19 September 2022
Your Guide on What to Do After You’ve Been in a Car Accident
Car accidents can be terrifying, even when the accident is not serious. In the aftermath of a crash, it is crucial to make sure you have the support of an experienced attorney. The McLemore Law Firm will file claims and pursue compensation so that you can focus on your recovery.
Taking the right steps at the scene of the accident can also help you avoid problems later down the road. This what to do after a car accident checklist will walk you through everything you should do after a car crash.
Stay at the Scene of the Accident
Texas car accident law requires all involved parties to remain at the scene of the accident if the accident caused damage or injuries. If you leave the scene of an accident before the authorities arrive, you could get charged with a hit-and-run.
While you should not leave the scene of the crash, you should take a few precautions to make sure you stay safe while you wait. If possible, pull over your vehicle so that you are not blocking the road. If it is dark outside, turn on your hazard lights to warn other drivers that there is an accident again.
Report the Accident
Once you are in a safe spot and have checked to see if anyone else involved in the accident needs help, call 911 so that you can report your crash. If necessary, the operator can send emergency responders your way. A police officer will also come to the scene of your accident to file a crash report.
Exchange Information With the Other Driver and Witnesses
In Texas, motorists need to share basic information before leaving the crash site, including names, contact information, and insurance information. If any involved drivers cannot provide you with insurance information, request that they give you their vehicle registration information.
You should look for potential witnesses to the crash. If someone did see your accident, ask them for their contact information so that you have the option of following up with them later on.
Gather Evidence
Evidence is crucial to proving fault in a car accident. It is more difficult to collect evidence after an accident, which is why you should gather as much information as you can at the scene of the crash.
Use your phone to take pictures of your vehicle and the other car from different angles. Try to capture images of the road as well. Pictures of skidmarks and debris are useful in reconstructing the accident.
You should also take a few notes about what happened. This will make it easier for you to recall details later on. While you are taking notes, you should include the model, and license plate numbers of any other vehicles involved in the crash.
See a Doctor
Car accident injuries are not always obvious. If you are not treated by paramedics at the scene, head to the emergency room or visit your normal doctor. Whiplash, concussions, and internal injuries are all common after car accidents.
Not only will it be easier for you to recover from your injury if you receive prompt medical treatment, but seeing a doctor can also strengthen your claim. Your medical records can document your injuries and establish the injuries caused by the accident.
Call a Lawyer
Be cautious about what you say after a car accident in Texas. While you should cooperate with the other driver and responding officer, you should avoid discussing fault. The sooner you reach out to an attorney, the less likely it is that you will make mistakes that could damage your claim.
When you work with a Houston car accident lawyer that will handle your car accident, you will have the assistance of experts. Attorneys can gather more evidence in support of your claim and may even be able to bring in expert witnesses to testify on your behalf. Your attorney can also handle negotiations with your insurance company.
Proving liability after a car accident is not always easy. Since Texas is an at-fault state, you will have to show that the other driver bears at least 50% of the responsibility for the crash.
You can depend on the McLemore Law Firm to build a strong case and fight for the compensation that you’re entitled to. Contact us at 713-529-3678 so that you can get the support and guidance that you need.