According to the Association for Safe International Road Travel, approximately 1.19 million people die and millions more are injured or disabled each year in auto accidents in the United States. For Texas specifically, the Department of Transportation reports that a crash occurs every 66.5 seconds.
No matter what city you live in, wrecks are an ever-present danger when on the road. Having a trusted Houston car accident attorney in your corner can help you navigate the complicated legal and insurance processes following any type of collision.
This guide will walk you through the key steps to take after an accident, how an attorney can help, and what to look for when selecting the right lawyer for your case.
Seeking Medical Attention After an Accident in Houston
The moments and hours after an auto accident can be quite chaotic. However, it’s crucial to prioritize medical attention above all else. Even if you don’t think you were seriously injured, the effects of whiplash, concussions, and internal bleeding often take time to fully set in. Getting checked out by a doctor as soon as possible creates a record of your injuries and symptoms. This official documentation can serve as vital evidence if you choose to pursue legal action later.
Regarding long-term health effects, early diagnosis and treatment increase the chances of making a full recovery. For example, 15 million people globally live with a spinal cord injury, and many of these cases are due to car accidents. Prompt medical treatment is key to recovery success.
Collecting Evidence from the Scene
While emergency medical care might take precedence, you’ll also want to make sure key evidence is collected and documented from the scene of the accident. An experienced attorney can provide guidance on gathering the right evidence.
Deciding Whether to Involve the Houston, TX Police
Many minor collisions don’t necessarily require calling the Houston police. However, it’s generally a good idea to file an official report for any accident involving major vehicle damage, injuries, or disputes over who was at fault. A police report creates an objective record of the incident and can help resolve insurance claims. Most officers will interview the parties involved and write up their own assessment of how the collision transpired.
While the final police report is not definitive, insurance companies will take it into consideration when deciding payouts and liability.
Choosing the Right Houston Attorney
According to Ryan Zehl, a Houston car accident attorney, if injuries or vehicle damage exceed a certain threshold, consulting with a qualified lawyer is highly recommended. They have extensive expertise in state laws, legal procedures, negotiating with insurance providers, and determining fair compensation.
Look for a car crash lawyer in Houston with specific experience in handling auto accident and injury cases in your area – laws vary significantly from state to state. Also, verify that they have a strong track record of favorable settlements and jury awards. Don’t leave the outcome of your case to chance – partner with a local legal team that’s proven they can win.
The aftermath of any auto collision can be extremely stressful. Fortunately, working with an adept Houston car accident lawyer can simplify the process and ease your worries. Focus on recovery, while letting your attorney handle the legal intricacies and insurance negotiations. With their guidance and expertise, you can obtain the maximum compensation you deserve.
Main Photo by Kevin Hernandez on Unsplash. Car image by Netto Figueiredo from Pixabay
