Data from the Department of Transportation (DOT) shows that in 2019, there were a total of 12,897 motor vehicle accidents in Texas, in which 3,610 were killed and 15,843 were seriously injured. On average, at least one person was killed in a motor vehicle accident every 2 hours 26 minutes. Here are five critical steps you should take after an accident to have the best chance to recover damages with the help of a Texas car accident attorney.
1. Ensure Your Safety
First of all, see if you are able to move all your limbs. If you are able to do so, get out of the car. If you have passengers in your car, check on them and see if they are able to move on their own. If they appear to be injured and unable to move, do not try to move them.
2. Report the Accident
Call 911 and request them to send first responders to the accident spot. Once the police arrive at the scene, give them a brief account of what happened – without exaggerating or downplaying any details. The police report – as any Texas car accident attorney can tell you – is an essential piece of evidence that can be used to build a watertight case against the driver who caused the accident.
3. Document the Accident Scene
This is the most important step you need to take after a car accident. Photographic evidence can make it easier for your Texas car accident attorney to prove the extent of injuries and property damage you suffered in the accident. So, take pictures of the following things with a camera or a smartphone.
- Your injuries
- Damage to your car and personal belongings
- Damage to the other vehicle
- Damage to private and public properties in and around the accident scene
- Traffic lights, street signs, and utility poles in the area
- Broken glass, skid marks, broken auto parts, and other signs of the accident
4. Gather Information
Get the following information from the other driver.
- Name
- Address
- Contact number
- Driver’s license
- License plate number
- Insurance details
5. Get Medical Help
Seek emergency medical care if needed or schedule an appointment with a primary care physician and get yourself thoroughly examined for injuries. Most importantly, follow the physician’s instructions carefully.
Remember – any lapse on your part in seeking medical care or following the physician’s instructions can be used by the at-fault party to deny or reduce the value of your claim, as a result of which your Texas car accident attorney might not be able to negotiate with the insurance company from a position of strength, which in turn can make it harder to recover the compensation you deserve.
Choose the Right Texas Car Accident Attorney to Fight for You
Dana G. Kirk is one of the most successful car accident attorneys in the country today. For over 40 years, he has represented countless victims of car accidents in Texas and recovered millions through negotiated settlements and verdicts.
The recipient of Martindale-Hubbell’s AV Preeminent Peer Review Rating, which is the highest recognition in the legal industry, Dana G. Kirk can provide you with aggressive, cost-effective legal representation that can deliver the results you need.
Complete this online contact form for a free consultation with one of our car accident attorneys.
