Being injured in an accident is a scary and traumatic experience. While it can be difficult to think clearly when you are in pain and feeling disoriented, there are certain steps you need to take to protect yourself and to ensure that you have the best chance of recovering the compensation you deserve with the help of a Houston accident lawyer.
Given below are four critical steps you need to take if you are injured in an accident.
1. Call 911
This is the very first step you need to take if you have been injured in an accident. Once the police arrive at the scene of the accident, give them a first-hand account of what happened.
This is important, because the police report – which explains how the accident happened, who was involved, and who suffered injuries – can help your Houston accident lawyer establish a strong case against the negligent driver.
2. Take Pictures
The next step involves documenting the scene of the accident. Given below is a list of things you should take pictures of.
· Your injuries
· The exact spot of the accident
· Damage caused to the vehicles of all the parties involved (if it was an automobile accident)
· Damage caused to your personal property (watch, camera, laptop, tools, or any other equipment which was damaged in the accident and might have to be repaired or replaced)
· Sidewalks, street signs, traffic signals, utility poles, lampposts, and other things that might have been damaged in the accident
· The safety hazard that caused the accident (if it was a slip and fall accident)
· License plates of all the vehicles involved in the accident
The more pictures you take, the easier it will be for your Houston accident lawyer to build a case against the at-fault party.
3. Look for Witnesses
If the accident happened in a public place, chances are someone witnessed it.
If you’re safe and able to do so, canvass nearby businesses or bystanders. Talk to them, ask them if they witnessed the accident, and get their contact information. A statement or testimonial from a witness can go a long way in convincing the jury or judge that the accident was caused directly as a result of the at-fault party’s negligent or willful actions, which can make it easier for your Houston accident lawyer to recover the compensation you deserve.
4. Get Medical Treatment
Get medical treatment for your injuries. Remember – your personal injury case is built on the very claim that you were injured in the accident. If you cannot back up your claim with medical records and physician’s reports, you may not have a case.
Choose the Right Houston Accident Lawyer to Represent You
At Kirk Law Firm, we know that a serious injury can turn your life upside down. We can fight for you, hold the at-fault party accountable, and recover the damages you deserve.
Headed by Dana G. Kirk – who is one of the most experienced and successful civil litigation attorneys in the country today – our firm has recovered substantial damages for thousands of injury victims through negotiated settlements and litigation. Reach us online to schedule a free and confidential consultation with one of our Houston accident lawyers.