Houston Car Accident Lawyer: A Step-by-Step Guide to Your Legal Options
Car accidents are an unfortunate fact of life in the United States. Almost every driver will be involved in some sort of collision at some point in their life. According to the Texas Department of Transportation, there are more than 500,000 reported car crashes in the state each year and nearly 70,000 incidents in the city of Houston. While the majority of these accidents are minor fender benders and don’t cause anything worse than a trip to the body shop, around 1,500 Houstonians suffer a serious injury as a result of an auto wreck.
Any car accident is stressful and potentially overwhelming, even when no one is hurt. That’s why it’s absolutely vital you understand exactly what steps to take in the event an accident leaves you injured.
Reporting the accident and seeking medical attention, collecting and documenting evidence, and quickly engaging the services of a Houston car accident lawyer will ensure your injury claim is supported to the fullest extent possible.
Report the Accident and Seek Medical Attention
The first step after any car accident is to ensure that everyone is safe. Make sure your car has made a complete stop. Put the car in park, turn off the ignition, and engage the flashing hazard lights. Only leave your vehicle if you’re in an area safe from oncoming traffic.
If someone is injured in the car accident, Texas law requires drivers to give “reasonable assistance” to the person who is hurt. This assistance entails:
- Remaining at the scene of the accident.
- Giving your name, address, phone number, insurance policy provider and number, and vehicle registration number.
- Calling emergency services and arranging transportation to a medical facility if the other person is unable to do so.
Collect as Much Evidence as Possible
Document the accident as thoroughly as possible. Take pictures from the scene of the accident, including any obstructed views. Document driving conditions such as weather or traffic level and traffic signals and signs. Even if you think your injuries don’t require an ambulance you must still call the police. Their report from the scene will be one of the most important pieces of evidence supporting your injury claim.
Take pictures of the damage to your vehicle and get copies of any repair estimates. Also get copies of doctor’s notes, medical reports, and bills related to your injuries suffered in the wreck.
Seek the Help of a Houston Car Accident Lawyer
When you have compiled all the available evidence, start researching and contacting local car crash attorneys. Personal injury cases are not easy or simple processes and determining liability and damages requires legal expertise. An experienced lawyer will understand how to analyze the relevant evidence to understand who is at fault and how much your case is worth. They will also work with you to file the initial claim, communicate with the insurance adjustors on your behalf, counsel you on your options when you receive the insurer’s initial offer, and act as your negotiator with the insurance company to ensure rights and interests are protected.
Car accidents are never fun and can be serious disruptions to your life when an injury is involved. By following the process above and working with an experienced car accident lawyer, you can help make sure your injuries are compensated and you receive the justice you deserve.
