Getting into a car accident is a terrifying experience. Unfortunately, most people get into at least one car crash in their lifetime. While we would all like to avoid being in this situation, it’s important to know what to do if you’re involved in a crash. Taking the right steps right after your accident can make all the difference. If you have any questions, you can contact an experienced car crash attorney.
The first thing you should do before getting behind the wheel is to prepare for an accident. What that means is, making sure you have the right coverage. Having the right auto insurance is one of the best things you can do to prepare for an accident. You should never get behind the wheel without insurance. Not only is it illegal, but it can make your life much more difficult if you do get into an accident.
Move Over After Your Car Crash
This might seem obvious, but people failing to move their cars off the road after a crash is a huge problem. Many people think that they are preserving evidence when they keep their cars in the same place after the crash. The truth is, this is doing more harm than good. Keeping your car on the road greatly increases your chances of getting into a secondary accident. If you can move your car off the road safely, be sure to do so. Always prioritize your own safety above anything else.
Check for injuries
Unfortunately in Texas, most car crashes involve injuries. After a crash, someone may be seriously hurt. If you’re fine, be sure to check all occupants for injuries. If someone is hurt, or unconscious, call 911 right away. Once your vehicle is off the road, go and check the other vehicle, if you can do so safely. Often times, it’s impossible to tell if the occupants of the other vehicle can call for help or not without checking.
Get Relevant Information
Once you have made sure everyone is okay, take a look around the scene of the crash. You could have crashed at a hazardous place on the road. Being on a hill or a curve can be dangerous, other drivers might not see you until its too late. Also, be on the lookout for other hazards. If there is anything flammable, or a down electrical line, get to safety immediately. Once you sure everyone is safe, collect and exchange information with the other driver. This includes their name, contact info, insurance info, and names of witnesses or other occupants.
Get Evidence.
This is one of the most important steps when it comes to your car crash case. Your goal is to get enough information to help reconstruct the crash. This does not mean asking questions and bagging evidence. That’s for the authorities to do. What you’ll be doing is taking pictures. This should be easy since most phones come with a camera. Simply take a picture of the damages. Snap a few pictures of the damage done to each car, and take a picture of any other property damage.
Call the Authorities.
Be sure to call the police after any car crash to report the accident. This is especially true if anyone was injured, or there was extensive property damage. When the police show up to the scene, they will take a written report. This report will be an important part of your case. Be sure to ask the officer when his/her report will be ready. Get the officer’s contact information, and request the finish report when appropriate.
Things to Remember After Your Car Crash.
After an accident, never do anything that admits or implies you’re at fault. This could make your attorney’s job much harder. You might be tempted to say “I’m sorry,” or something of that nature, but that will only make your situation worse. Even if you think the accident is your fault, do not admit guilt. There might be circumstances that you’re unaware of. It’s impossible to know who’s at fault without all the facts. Also, never talk to the other party’s insurance, and be careful of what you say to your insurance company. If the insurance companies try to contact you, direct them to your attorney for all communications.
However, it’s always a good idea to see your doctor after an accident. While you might want to wait it out, this isn’t advisable. The sooner you get treated the better. Even if you feel fine you should see a doctor, just to be sure. Remember to be honest about your injuries. Don’t downplay or exaggerate them. Follow your doctor’s advice, and go to any follow-up appointments they suggest, and take the medication they prescribe. Failing to do so can be used against you in court.
Wondering the Worth of Your Personal Injury Case?
After a personal injury accident, your top priority should be recovering. Not trying to figure out which damages you may be eligible for and determining the value of your claim on your own. Consult a Texas personal injury lawyer from The Law Giant, Personal Injury & Accident Lawyers.
To find out how much your personal injury claim is worth, contact The Law Giant right away. You can count on us to investigate your situation and ensure you secure the fair compensation you deserve. To schedule a free, initial evaluation of your case, contact us today at (866) 523-4167.
