Houston car wrecks can turn life around in the blink of an eye. Injuries, costs, and concern generally follow. Most victims have no idea what to do next. A Houston car accident lawyer can guide you through this trying time. This page explains what to do following a collision. It also outlines how an attorney will protect your rights and secure fair compensation.
Step 1: Check Yourself for Injury and Call Emergency Services
Be Safe! Take a quick inventory of yourself and others. If anyone is hurt, call 911. The Emergency Services will take care of medical attention and area security. Pretend you are fine when you may not be. Some injuries with motor vehicle accidents, such as whiplash or concussions, may have delayed symptoms. You could also use a medical report in your injury claim.
Step 2: Call the Police and Report
You always need to call the police after a crash in Houston. A police report is a legal document. It will include the details of the accident, drivers, and witnesses’ testimonies. The report is your major proof if you make an insurance claim or lawsuit. Without that, the insurance company will dispute your testimony.
Step 3: Gather Evidence at the Scene
If possible, gather evidence when leaving the scene. Photograph:
- Damage to vehicles
- Conditions of roads
- Skid marks on roads
- Traffic signs and signals
- Visible injuries to individuals involved
Get contact details of witnesses. These words could help your case in the future. Exchange insurance and license details with the other motorist, but do not get stuck talking. Do not apologize. Leave the investigation to the police and your lawyer.
Step 4: Call Your Insurance Company
Texas law requires you to report the wreck to your insurance company. Do it as soon as it’s convenient for you. Give only basic information. Don’t give detailed accounts until you speak with your attorney. Insurance adjusters will try to lowball your payment. A lawyer can answer calls to prevent mistakes that’ll ruin your claim.
Step 5: Document All Your Expenses
Accidents are costly. Document medical bills, car repairs, lost wages, and other expenses. A personal injury lawyer will rely on these records to calculate fair compensation. Daily life activities affected by your injuries can also be documented in the form of a diary. Pain, emotional distress, and loss of pleasure can be claimed.
Step 6: Seek a Houston Personal Injury Lawyer
Having an attorney can be the deciding factor in your case. An experienced attorney will:
- Read the accident report and evidence
- Negotiate insurance companies
- File claims and lawsuits on your behalf
- Seek reasonable settlement or litigate the case
Most Houston personal injury lawyers practice on a contingency basis. You owe nothing if they fail to win benefits on your behalf.
How a Lawyer Helps After a Car Accident
Investigating the Accident
Attorneys have resources to dig deep. They can team up with accident reconstruction experts to determine fault.
Establishing Negligence
You must prove the other driver was negligent. This means they failed to exercise care. An attorney collects proof of speeding, distraction, DUI, or careless behavior.
Determining Damages
Insurance will pay less than you deserve. An attorney looks at everything in terms of dollars: medical care, lost income, pain, and future needs.
Settlement Negotiations
Most cases settle. Lawyers negotiate fair terms. If negotiations fail, they sue the case out.
Most Common Mistakes After a Car Accident
- Not calling the police.
- Being honest about fault on the scene.
- Refusing medical care.
- Saying too much to insurance adjusters.
- Taking the first settlement offer.
Avoiding mistakes makes your case stronger.
Time Limit for Filing a Claim in Houston
Texas statute offers a two-year window to file most auto accident claims. This is known as the statute of limitations. Missing this will forfeit your right to recovery. A lawyer can help make sure all the filings are on time.
Why Local Experience Matters
Houston traffic laws and court processes may be complicated. A local lawyer knows how judges and insurance adjusters handle these types of cases within the area. They can work to your advantage.
FAQs About Car Accidents in Houston
- Do I need an attorney if my injury is minor?
Minor injuries can become worse. Insurance companies may downplay your claim. An attorney ensures you receive fair treatment.
- What if the other driver is uninsured?
Texas has an insurance use law that some drivers ignore. Your lawyer can file for uninsured motorist claims and other legal options.
- Do I still get money if I was myself partially at fault?
Yes. Texas operates under a modified comparative fault policy. You can recover damages if you are less than 51% at fault. Your payment is reduced by your degree of fault.
- How much does a Houston personal injury lawyer cost?
Most of them are on contingency fees. You pay nothing initially. They get only a percentage if they win your case.
- How long will my case take?
That depends on the severity of injury, the complexity of cases, and the response of the insurance company. Some take months to settle. Some may take over a year if trial is necessary.
Final Thoughts
A car crash in Houston causes trauma, pain, and financial strain. But by following the proper procedures after the crash, you can protect your health and your accident claim. The right personal injury lawyer can stand beside you, negotiate with the insurance companies, and will get you a reasonable settlement. If you’ve been injured in a vehicle accident, or if someone you love has been hurt in a car accident in Texas, call a competent local Houston personal injury lawyer today. Timing is everything.
