Car accidents, especially those resulting in a physical injury can be traumatic events that make it difficult to keep a clear head. It is important to have a plan of action in mind because the moments after your accident can greatly impact the outcome of your car accident case. If you are a car accident victim, don’t panic after your car accident, follow these steps instead and then reach out to the Law Office of Beverly R. Caruthers.
What to Do After a Car Accident
1. Check for injuries and move to a safe area
Immediately determine if anyone is injured. If so, call 911 to get an ambulance and police on the scene. Even if the incident was minor and the other driver is cooperative, calling the police is required in some states. Besides, that way you’ll have an official report to give to your insurance company, which it’ll likely ask for.
If the vehicles involved are still operational, get them to the shoulder or off the main road and turn on the hazard lights. Make sure to pull completely off the road to avoid being hit by approaching vehicles. If you have flares or reflective emergency triangles, set them up to warn other drivers. If there appears to be a danger of explosion, get everyone away from the vehicle to a safe place off the road.
2. Exchange information
Generally, you need to provide only your name and your insurance information to any other drivers involved. While you might want to hash out the details of the crash with the other driver, it’s best to limit your interaction so you don’t admit guilt, blame the other person or let the other driver know what your insurance policy limits are.
The information you should try to collect includes:
- Name and insurance information of the other driver, including the policy number and insurer’s phone number.
- The other driver’s telephone number, if they are willing to provide it.
- Witness contact information.
- Police report number and a copy of the police report if possible.
- Police officer’s name and badge number.
3. Document the crash
You’ll want to diligently document the scene of the accident. Here’s a list of everything you should capture:
- Photos of all damage, including any to the other driver’s car.
- Photo of the other driver’s license plate.
- Date and time of the accident.
- Personal notes on what happened, including the speed you were driving and road conditions. If you can, draw a diagram of the scene and how the accident occurred, including the direction each vehicle was traveling.
4. Decide whether to file a claim
If the accident was your fault, you’re not required to file a claim. But be aware that even an accident that seems minor could be costlier than you think.
If the accident wasn’t your fault, you’re responsible for filing a claim with the at-fault driver’s insurance company. Call your own insurer first — they may file the claim with the driver’s insurer on your behalf.
You might still have to use your own insurance, even if a crash was another driver’s fault. If that’s the case, file a claim with your insurance company and be prepared to pay a deductible. Your insurer will communicate with the other driver’s insurance company and refund your deductible if needed.
Don’t Panic After Your Car Accident, Follow These Steps Instead and reach out to our experienced personal injury attorney.
Spanish Speaking Car Accident Lawyer in Houston, Texas
Spanish-speaking individuals can have a more difficult time seeking justice in their personal injury cases due to language barriers. This causes them to not take action against those who have left them with financial devastation and physical trauma. At the Law Office of Beverly R. Caruthers, our team refuses to let a language barrier affect your right to justice and compensation. If you or someone you love has been injured in an accident and is in need of Spanish-speaking legal advice, our team is here for you.
Personal Injury Lawyer in Houston, Texas
If you or someone you love has been involved in a car accident and suffered an injury, experienced loss of income, or are unable to work due to a car accident, you can benefit from the services of a Houston car accident expert in your personal injury case. Whether you missed work due to an injury or due to not having access to a vehicle, Attorney Beverly R. Caruthers can help you!
Beverly R Caruthers Law Office
Address: 4141 Southwest Fwy, Suite 620
Houston, TX 77027
(713) 526-9557
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