Driving on Houston roadways can be risky. Whenever you are in a vehicle, you face the possibility of getting into a serious auto accident. Whether it is a minor “fender bender” or a high-impact collision, knowing what to do afterward will help you avoid worse injuries and protect your rights.
At Maverick Ray & Associates, we represent individuals who have been injured in car accidents of all kinds. We are fierce protectors of our clients, fighting hard to get you the compensation you deserve. If you’ve been in a car accident, contact our office at (281) 843-1663 for a free, no-obligation consultation.
What Do I Do After a Car Accident?
Being involved in a car crash is a frightening experience. One moment you are driving along, and the next, you are injured, and your car is smashed. Although it is hard to keep your cool after an auto accident, it is important to take a deep breath and follow these steps:
- Get to safety – If you can do so without causing further injury, move yourself and others to a safe place, away from oncoming cars or other hazards. If possible, move your car to the side of the road so you are not blocking traffic.
- Call 911 – Call the police to report the crash and any injuries. When the officers arrive, give them an accurate account of what happened immediately before, during, and after the crash.
- See a doctor – If you are not taken to the hospital by emergency personnel, we strongly urge you to seek a medical evaluation as soon as possible. Shock and adrenaline often mask the symptoms of your injuries, so it is vital to have a thorough exam to identify and treat your injuries.
- Obtain contact information of those involved – Write down the drivers’ names, phone numbers, addresses, driver’s licenses, and insurance details. Be sure to get the contact information of all passengers and eyewitnesses.
- Document the scene – If you have a cell-phone or camera, take photographs of the accident scene and all vehicles involved, focusing on the vehicles’ positions and any damage, road hazards, skid marks, etc.
- Contact your insurance company – Regardless of fault, it is essential to contact your insurance company and report the accident. It is best to be concise and only give them the necessary information. Be sure not to say you are sorry or admit fault.
- Consult with an attorney – We strongly recommend speaking to an experienced car accident lawyer following a crash. They will handle all communication with the insurance companies and any third parties, and ensure nothing is said or done that could negatively impact your case. They will also provide expert guidance should one of the involved parties take legal action.
What If the Car Accident Was My Fault?
It’s only human to make mistakes. At Maverick Ray and Associates, we understand it is extremely stressful when you are believed to be at fault for an accident. You might be wondering how it will turn out and if there is anything you can do to help your situation. The good news is you and your attorney can take action to help you avoid or minimize any consequences.
- Do NOT admit fault – Even in situations where they are not at fault, many drivers will automatically apologize or take some, if not all of the blame for the crash. Whatever you do, do not admit you were in any way responsible for the accident or say you are sorry.
- Stay off of social media – Despite the temptation to share your story, remember that the other party’s insurance company will likely look at social media outlets to obtain information supporting their claim. Do not post pictures or give any details of the accident. Additionally, we recommend not posting anything until the case is resolved. Even seemingly unrelated posts might provide the other party with information they can use against you.
- Do not discuss the accident with anyone – Despite your desire to talk to your family and friends about what happened, we strongly recommend you refrain from speaking to anyone, except your attorney. You must remember that anything you say can and will be used against you.
- Hire an attorney – We cannot stress enough the importance of having skilled legal representation in a situation like this. You need to take every measure to protect your rights and best interests, and the first step is seeking legal representation.
I Heard That Texas Is an At-fault State. What Does That Mean?
Texas is an at-fault state, meaning the party or parties at fault for an accident (and their insurance companies) are responsible for the injured party’s damages. If you were injured by someone else’s negligence, you have the right to seek compensation. In turn, if you caused an accident that resulted in another party’s injuries, you and your insurance company will likely be held responsible for their damages.
What If I Was Driving Under the Influence at the Time of the Accident?
Few situations are worse than causing an accident while driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs. The long-term effects of an auto accident are overwhelming. Adding alcohol into the equation makes the situation even more devastating. However, do not admit fault before consulting with a lawyer. Contact our office for expert legal counsel from a DWI lawyer.
If you cause a car accident while driving drunk, you can expect some serious consequences. You may be looking at a misdemeanor conviction; however, if serious injuries result from the accident, you may face a felony. Still, there are things you can do to prevent or minimize the penalties associated with a Houston, Texas DWI.
Again, it is crucial not to admit fault to anyone, especially the insurance company. Stay off social media and don’t discuss the details of your accident with family, friends or coworkers. Still, the best thing you can do if you have been accused of driving under the influence and causing a car crash is to get legal representation as soon as possible.
Why Should I Hire Maverick Ray & Associates?
Whether you sustained injuries in a car accident or need help defending yourself against a car accident claim or DWI charges, a qualified lawyer from Maverick Ray & Associates will take immediate steps to protect your legal rights. Contact us at (281) 843-1663 today to arrange a free, confidential consultation.
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