Guide for Car Accident Victims in Houston, Texas: The Procedures to Follow After a Vehicle Collision
In the aftermath of a car accident in Houston, navigating the complex legal landscape can be challenging. Here's a step-by-step guide to help you through the process.
Step 1: Prioritise Safety
Immediately after the accident, ensure the safety of all involved. Check for injuries in yourself and passengers, and call 911 if necessary. Move to a safe location if possible.
Step 2: Report the Accident
In Houston, it is mandatory to report crashes that result in injury, death, or serious damage. Even for a minor crash, call the police to obtain a formal report, which can aid in insurance claims and potential lawsuits.
Step 3: Gather Evidence
Take pictures and gather evidence at the scene, including damage to vehicles, skid marks, weather and road conditions, and exchange information with the other driver and witnesses.
Step 4: Seek Medical Attention
Injuries from car accidents may not always be immediately apparent. It's crucial to seek medical attention as soon as possible, even if you feel fine. A doctor's records can link your injury to the accident.
Step 5: Consult a Houston Personal Injury Lawyer
Consider consulting with a Houston personal injury lawyer for help with dealing with insurance companies and ensuring fair compensation.
Step 6: Notify Your Insurance Company
Notify your insurance company immediately following the accident, but be cautious about giving a recorded statement without the advice of an attorney.
Step 7: Keep Thorough Records
Keep thorough records of all expenses related to the accident, including police reports, medical bills, and work absence records.
Step 8: Be Mindful of Your Social Media Activity
Insurers may track your social media posts and photos, potentially harming your case. Be mindful of your activity, and ask family and friends to do the same to avoid potentially harmful posts about the accident, your sickness, or your claim.
Step 9: Adhere to Your Doctor's Orders
Adhere to your doctor's orders and prioritise patient recovery to improve your chances of a successful claim.
The Legal Process
Legal processes in Houston car accidents take their time, with a lawyer spending months organising evidence, negotiating, or preparing for trial. It's important to remember that Texas follows "modified comparative fault." You can recover if you are less than 51% at fault in a car accident.
Time Limits
In Texas, you generally have two years from the date of the accident to sue for a car accident. Forgetting this would end your claim. In Houston, there are finite deadlines to make a car accident claim. Failing to meet them would deny entitlement to damages.
Protecting Your Rights
A Houston personal injury lawyer guards your rights and guides you through the law, helping you to heal and move forward with confidence. They know how to get things done on time, sort through paperwork, and handle insurers.
Small accidents can result in hidden injuries, and it's beneficial to have a lawyer review your case value and protect you. Pre-trial counseling preserves your rights in a Houston car accident.
In summary, navigating a car accident in Houston requires careful steps and the guidance of a skilled personal injury lawyer. By following these steps and seeking legal advice, you can protect your rights, recover damages, and move forward with confidence.
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