Car accidents are hopefully not common occurrences in your life, so it is natural that most people are not aware of the necessary steps to take after being involved in one. Tensions are high and it is very easy to point fingers at the other driver or drivers involved. If involved in an auto accident, it is important to keep in mind several things that can help protect your rights to financial recovery.
Stop and Breathe
Many accidents can cause injury to drivers, passengers, and even pedestrians. If involved in an auto accident, it is important to first make sure that any of the involved parties are not severely injured to the point where the injuries would require immediate medical treatment. If an airbag goes off, chances are the individual in the vehicle may need an ambulance. If the accident is severe enough that a vehicle is totaled, call 911 immediately.
Never Talk About Fault
After being involved in an auto accident, individuals are quick to blame one another for causing the accident. It is important to limit any discussion concerning fault or liability when talking about the accident with anyone who may have been involved. This includes individuals who may have witnessed the accident. When negotiating a claim settlement with an insurance company, there are no rules of evidence that must be followed, as opposed to those imposed in a court of law. This means that an insurance company can essentially use any type of evidence as a basis for negotiation. Hence, it is ill-advised to immediately apologize for rear-ending someone and offer to pay for the damages caused. Leave this discussion for the attorneys and insurance adjusters.
Keep Track of Medical Bills and Other Damages
It is important to keep detailed and organized records of any and all damages that stem from the accident. The most common example of records to keep are medical records, which can include emergency room bills, doctor’s bills, prescription costs, and rehabilitation costs. If these damages can be attributed to the accident, then the injured victim is entitled to monetary compensation. Recovery will not be provided if the damages are not clear. This is why keeping a detailed account of all medical-related costs is critical.
In addition to medical records, it is important to keep track of any damages to the vehicle itself. Make sure to take clear, high-resolution pictures of any damages to the car as this will help convince an insurance company as to how much money is owed.
Call a Houston Car Accident Lawyer for More Information
Accidents can occur in the blink of an eye and can be very scary experiences. If you or a loved one has been involved in a car accident, contact an experienced auto accident lawyer today to discuss your case. The office of Stewart J. Guss regularly represents injured accident victims, so please call us at 800-898-4877 for a free consultation today.