Given the confusion that accompanies most collisions, you may not be thinking clearly in the immediate aftermath of a car crash. Nonetheless, if you can remember these mistakes to avoid after a Houston car accident, you could put yourself in a better position to recover full compensation from the negligent party that caused it.
The auto collision attorneys at Schechter, Shaffer & Harris have compiled this checklist to help injured car crash victims recover the negligence damages they deserve. In our firm’s more than 60 years of protecting the local community, our legal team has recovered hundreds of millions of dollars and have helped injured parties and their families move forward with their lives.
Admitting Fault and Not Reporting the Accident
Human nature and basic decency might lead a Houston car accident victim to the error of apologizing and admitting that they caused the crash. However, your immediate impression might be wrong, and any statement you make where you admit responsibility could be used to defeat your subsequent claims for damages. If you could avoid this mistake, you may have better chances of collecting full reimbursement for your injuries and losses.
In addition, all car accidents, regardless of how minor, should be reported to the police or local authorities. This accident report, which describes how the collision happened, may become critical evidence in your car accident lawsuit.
Failing To Seek Medical Treatment
You should have a medical examination within 24 hours after a car crash in Houston even if you believe your injuries are minor. Some injuries, including concussions, may not be immediately apparent. If you delay medical treatment, the negligent party that caused the crash could argue that some event between the accident and your doctor’s visit was the cause of your injuries.
Not Collecting and Saving Evidence
At a minimum, you should exchange contact and insurance information with every other person involved in the car accident. If possible, get contact information from eyewitnesses and take photos of the accident scene. Save everything that shows the damage from the accident as proof of your property losses.
Talking Directly to Insurance Claims Adjusters
Insurers will likely contact you to get your version of how the auto collision occurred in Houston, but this is a serious mistake because insurers are not on your side. Insurers will use your comments to find a way to reduce or deny your claims for reimbursement. Instead, hire an experienced attorney who could manage all communications with liability insurers on your behalf.
If you accept an insurer’s quick settlement offer, you may forfeit your right to collect a significantly larger award for damages. Our knowledgeable lawyer could advise you on the true value of your case, which is often much higher than an insurer will admit.
Speak With a Houston Attorney To Help Avoid These Notable Mistakes After a Car Crash
There are several mistakes you will need to avoid after a Houston car accident, but the largest error would be failing to retain an experienced attorney who could protect your rights and get you the justice you are entitled to receive. Our personal injury lawyers at Schechter, Shaffer & Harris have the knowledge you need to recover full damages on your behalf from all negligent parties. Call any of our offices to schedule a no-fee, confidential, and no-obligation review of your car accident case with one of our team members who could be ready to fight for you.
