Being involved in a car accident is a frightening experience. No one expects such an occurrence, yet the incident can transpire in a trice, whether you caused the accident or it was another motorist’s fault. Moreover, the period after the incident can feel chaotic, and you may not know how to deal with injuries, damaged vehicles, or the other driver.
Fortunately, this guide by a reputable Texas car crash lawyer will take you through the six critical steps after an accident and the things to avoid.
What Should You Do After an Accident?
You may be shaken up right after the accident, no matter how serious it is. Therefore, it helps if you know the next moves you should make. Generally, here are the steps:
Stop and Stay Calm
You’ll likely feel tempted to continue driving to catch up with that appointment or just avoid the hassle. But never leave the scene, even if it’s a simple incident. Instead, stay calm and check whether you or anyone in your car is injured.
Pull Over
Next, you’ll pull over the car to the roadside and protect the scene by keeping your flashers on or setting up flares.
Assess for Damage
Once your car is safely parked, and the scene is secure, you’ll check for damage to your car and the other vehicles involved in the crash.
Reach Out to Law Enforcement
You’ll need to notify the relevant authorities about the accident. A law enforcement official will assess the scene comprehensively and give you a police report that’s crucial when making claims.
Exchange Contact Details
Next, you’ll want to pick the other driver’s contact details as you will discuss a lot in the next few days (or months) depending on the injuries sustained and recorded damages.
Contact your Attorney
Finally, you should find a reliable Texas car accident attorney who will review your case and guide you on the next steps.
Things to Avoid After an Accident
The steps you take significantly impact the outcome of the entire situation, so you must be careful with your actions. Here are the things to avoid:
- Fleeing – The law requires motorists to stay at the crash location as long as it’s safe or you risk facing criminal charges.
- Insurer communication – This is a crucial period where everything you say matters, so avoid having a recorded conversation with your insurer for now.
- Apologizing – Avoid incriminating statements like “I’m sorry” at the crash scene, as they may be considered an admission of fault.
- Discussing your injuries – Even if you don’t feel hurt, you should not comment on your physical state until you visit your doctor.
- Discussing damage payments – Never make deals about damage payments until you’re sure of the entire amount.
- Failing to involve an attorney – The case might seem small, but you still need a Texas attorney to protect your rights and guide you.
Parting Shot
If you were involved in a crash, don’t fret. Car accidents happen on Texas roads every year. Following all the right steps after the accident will protect you from blame and help you get a favorable outcome. Reach out to our attorneys today for apt guidance.
