An auto wreck occurs every 56 seconds in Texas, according to the Texas Department of Transportation. Unfortunately, the state attributes these accidents primarily to negligence, especially human error. While nobody is ever prepared to be in a crash, knowing what to expect in such an eventuality is crucial for your well-being.
If you have been involved in a car accident in Sugar Land, it is important to know the right and wrong ways to conduct yourself following the crash. Some of these tips may come naturally, while others may seem overly cautious. However, when it comes to your health or your property, taking these protective measures will ensure that the responsible party is held accountable.
Forgetting to Take Pictures
In the months following an accident, there may be a dispute about the condition of the vehicles after the crash. To avoid this, it’s always wise to take pictures of the property damage of both cars, as well as the position of the vehicles on the street relative to the nearest intersection.
Take pictures of the other driver’s license and insurance information as well. If you have visible injuries (rash, bruise, bleeding, etc.), take pictures of them too. Insurance companies for the negligent driver may dispute the cause of your injuries months later, so having photographic evidence can help support your claim.
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Failing to Seek Treatment
Even if you believe you were not injured in a car accident, it is important to seek medical evaluation. Some injuries may not be immediately apparent, and may worsen if left undiagnosed or untreated. Seeking immediate medical evaluation also helps link any harm suffered to the accident. The medical reports and testimonials from your physician form the basis of proving causation, should you wish to pursue a personal injury claim against another party for the losses you suffered.
Not Reporting the Accident
Regardless of how minor your auto wreck may seem, it is crucial to involve the police. Even seemingly insignificant crashes can result in serious consequences, particularly if traffic laws were violated leading up to the collision. Additionally, the police will collect all facts relating to the accident as part of their duties, and the final results will be documented in a report. Remember to keep a copy of the report before leaving the scene.
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Talking to the Other Person’s Insurance Company
After informing your own insurance company of the accident, they may contact the other driver’s insurance company. The other insurer may then call you to discuss the accident, how it happened, and how you are feeling. While they may appear concerned for your well-being, their primary aim is often to prove that you were at fault for the accident, or that you did not suffer any injuries.
The insurance company may even offer you a settlement to resolve the claim immediately. They know you are in a vulnerable position, as you may not know the total cost of your medical bills or the value of your pain and suffering. They may use this to their advantage by contacting you as soon as possible following the crash.
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Failing to Consult with an Attorney
Respected personal injury firms often offer free consultations for accident victims. Your case may not require an attorney, but it is always a good idea to consult one before deciding to handle it on your own. Personal injury attorneys typically do not charge by the hour. Instead, they receive a percentage of the final settlement amount after the case has been resolved. Qualified personal injury lawyers only accept cases they are confident they can win and that will result in a greater settlement amount than if the victim handled the case alone.
When it comes to managing your personal injury claim, it is highly recommended to have an attorney speak on your behalf. A personal injury attorney will not only negotiate with the insurance company, but they will also assist you throughout your entire injury claim, from medical treatment to trial. Your car accident lawyer will gather medical bills and records, negotiate with the insurance company, and proceed to litigation and trial if necessary, keeping you informed of the process and ensuring that you receive a fair settlement for your injuries.
We Can Help
If you have been injured in a car accident due to someone else’s negligence, contact our office today for a free consultation. Our attorneys will assess your case to determine if legal representation would benefit you. If someone else caused the accident resulting in your injuries, we will work tirelessly to ensure you receive a fair settlement. Call us today to get started.
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