Car Accident Lawyer in Houston Can Maximize the Value of Your Claim
If you're in a car accident, you must follow certain steps and speak with an attorney as soon as you can. Your Houston lawyer for car accidents can help maximize the value of your claim.
Insurance companies are focused on their own financial interests, but an experienced lawyer for car accidents is able to balance the playing field. They can help you avoid pitfalls like medical bills that come out of your settlement check.
What to do after a car crash
It is important to stay calm after an accident, whether you are injured or not. You shouldn't leave your car unless it is safe. People injured need to be treated by medical professionals immediately, and police need to arrive to provide an official report.
Take photos or videos of the scene as you exit your vehicle. This can assist your accident lawyer in Houston determine what actually happened and then prove that in court. It's also a good idea to capture photos of the cars involved, the condition of the road and any other relevant information.
While you're at it, exchange details with all those involved in the crash. This includes their name, phone number the insurance company, their name, and driver's license number. It is also advisable to inquire about any witnesses who were present, and get their names and contact details. Also, you should get the license number if they have an active driving license.
You should also record any information you remember, before your memory fades. This may include how the crash occurred, what time it was and the location of the crash. It is also important to note the conditions of the weather.
If you are able, it's an ideal idea to take as many pictures of the scene as you can, especially in the event that there are witnesses on the scene. You can use your cell phone to take these photos, or if you are disabled following the accident, ask a witness to take your picture for you. Try to take close-up shots of the cars' damage and distant shots of the scene.
Make sure to take photos of any skid marks or damaged guardrails on the scene. Also, you should take pictures of any visible injuries that you may have sustained in the accident. Check yourself and your passengers for any scrapes or cuts. You can also take photos of any bruises or other injuries. Make sure to obtain a copy of the police report. This will be useful in the event that the other driver sues you over the collision.
Call Peoria accident lawyers get in their cars every day and drive. Some people choose to walk or ride a bike on the streets. Even if you observe the rules of the road one driver's negligence can lead to a serious accident. The consequences of this can be devastating. In the event of an accident, it's important to know what steps to take right away following an accident to protect yourself and your rights.
One of the most important things to do after a crash is to call the authorities and report the accident. This will ensure that a police officer is on the scene and create a detailed report which can be extremely valuable to insurance purposes or legal issues that might arise following the accident.
It is also crucial to interview witnesses. While some people might leave the scene before a police officer arrives, it's essential to gather eyewitness statements as soon as possible. This will enable your attorney to follow up on the witnesses and get their testimony in the event of a need.
Take photos of the scene if possible. This is an essential step that can be done with either a digital camera or mobile phone. Pictures of the skid marks, vehicles and other things can be used as evidence for your attorney.
You should also take note of the names of the drivers involved as well as their license plate numbers and their insurance details. This will help your lawyer determine who is responsible for the accident. It will also prove any injuries you or other drivers may have sustained.
In the end, it is important to request medical attention if necessary. Even minor injuries such as whiplash can cause a long-lasting impact on your health. They can also become worse over time. A visit to a doctor as soon as possible will also record any injuries that you sustained during the accident.
If it's safe, you should also remove your vehicle from the road following a collision. If you can't move your vehicle, you should surround it with reflective signs. This will stop other drivers from crashing into your vehicle in the future, and it will also help you get more damages in an injury claim against a third party.
Get Medical Attention
If you've been involved in a car accident it is imperative to seek medical attention as quickly as you can. Whatever the severity you believe your injuries to be an appointment with a doctor can help you identify any conditions that have developed due to the incident. Additionally, a medical evaluation can be used as proof of your injuries should you need to make an insurance claim or lawsuit.
In many cases, the effects of injuries resulting from a car crash may not manifest until hours, days, or even weeks after the crash. Stress can trigger our bodies to release hormones which mask discomfort for a short period of time. What appears to be an unimportant bump or ache immediate aftermath of a crash could turn into a debilitating condition if it is not treated.
When you go to see the doctor following a car accident the doctor will conduct a thorough examination and ask you an array of questions regarding the way you feel prior to and after the collision. Be sure to answer the questions honestly so that the doctor can provide the most accurate evaluation of your injuries.
If your injuries do not present a risk to your life you can select between an emergency room at the hospital or an urgent care center. Both will offer you the medical treatment you require, and will also provide documentation of your injuries to aid in an insurance claim or a legal proceeding.
Some people are hesitant to seek medical attention due to the belief that their injuries will heal by themselves or that the cause of their injuries is something else aside from the accident. Not seeking medical attention could be detrimental to your health as well as your ability to receive compensation for damages.
Avoid discussing the incident to anyone, not even the other driver. Anything you say could be used against your interests in court or when negotiating an agreement. Take photos of the accident site and any injuries you may have sustained. Also, keep copies of all medical bills, repair estimates, and invoices.
Contact an attorney
A Houston car accident lawyer can help if you have been injured or lost a loved in an accident that killed someone. You could be entitled to substantial compensation for injuries, medical expenses, and other damages.
Find an attorney with experience in representing victims of auto accidents who can evaluate your case. You can find an attorney by asking your family and friends or searching on the internet, or by contact your local bar association. Once you've found several candidates, set up a consultation to discuss your situation and make a decision.
Car accident injuries can be catastrophic, and it is crucial to contact a lawyer immediately following the accident. A reputable lawyer will assess your case and assist you in submitting a claim to the insurance company of the negligent party. They can also represent your case in court, should you need to.
A Houston lawyer who has experience will know what to search out for in the police report and other evidence. They will also be able to calculate damages, such as future medical bills as well as lost income in any form, and the damage to the vehicle and other property. They will be in a position to negotiate with the insurance company for you and push for fair compensation.
Insurance companies are often bad-faith making low-ball offers and refusing to settle legitimate claims. An attorney can serve as your advocate and adviser, ensuring you do not get ripped off.
Additionally an attorney can assist you recover non-economic damages, like pain and suffering. It isn't easy to prove this, however an attorney with experience can use a medical assessment to present a compelling argument, which could lead to a higher settlement.
A Houston lawyer for car accidents can provide you with assurance and support you require following a crash. If you would like to speak with an attorney about your case, call the Smith & Hassler firm. They have over 30 years of experience achieving results for their clients and are prepared to take on your case.