The Steps to Take After a Car Accident
If you’re reading this, you’re likely already involved in a car accident. You’ve dealt with the shock, received medical care, and are now focused on recovering. However, as you work through the healing process, your attention will likely turn to the next big question: How can I get compensated for my injuries and losses?
The truth is, while you’ve already taken the necessary steps to get medical treatment, the aftermath of a car accident can be overwhelming. Medical bills, lost income, and ongoing recovery expenses may leave you struggling financially. This is where a car accident lawyer becomes your most valuable ally. This blog will discuss why consulting a personal injury lawyer is essential during your recovery and how it can help you obtain compensation for your injuries.
If You Are Still at the Accident Scene
If you are still at the accident scene, there are several critical steps you need to take to protect your rights and ensure that the insurance company can properly assess the situation. These steps will help you build a strong case should you need to pursue compensation for injuries or damage.
- Call 911 and Report the Accident: If you haven’t already, call the police immediately. Whether it’s a minor collision or a major crash, it’s imperative to report the accident to the police. The officers will document the scene and create an official police report, which will be crucial when filing your claim with the insurance company.
- Document the Scene: Take pictures of the damage to your vehicle and others involved in the accident. Take photos of the surrounding area, road conditions, weather, and other relevant details. These photos will serve as vital evidence for your claim, showing exactly what happened during the collision.
- Exchange Insurance Information: Be sure to exchange insurance information with the other driver(s) involved. This should include the policy number, coverage details, and the insurance company name. You’ll also want to note the motorist’s contact details, license plate number, and driver’s license number.
- Don’t Admit Fault: Even if you feel responsible for the accident, it’s important not to admit fault at the scene. Exchange information and let the insurance company and the authorities investigate the incident. Any admission of fault could hurt your case down the line.
- Check for Uninsured Motorists: If the other driver doesn’t have insurance or their coverage is inadequate, it’s essential to make sure you have uninsured or underinsured motorist coverage in your policy. This will help you cover your medical bills and property damage if the other driver is at fault but lacks sufficient insurance coverage.
These steps ensure you have the necessary documentation to work with your insurance company and car accident lawyer. This can significantly affect the outcome of your personal injury case, helping you secure the compensation you deserve.
The Importance of Hiring a Car Accident Lawyer
After a car crash, one of the first things you should consider, especially if you’ve sustained significant injuries, is hiring an experienced car accident lawyer. Why? Because the legal process can be complex, and without proper representation, you may not get the full compensation you deserve.
In the days following the accident, you’ll likely be overwhelmed with medical appointments, physical therapy, and possibly even ongoing treatments. At the same time, insurance companies will work hard to minimize the payout you’re entitled to, often offering settlements far below what you’re owed. A car accident lawyer can help you navigate these challenges by ensuring that all your injuries and losses are accurately documented and that you’re fully compensated for them.
How an Attorney Helps with Compensation for Your Injuries
You’ve already received medical treatment and may be focused on getting better, but that doesn’t mean your medical bills, lost wages, and emotional distress magically disappear. Here’s how a personal injury lawyer can help:
- Medical Bills: Even after insurance, medical costs can pile up quickly. Your lawyer will work to ensure that your medical expenses, including long-term care and rehabilitation, are covered in your personal injury case. They’ll negotiate with insurance companies to ensure they pay their share, so you’re not stuck with the burden of outstanding medical bills.
- Lost Wages: If you cannot return to work or have missed significant time, you may be entitled to compensation for your lost income. A car accident lawyer can help calculate the value of your lost wages, including future earnings, if your ability to work has been permanently affected by your injuries.
- Pain and Suffering: Beyond the physical injuries, a car accident can cause significant emotional distress, anxiety, and pain. Your lawyer can help you quantify these non-economic damages and fight for the compensation you deserve.
- Property Damage: If your vehicle was damaged or totaled in the accident, your lawyer will ensure that the costs for repairs or replacement are included in your claim. Even if you have collision coverage, your attorney can help ensure you’re fully compensated, mainly if the other driver was at fault and insurance is involved.
Why Insurance Companies Can’t Be Trusted to Protect Your Interests
You may think you're covered since you’ve filed a claim with your insurance company or the other driver’s insurance company. But the truth is that insurance companies are in the business of paying as little as possible. They might offer you a low settlement early on to close the case quickly before you fully understand the full extent of your injuries or recovery needs.
An experienced personal injury attorney knows how to assess your case’s value and can help you avoid accepting a settlement that doesn’t cover all your damages. They’ll work with medical professionals to document the ongoing impact of your injuries and ensure that the settlement you receive reflects the total amount of damages, including any future medical expenses or lost wages you may incur.
The Statute of Limitations: Don’t Wait Too Long to Act
One critical reason to consult with a car accident lawyer as soon as possible is the statute of limitations. In Texas, you generally have two years from the accident date to file a lawsuit for personal injury. Waiting too long to get legal help can risk missing this deadline, making it impossible to pursue a claim in the future. Personal injury lawyers are well-versed in these timelines and can help ensure all necessary documents are filed on time.
Dealing with Uninsured or Underinsured Motorists
Unfortunately, not all drivers carry adequate auto insurance. In Texas, many drivers are uninsured or underinsured, which can complicate your claim if the other driver caused the accident. If you find yourself in this situation, a personal injury lawyer can help you understand how to proceed with your uninsured or underinsured motorist coverage, which may be included in your policy. A skilled attorney will guide you through these complicated insurance issues to maximize your compensation.
Why Your Lawyer is Crucial for Your Recovery
You’ve been through a traumatic experience and are focusing on recovering. The last thing you need is to deal with the hassle of negotiating with insurance companies, filling out complicated forms, or stressing over missed deadlines. A car accident lawyer takes the burden off your shoulders so you can focus on what matters: getting better.
Moreover, your lawyer can provide peace of mind during a stressful time. They will advocate for you, handle the paperwork, and fight for the compensation that reflects the severity of your injuries and losses.
What to Expect When Working with a Car Accident Lawyer
When you hire a Texas car accident lawyer, here’s what you can expect:
- Free Consultation: Most personal injury attorneys offer free consultations so that you can discuss your case without any obligation.
- Case Evaluation: Your lawyer will assess your case, determine the likely value of your claim, and give you a clear idea of your options moving forward.
- No Upfront Fees: Many personal injury lawyers work on a contingency fee basis, meaning you don’t pay unless you win your case. This is crucial if you’re already facing financial strain due to your injuries.
- Negotiation: Your lawyer will handle all communication with the insurance companies and negotiate a fair settlement on your behalf.
- Litigation: If necessary, your attorney will take your case to court to ensure you receive the compensation you deserve.
Take the First Step Toward Recovery
While you’re focused on recovering physically, hiring a car accident lawyer is the crucial first step toward recovering financially. Whether you’re dealing with medical bills, lost wages, or property damage, a lawyer will help guide you through the claims process, protect your rights, and ensure you get the compensation you deserve. Don’t wait—contact an experienced personal injury lawyer in Texas today at Francis Injury by calling 817-329-9001 to start building your case.