The steps you do take after a vehicle collision are important and so are the things you should not do after a crash.
Here is what you need to know.
Do Not Admit Fault
When you are in a car accident resulting in injury in Texas, a law enforcement officer will respond to the scene. Depending on your injuries, you may or may not be able to tell your side of the story.
If asked, and able to answer, be honest. However, never admit fault.
The question of “fault” involves the rendering of a legal opinion, which is not a “fact” but a conclusion. It is a question for a lawyer, or ultimately for a jury, to determine.
You are not required, nor qualified, to render such an opinion. Do not give one.
Do Get Medical Treatment Immediately After the Crash Occurs
The adrenaline from the crash may mask your injuries immediately after the collision occurs. Just because you don’t feel pain right now, doesn’t mean you aren’t hurt. Seek medical care immediately so all your injuries can be assessed by a doctor.
The fact is while getting treatment shows you were injured, not getting treatment is perceived to be proof that you were not injured.
Do Take Photos of the Crash Scene, Vehicles, and Other Details Immediately
If your injuries do not require being rushed by ambulance to an emergency room, take pictures of the crash scene — including where all involved vehicles stopped, skid marks, and pieces of the wreckage — the damages to each vehicle, and even a picture of the other driver and their identification, so you have time-stamped proof that he or she was there.
Do Write Everything Down and Keep Every Document That Relates to Your Accident
Chronicling everything that happened, as it happens, will help you understand the details of the crash easier than waiting to jot it all down at once.
Record the driver’s name, the names of any passengers, their driver’s license, registration, and insurance information.
After the accident, write down how it happened, what time you sought medical care, and all other details and keep a detailed journal of your recovery process.
Once you seek medical care, make a complete list of your injuries, write down the medications you take, and how you feel each day including your pain levels. As time goes on, record medical procedures and how long your physicians say your recovery will take and how long you will be out of work.
The more detail the better.
Keep copies of everything related to the crash, including police reports, medical records, medical bills, prescriptions, and any expenses caused by the crash.
Do Not Talk About Your Accident on Social Media
Anything you say may be used against you by the insurance company, including simple online statements like, “Feeling much better today!” Even if feeling better means you are simply awake and alert, it is going to be taken out of context and used as evidence that you must not have been that injured. Stay away from social media after your crash, while you are healing, and throughout your personal injury case, so you do not damage your chances of achieving the maximum financial outcome.
Do Contact Our Skilled Personal Injury Attorneys in Austin at Glen Larson Law Injury Attorneys Today
If you have been hurt in a car accident caused by the negligence of another person, call Austin personal injury attorneys at Glen Larson Law Injury Attorneys at 512-883-0277 or contact us online today to schedule a free consultation with our bilingual staff who is available 24 hours a day, seven days a week to ensure your legal rights are protected.
Our legal team pursues dedicated, driven results for our clients. There is never a charge to talk to an attorney. We stand ready to help you. Call 512-883-0277 today.
