Car Accident Lawyer in Houston Can Maximize the Value of Your Claim
If you're involved in a vehicle accident, it's important to take certain steps and talk with an attorney as soon as possible. Your Houston lawyer for car accidents will maximize the value of your claim.
Insurance companies are more concerned with their own financial interests. An experienced lawyer for car accidents can help balance the playing field. They can help you avoid pitfalls such as medical bills that are taken from your settlement.
What should you do following a car crash
Whether you are hurt or not, it is important to remain calm in the aftermath of a car crash. You shouldn't drive away from your vehicle unless you are sure it is safe. Medical professionals must treat injured people immediately and the police must arrive to file an official report.
Once you're out of your vehicle, you should take photos or video of the scene. This can aid your accident lawyer in houston determine the cause of the accident and then prove it in court. It's also recommended to take pictures of the cars involved, the condition of the road and any other relevant details.
While you're at it exchange details with all those involved in the crash. This includes their name, phone number, insurance company, and driver's licence number. It is also advisable to inquire about witnesses present and obtain their names and contact details. If they have a driver's license, be sure to obtain the license plate number as well.
You should also record any information you remember, before your memory deteriorates. This may include how the crash happened, what time it was and the location where the accident took place. It's a good idea to note the weather conditions, as well.
If you are able, it's a good idea to get as many photographs of the scene as you can, particularly if there are any witnesses on the scene. You can take pictures with your mobile phone or if you're incapacitated request a trusted friend to help you. Try to take close-up photos of the damage to the cars as well as distant shots of the scene.
Make sure to take photos of any skid marks or damaged guardrails at the scene. You should also take pictures of any visible injuries that you may have sustained in the accident. Examine yourself and your passengers for any cuts or scrapes. If you're able take photos of any injuries or bruises. Finally, be sure to get an official copy of the police report. This is important if you are sued by the other driver.
Call the Police
Houstonians sit in their cars on a daily basis and drive. Others travel around on foot or on bicycles. While they are following the rules of the road, it's only one driver who is negligent to cause a serious car accident. The repercussions of this could be devastating. In the event of an accident it is crucial to know what steps you should immediately following an accident to protect yourself and your rights.
One of the most important things to do following a crash is to call the authorities and report the incident. This will ensure that a police officer will be at the scene and create an accurate report that will be valuable for insurance purposes or legal issues that could arise after the accident.
Witnesses should also be questioned. It is crucial to gather eyewitness statements immediately, even if witnesses leave the scene before an officer arrives. This will allow your lawyer to follow up on the witnesses and obtain their testimony in the future, if needed.
Photograph the scene if possible. This is a crucial step that is possible with a smartphone or digital camera. Your attorney can make use of pictures of the vehicles and skid marks, as well as other items.
You should also note the names of the drivers involved and their license plate numbers and their insurance information. This will help your lawyer determine who is responsible for the accident. It will also prove any injuries that you or other drivers may have sustained.
In the end, it is important to seek medical attention if you need it. Even minor injuries, such as whiplash, can have a long-term impact on your health, and can get worse in time. Seeing a doctor immediately is also a good idea to document any injuries you suffered in the accident.
It is recommended to move your vehicle off the road following a crash if safe to do so. If Charleston accident lawsuit can't move your car, then surround it with reflective signs. This will stop other drivers from crashing into your vehicle in the near future. It will allow you to collect additional damages in a personal injury case against another party.
Get Medical Attention
It's important to seek medical attention as soon following the event of a car crash as soon as is possible. Regardless of whether you think your injuries are serious or not, visiting a doctor will help you determine and treat any ailments that may be arising due to the collision. Furthermore, a medical evaluation will serve as evidence of your injuries should you ever need to make an insurance claim or lawsuit.
In many cases, the effects of injuries resulting caused by a car accident might not be evident until hours, days or even weeks following the crash. Stress can cause our bodies to release hormones that mask discomfort for a short period of time. What may feel like a minor bump or ache immediate aftermath of a crash could be a chronic condition if left untreated.
When you go to see an ophthalmologist following a car accident medical professional will conduct a thorough exam and ask you an array of questions regarding how you feel prior to and after the accident. Make sure to answer honestly so that the doctor can give the most accurate evaluation of your injuries.
If your injuries are not life-threatening, you can decide between going to an emergency room at a hospital or to an urgent care center. Both will provide the medical attention you require and will also provide documentation of your injuries to help with the insurance claim or legal proceeding.
Some people aren't seeking medical attention because they believe that injuries will heal by themselves, or the injury was caused by something other than an accident. But, not seeking medical treatment can have adverse consequences for your health and your ability to secure compensation for damages.
Do not discuss the incident to anyone, even the other driver. Anything you say could be used against you in court or in negotiations for an agreement. Take photos of the scene of the accident and any injuries you might have suffered. Also, keep copies of all your medical bills, repair estimates, and invoices.
Contact an attorney
If you've been injured in a crash, or lost a loved one in the event of a fatal crash, an Houston attorney for car accidents can help. You may be entitled for significant compensation for injuries and medical expenses.
Find an attorney experienced in representing victims of auto accidents to assess your case. You can find lawyers by asking family and friends, searching online, or contacting your local bar association. After you've identified several candidates to talk to, set up a consultation to discuss your case.
Car accident injuries can be catastrophic, and it is crucial to contact an attorney as soon as possible after the crash. A reputable lawyer will assess your case and assist in filing a claim against the insurance company of the negligent party. They can also represent you in court, should you need to.
A Houston lawyer for car accidents who is experienced will know what to look for in the police report as well as other evidence. They also know how to calculate damages like future medical expenses, lost income in all forms and damage to the vehicle and other property. They will be able negotiate with your insurance company on your behalf and push for fair compensation.
Insurance companies can act in bad faith, which could include low-ball offers or refusing to pay a valid claim. An attorney can act as your advocate and advisor, ensuring you do not be ripped off.
In addition an attorney can assist you recover non-economic damages, like pain and suffering. This can be difficult to prove, but an experienced lawyer can provide an extensive medical evaluation of your injuries to present a compelling case, potentially leading to a bigger settlement.
An experienced Houston car accident attorney will provide you with the support and peace of mind that you require following a crash. Contact the Smith & Hassler law firm to talk to an attorney about your case. They have over 30 years of experience achieving results for their clients and are prepared to take on your case.