Car accidents can happen unexpectedly, and when they do, the aftermath can be overwhelming. Whether you’ve been in a minor fender bender or a serious collision, knowing what steps to take immediately after the accident is crucial for protecting your legal rights. As an experienced Austin car wreck attorney from Slingshot Law, we’ve created this guide to help injured victims navigate the moments and days following a car accident.
1. Ensure Safety and Call Emergency Services
Your first priority after a car accident is safety. Move your vehicle to a safe area, if possible, without leaving the scene of the accident. Turn on your hazard lights to alert other drivers, and check yourself and any passengers for injuries.
Next, call 911 to report the accident. Even if no one appears to be seriously injured, it’s important to have law enforcement on the scene to document the incident. In Texas, accidents that result in injuries, fatalities, or damage over $1,000 must be reported to the police. The officer will create an official accident report, which could be vital for your case later.
2. Seek Medical Attention
Even if you don’t feel injured right away, it’s important to seek medical attention as soon as possible after a car accident. Some injuries, like whiplash or internal bleeding, may not show symptoms immediately but can worsen over time. A prompt medical evaluation will ensure you receive the care you need and create documentation of your injuries, which will be essential if you file a personal injury claim.
Additionally, failing to seek medical attention could hurt your chances of receiving compensation. Insurance companies may argue that your injuries aren’t serious if you didn’t see a doctor right away. To protect your health and your claim, see a doctor as soon as possible.
3. Gather Evidence at the Scene
If you’re physically able, gathering evidence at the scene can be critical for supporting your case later on. Start by exchanging information with the other driver, including:
- Full name and contact details
- Driver’s license number
- Insurance company and policy number
- Vehicle make, model, and license plate number
It’s also important to document the scene of the accident. Use your phone to take photos of the following:
- Damage to all vehicles involved
- Any visible injuries you or your passengers sustained
- Road conditions, traffic signals, skid marks, or any other relevant environmental factors
If there were any witnesses, ask for their contact information as well. Their statements could be valuable if you need to prove what happened later on.
4. Notify Your Insurance Company
After you’ve left the scene of the accident, you’ll need to notify your insurance company as soon as possible. Most insurance companies have a time limit for reporting accidents, so don’t delay. When you make the report, stick to the facts and avoid speculating about who was at fault. Anything you say to the insurance company could be used to reduce or deny your claim later.
It’s also a good idea to avoid giving a recorded statement or signing any documents before speaking to an Austin car wreck attorney. Insurance adjusters may try to get you to accept a quick settlement that doesn’t fully cover your losses.
5. Consult with an Austin Car Wreck Attorney
Navigating the legal complexities of a car accident claim can be challenging, especially if you’re dealing with injuries. Consulting with an experienced car wreck attorney in Austin can help ensure your rights are protected and that you receive fair compensation for your medical bills, lost wages, and other damages.
An attorney will help you gather and organize the evidence needed for your claim, negotiate with insurance companies, and, if necessary, represent you in court. They can also help you understand the unique laws in Texas that could impact your case, such as the state’s fault-based insurance system and the statute of limitations for filing a personal injury claim, which is two years from the date of the accident.
For more information on how a car wreck attorney can assist you, visit the Texas Department of Insurance to understand more about Texas insurance claims.
6. Avoid Social Media and Keep Records
After an accident, it’s important to avoid posting on social media about the crash or your injuries. Insurance adjusters often monitor social media for posts that can be used to undermine your claim. For example, if you post photos of yourself engaged in physical activities, it could be used as evidence that your injuries aren’t as severe as you claim.
In addition, keep a detailed record of all accident-related expenses and medical treatments. Save receipts for car repairs, medical bills, and any other costs you incur as a result of the accident. This will help your attorney calculate the full extent of your damages.
Looking for an Austin Car Wreck Attorney?
Being involved in a car accident can be a traumatic experience, but taking the right steps immediately after can protect your legal rights and help you secure fair compensation. If you’ve been injured in a car wreck in Austin, don’t hesitate to contact an experienced attorney at Slingshot Law. We’re here to guide you through every step of the process and ensure that your rights are fully protected.For more guidance on car accident claims, you can also visit the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) for additional safety and legal resources.