay. Always speak to a lawyer before giving any formal statements to insurance adjusters.
Another common mistake is waiting too long to take action. In Texas, the statute of limitations for personal injury claims is typically two years from the date of the accident. Waiting too long could result in losing your right to pursue compensation.
How a Lawyer Can Help
Navigating the aftermath of a car accident can be challenging, especially if you’re dealing with injuries, medical treatments, and financial stress. An attorney can provide valuable assistance by helping you understand your legal rights, dealing with the insurance companies on your behalf, and ensuring that you receive fair compensation for your losses.
A lawyer can also help gather evidence, interview witnesses, and build a strong case to support your claim. If negotiations with the insurance company do not lead to a fair settlement, your attorney can file a lawsuit and represent you in court. Having a legal advocate on your side can make a significant difference in the outcome of your case.
Recovering from a car accident is not only about healing physically but also emotionally and financially. The steps you take after the accident can have a big impact on how quickly you recover and how much compensation you receive for your injuries and damages. By staying calm, documenting the accident, seeking medical attention, and protecting your legal rights, you can put yourself in the best position to move forward after a Texas car accident.
If you have been injured in a car accident and are unsure of what to do next, seeking legal advice is a good step. Chavez Law Firm is here to help you navigate the legal process and fight for the compensation you deserve. We offer free consultations and work on a contingency fee basis, meaning you won’t pay any fees unless we win your case. Reach out to us today to discuss your options and take the first step toward recovery.