Did you know that Houston, despite its vibrant energy and bustling streets, witnesses over 65,000 car accidents annually?
Knowing what to do immediately after a car accident in Houston isn’t just practical; it’s a crucial life skill.
Imagine you’re driving down one of Houston’s busy avenues, maybe the Katy Freeway or the Southwest Freeway, and suddenly, the unexpected occurs. What do you do next?
This checklist is designed to be your companion in those unexpected moments. They contain clear, simple steps that anyone can follow after a car accident in Houston.
1. Move to safety
If you’re on a lively street, the first course of action would be to get yourself and, if possible, your vehicle to safety.
Houston’s traffic can be a bit wild, and you don’t want to add more chaos to your current situation.
2. Check for injuries
Do a quick body check as soon as you’re safe. If you’ve got children or vulnerable adults with you, be sure to thoroughly examine them to see if they need any urgent care. Ask them how they’re feeling. Record their answers while you wait for the ambulance.
3. Call the police
The police typically arrive on their own if the accident happens on a busy street. But if you’re in a deserted lane, you might have to give them a call.
When the police are involved, you’ll get an official record. They’ll help you investigate the scene, and their findings can be beneficial to your personal injury claim, should you choose to file one.
4. Exchange information
It’s always best to get the contact details of the other party involved in the accident. You’ll need to reach out to them afterward to negotiate how to sort out the damages. Collect cards, names, phone numbers, and addresses.
In cases of hit-and-run, the duty falls on the police and your attorney to locate the culprit and bring them to justice.
5. Document the scene
Bring out your cameras and take photos of the accident scene. These pictures will help you paint a vivid picture for the judge, jury, and all others involved in signing off on your compensation.
6. Do not admit fault no matter what
Make sure that you do not say anything that implies that you were somewhat responsible for the accident. Any utterance you make can be used against you.
Stand your ground when they come to probe you. If they spot any inconsistency in your story, they can poke holes in your testimony and railroad you into perjuring yourself.
7. Contact your insurance company
Inform your insurance company about the accident as soon as you can. Houston roads are unpredictable, but your insurance company can serve as your anchor amid all the uncertainties that come with living in this bustling city.
8. Get proper medical care
You need proper medical care to rule out the possibility of any underlying condition as a result of the car accident.
Do not refuse to go with the ambulance. You may not know it, but there might be an internal complication that will spiral out of control if not medically checked.
The medical reports will also serve as solid evidence in your pursuit of compensation.
9. Reach out to an attorney
When the road gets rough after a Houston car accident, reaching out to an attorney is a wise move. Think of it as seeking a guide through the complex terrain.
Consulting an attorney early on ensures you have the right support to navigate insurance claims and potential legal actions.
It doesn’t matter if you’re in an at-fault or no-fault state; getting an attorney on your side is your safest bet.