What to Do After a Car Accident in Texas: Protecting Your Rights and Health

What to Do After a Car Accident in Texas Protecting Your Rights and Health

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Car accidents are an unfortunate reality of life on the roads, and Texas—the state with some of the busiest highways in the nation—is no exception. According to the Texas Department of Transportation, there was not a single day in 2022 without a road accident recorded somewhere in the state. If you’ve been involved in a car accident in Texas, knowing what steps to take can significantly impact your recovery, both physically and financially. This guide will walk you through everything you need to do to protect your rights and your health after a crash.

Immediate Steps After a Car Accident

1. Stay Calm and Ensure Safety

First and foremost, try to stay as calm as possible. Car accidents can be overwhelming, but staying composed will help you make better decisions. Check yourself and others for injuries. If it’s safe to do so, move your vehicle out of the flow of traffic to avoid further accidents.

2. Contact Emergency Services

Call 911 immediately to report the accident, especially if there are injuries or significant property damage. A police report will be an essential piece of evidence when you file an insurance claim or pursue legal action.

3. Document the Accident

Gather as much information as you can, including photographs of the scene, vehicle damage, road conditions, and any visible injuries. Also, exchange insurance information and contact details with the other driver(s) involved. If there are witnesses, ask for their contact information as well, as their accounts can be valuable later.

Protecting Your Rights in Texas

Understand Texas Car Accident Laws

Texas operates under a “fault” system, meaning that the driver deemed responsible for the accident can be held liable for damages. This makes establishing fault crucial. Your documentation of the accident and evidence gathered will play a pivotal role in determining liability.

Know the Statute of Limitations

Texas law gives you two years from the date of the accident to file a personal injury claim. Missing this deadline could mean forfeiting your right to compensation. Taking prompt action is essential to ensure you don’t run out of time.

Seeking Medical Attention

Why Medical Evaluations Are Crucial

Even if you don’t feel injured immediately after an accident, it’s vital to see a doctor as soon as possible. Adrenaline can mask pain, and some injuries, like whiplash or internal damage, may not present symptoms until hours or even days later.

Delayed Symptoms and Insurance Claims

If you delay seeking medical attention, insurance adjusters may argue that your injuries were minor or unrelated to the accident. A documented medical evaluation can help solidify your claim and ensure you receive full compensation.

Contacting an Attorney

The Importance of Legal Representation

Hiring a car accident attorney can make a substantial difference in the outcome of your case. An experienced attorney will ensure you fully understand your rights, gather evidence, communicate with insurance companies, and represent you in court if necessary.

How to Choose the Right Attorney

Look for someone with experience in handling car accident cases in Texas, a solid track record, and positive client testimonials. Schedule consultations with potential attorneys to ensure their communication style and approach align with your needs.

Dealing with Insurance Companies

Communicating with Adjusters

When speaking with insurance adjusters, stick to the facts. Avoid offering your opinion or saying anything that could be interpreted as admitting fault. Even a seemingly innocent statement like “I’m sorry” could be used against you.

Avoid Accepting Quick Settlements

Insurance companies often propose low settlement offers to close cases quickly. Don’t rush into accepting an offer before consulting your attorney. Once you accept a settlement, you forfeit the right to pursue additional compensation, even if your expenses continue to rise.

Documenting Your Damages

Keep Records of All Expenses

Start documenting every accident-related expense immediately. This includes medical bills, repair costs, lost wages, and even incidental expenses like rideshare fees for doctor visits.

Photographs and Witness Statements

Visual evidence of damages, such as vehicle scratches or injuries, and witness accounts can strengthen your case. Store these in a safe, organized manner for easy access.

Navigating the Legal Process

The Stages of a Car Accident Claim

The legal process can vary, but it generally involves the following steps:

  1. Filing an insurance claim.
  2. Investigating the accident and gathering evidence.
  3. Negotiating a settlement with the insurance company.
  4. Filing a lawsuit (if necessary) and proceeding to court if a fair settlement isn’t reached.

Stay Patient and Persistent

Legal proceedings, especially those involving car accident claims, can be time-consuming. Stay patient and follow your attorney’s advice throughout the process. Persistence can lead to a better outcome.

When the Road Gets Rough, Take the Right Steps

Recovering from a car accident—whether physically, financially, or emotionally—can be challenging. But by taking the right steps, you can protect your rights and ensure you’re adequately compensated for your losses.

If you’ve recently been in a car accident in Texas, don’t hesitate to seek the support you need. Whether it’s finding the right medical care or navigating complex legalities, every step matters.

Need professional help protecting your rights? Contact a trusted car accident attorney in Texas today to make sure you’re on the road to recovery.

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About McKay Law

Caleb Moore
Caleb Moore
This business does truly care about their clients and their needs! They have an amazing staff, and are one of the best places in the area for sure!
Amy Patterson
Amy Patterson
McKay Law and Attorney Lindsay McKay were extremely prompt with in helping me with my wreck! She is very knowledgeable of the law!
Alexandra Serrano
Alexandra Serrano
She, was very helpful she gonna fights for your right !!! Awesome lawyer and company’s 👍🏻👍🏻👍🏻👍🏻👍🏻👍🏻
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Carmen Montoya
Lindsey and her team were very professional! I am so thankful to have had them work on my case.
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Jenny Wakeland
Mrs. McKay treats her employees well. She is knowledgeable, professional and trustworthy. She truly cares about her clients.
Cobbie Johnson
Cobbie Johnson
Very professional greatest law firm I’ve ever worked with.

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