In 2019, a total of 439,388 motor vehicle crashes and accidents were reported in Texas. Many of these accidents involved fatalities and serious injuries, besides extensive vehicle and property damage. What if you have the misfortune of getting injured in such an accident? What should you do if the accident happened because of someone’s fault? Should you report the accident? When and why should you hire a Houston car accident attorney? In this post, we are discussing some of these basic aspects.
- Reporting the accident
Texas laws require you to report the accident within 10 days, if a police officer didn’t investigate the matter. This is a must for any accident that resulted in injuries and/or vehicle/property damage. If the other driver wants to talk you out of doing the same, be very cautious. A police report will always help your case.
- Gather evidence
Following the accident, if you are in your senses, you should consider gathering evidence. Take photos of the accident site, check for all the other details like presence of witnesses and possible reasons that may have triggered the crash. Ask contact details and addresses of other drivers and everyone involved. And yes, do not give a statement or admit anything, no matter who is asking.
- Inform the insurance company
Texas is an at-fault state, which means that the party at fault will pay compensation for losses suffered by a victim, through their insurance company or otherwise. Make sure that you inform your insurer and the at-fault party’s insurer within a reasonable time. Like other states, Texas also has a statute of limitations, which allows two years to file personal injury lawsuits against the at-fault party, from the date of accident. However, the statute of limitations doesn’t apply to insurance claims.
- Call a car accident lawyer
While there is no law that states that you have to hire a car accident lawyer for your case in Houston, but this could be hugely advantageous. Your attorney will guide on filing the claim, handle the investigation, and ensure that your rights and interests are protected. Dealing with the claims adjuster could be overwhelming, but with a lawyer, you can rest and recover, while they handle negotiations with the insurance company.
Don’t delay in taking action after a car accident. You would want evidence and details that can help in establishing fault and liability. Contact an attorney at the earliest.
“modified comparative fault” rule
