Car accidents can be life-changing and stressful. Therefore, it’s paramount to seek assistance from a personal injury Lawyer in Austin, TX, as they can help ensure that your health, rights, and even your finances are catered for. Below is a detailed guide on how to deal with an accident.
Calm Yourself and Look Around
The prerequisite of acting first after an accident is ensuring that you are calm. If you or the passengers feel pain, try to give yourself a short examination or assist them first, and avoid moving much as that could exacerbate the issue.
Move to a Safe Location
If your vehicle is blocking the traffic, and the conditions permit it then drive it to the side of the road. Activate your emergency lights so that other road users are made aware of the circumstances. If you are in a vehicle that cannot be driven, then wait inside the vehicle for assistance.
Get Police Assistance
It does not matter if the accident was minor or major, make sure to call the police regardless. An official accident report will be prepared by the police, which is essential for insurance claims and possible court prosecutions. If someone is hurt, they should be taken to the hospital immediately.
Exchange Information with Other Drivers
Make sure to take other driver’s information such as names, phone numbers, home addresses, insurance details, and registration of their vehicles.
Document the Accident Scene
Take several pictures of the accident. A picture of the damages of the vehicle, images or evidence of any road injuries, traffic signs as well as license plates are necessary for the legal evidence.
Avoid Admitting Fault
Do not ever accept blame, even when you think you are “x” percent to blame for the accident. Phrases such as “I didn’t see you” or ‘It was my fault’ should be avoided completely. When interacting with police or other drivers, keep your statements factual.
Collect Witness Information
In case there are people who have witnessed the accident, you should ask for their names and their contact numbers. Witness statements might offer important evidence to support your argument in court.
Go See A Doctor
Always seek medical attention, even if you feel fine. Whiplash and internal trauma are examples of injuries that might take a while to show. A medical report may also be used as proof in the event that you file a personal injury lawsuit.
Notify Your Insurance Company
Call your insurance company to inform them of the accident as soon as possible. Do not provide statements that have been recorded without the consent of a lawyer.
Consult a Personal Injury Lawyer in Austin, TX
If you happen to be injured in the collision, it is advised to see a personal injury lawyer in Austin, Texas. A lawyer can help you understand your rights, negotiate with insurance companies, and seek reasonable payment for medical expenses, missed pay, and mental suffering.
Dealing with a Car Accident
Being in a car accident is something that is completely unexpected and out of your control. Taking the appropriate actions can have a big impact on your legal outcome and recovery. To safeguard your rights and obtain just compensation, always put safety first, keep thorough records, and speak with a personal injury lawyer in Austin, Texas.
