A car accident can be a shocking and overwhelming experience, but taking the right steps immediately after the crash can help protect your health and ensure you receive fair compensation for your injuries. Today, we at Lastimado Texas would like to share what you should do to safeguard your personal injury claim.
Check for Injuries & Call 911
Your first priority should always be your safety and the safety of others. Check yourself and any passengers for injuries. Even if the injuries seem minor, call 911 to report the accident and request medical assistance if necessary. Some injuries, like whiplash or internal bleeding, may not be immediately apparent but can become serious over time.
Move to a Safe Location (If Possible)
If the accident is minor and there are no severe injuries, move your vehicle to a safe spot, such as the shoulder of the road. However, if moving the car is dangerous, stay put and turn on your hazard lights to warn other drivers.
Call the Police & Obtain a Police Report
Having law enforcement on the scene is crucial for your injury claim. A police report provides an unbiased account of the accident, including details about fault, witness statements, and other vital information. Even if the accident seems minor, an official report can strengthen your case when dealing with insurance companies.
Exchange Information with the Other Driver
Gather the following details from the other driver:
– Full name and contact information
– Driver’s license number
– Insurance company and policy number
– Vehicle make, model, and license plate number
– Location of the accident Avoid discussing fault or apologizing, as this could be used against you in your claim.
Document the Scene with Photos & Videos
Take clear photos and videos of the accident scene, including:
– Vehicle damage (all angles)
– Skid marks or road conditions
– Traffic signs or signals
– Any visible injuries
– The other driver’s license plate and insurance card These visual records can provide strong evidence for your claim.
Speak to Witnesses & Collect Their Contact Information
If there were any witnesses to the accident, ask for their names and phone numbers. Witness statements can help confirm what happened and support your version of events.
Seek Medical Attention Immediately
Even if you feel fine, visit a doctor as soon as possible. Some injuries take hours or days to manifest, and delaying medical treatment can hurt your claim. Medical records serve as crucial evidence of your injuries and the impact of the accident.
Notify Your Insurance Company
Report the accident to your insurance company promptly, providing only the necessary facts. Be cautious about giving recorded statements before consulting with an attorney.
Consult with a Personal Injury Attorney
An experienced personal injury lawyer can help protect your rights, deal with insurance companies, and maximize your compensation. Many attorneys offer free consultations, so seeking legal advice early is beneficial.
Personal Injury Attorneys in Dallas / Fort Worth, TX (Just Minutes from Carrollton, Richardson, Farmers Branch, Garland, Irving, Mesquite, Grand Prairie, Duncanville, Hutchins & DeSoto, Texas)
The statute of limitations on car insurance claims in Texas is two years. Of course, just because you have the option to wait longer to file a claim doesn’t mean you should. Claims made years after an incident may flag an insurance company to potentially conduct a more extensive investigation and be less likely to believe your story. To reduce the risk of being denied reimbursement, filing your claim ASAP is always a safer bet. Following these steps can strengthen your injury claim and ensure you receive the compensation you deserve. Contact Lastimado Texas if you been involved in an auto accident and are seeking personal injury claim.
