Car Accident Lawyer in Houston Can Maximize the Value of Your Claim
If you're in a car accident, it's crucial to follow certain steps and speak with an attorney as quickly as possible. Your Houston lawyer can maximize the value of your claim.
Insurance companies prioritize their own financial interests, however an experienced car crash attorney is able to balance the playing field. They can help you to avoid problems like medical bills that are taken from your settlement.
What to do after a Car Crash
If you are injured or not, it is vital to remain calm when you are at the scene of a car accident. Do not get out of your vehicle unless you are certain it is safe to do this. Medical professionals must treat injured people immediately and the police should arrive to file an official report.
After you've left your car, try to take photos or video of the scene. This will aid your accident lawyer in houston determine the cause of the accident and then prove that in court. Photograph any relevant information, like the vehicles involved as well as the road conditions.
Exchange information with all those involved in the accident. This includes their name, address, phone number of insurance company, as well as driver's license number. It is also advisable to inquire about any witnesses present and get their name and contact details. If they have a driver's license, be sure to get the license plate number as well.
It's an excellent idea to write down all of the information you can remember before your memory fades. You might want note down the date and place of the
accident & injury lawyers, as well as the manner in which it occurred, and what caused the accident. It's a good idea to note the weather conditions, too.
It is recommended to capture as many photographs as you can of the scene, especially when there are witnesses. You can use your cell phone to capture these photos or, if disabled following the accident, ask a witness to take the pictures for you. Try to get close-up shots of the damage to cars, and further distant shots of the accident scene as a whole.
Make sure to take photos of any skid marks, damaged guardrails or trees on the scene. It's also a good idea for you to record any visible injuries sustained in the accident. Make sure to examine yourself and your passengers for any cuts or scrapes. You can also take pictures of any bruises and other injuries. Be sure to obtain an original copy of your police report. This will be useful if you are sued by the other driver.
Contact the police
Everyday, people in Houston get in their automobiles and drive. Others take to the streets on foot or bikes. Even if you follow the rules of the road, one negligent driver can cause a serious accident. If this happens, the results can be catastrophic. Therefore it's crucial to know the steps you need to take right away following an accident to safeguard yourself and your rights.
One of the most important things to do following a crash is to call the authorities and report the
accident claims lawyers. This will ensure a police officer will be at the scene and make an accurate report that can be extremely valuable to insurance purposes or legal issues that might arise following the accident.
Witnesses should also be interviewed. It's important to collect eyewitness testimony immediately, even if some people leave the scene before an officer arrives. This will enable you to follow up with the witnesses, and get their testimony if necessary.
If you can, take a picture of the scene. This is an essential step that is easily accomplished by using an electronic camera or mobile phone. Pictures of the vehicles, skid marks, and other objects will provide valuable evidence for your attorney.
You should also take note of the names of the drivers involved, their license plate numbers, as well as their insurance details. This will help your lawyer determine who is responsible for the incident. It will also prove any injuries you or the other driver may have suffered.
Finally, you should always seek medical attention when needed. Even minor injuries, such as whiplash could have a lasting impact on your health, and can be worsened over time. A doctor will record any injuries you might have sustained as a result of the accident.
It's also a good idea to remove your vehicle from the roadway following a crash if safe to do this. If you can't move your car, then surround it with reflective signs. This will help prevent other drivers from hitting your vehicle in the future, and it will also help you get more compensation in a claim for injury against the other party.
Seek medical attention
It is crucial to seek medical attention as soon following a car crash as possible. Regardless of whether you think your injuries are serious or not, visiting an expert will help you determine and treat any ailments that might have developed as a result of the crash. Additionally, a medical evaluation can be used as proof of your injuries should you have to submit an insurance claim or lawsuit.
In many cases, the signs of injuries sustained in the crash of a car may not manifest for days, hours or even weeks following the
best accident lawyer near me. Stress can trigger our bodies to release hormones that mask discomfort for a short period of time. What appears to be an insignificant bump or ache in immediate after a crash can be a chronic condition if left untreated.
You will be asked a series questions by the doctor about your feelings prior to and after an accident. Answer honestly so your doctor can evaluate the extent of your injuries.
If your injuries aren't life-threatening, you can choose between going to an emergency room in a hospital or an urgent care facility. Both will offer you the medical treatment you require, and will also provide documentation of your injuries to help with an insurance claim or a legal proceeding.
Some people do not seek medical attention due to the belief that injuries will heal on their own, or that the injury was caused by something other than an accident. However, neglecting to seek medical attention can have negative effects on your health and your ability to secure compensation for damages.
It's also important to refrain from discussing the incident with anyone, not even the other driver, as anything you say can be used against you in court or in negotiations for settlement. Take photos of the
accident & injury lawyers site and any injuries you may have sustained. Keep copies of all your medical bills, repair estimates and invoices.
Contact an Attorney
If you've been injured in a car accident, or lost a loved one in the event of a fatal crash, the services of a Houston attorney for car accidents can help. You may be entitled to significant compensation for injuries and medical costs.
The first step is to find an attorney who is experienced in representing victims of car accidents and can evaluate your case. You can locate an attorney through asking your friends and family, searching online or calling your local bar association. After you've identified a few candidates to interview you can set up a time for a consultation to discuss your case.
Injuries resulting from a car accident can be devastating. It is crucial to seek out an attorney as soon as possible. A good
Lawyer accident near me will evaluate your case and assist you in submitting a claim to the insurance company of the responsible party. They can also represent you in court, should you need to.
A Houston
lawyer for accidents near me who has experience will know what to look for in the police report and other evidence. They will also know how to calculate your damages that include future medical expenses and all other forms of lost income, and damage to your vehicle and other property. They will be capable of negotiating with the insurance company for you and push for fair compensation.
Insurance companies are often in bad faith offering low-ball prices and refusing to pay a valid claim. An attorney can be your advocate and guide and ensure that you're not taken advantage of.
A lawyer can also help you get compensation for non-economic damages like pain and discomfort. It can be difficult to prove this, however an experienced lawyer can utilize a medical evaluation to make a convincing argument that could result in an increase in settlement.
An experienced Houston car accident attorney can provide you with the help and peace of mind that you require following a crash. To speak with a lawyer about your case, contact the Smith & Hassler firm. They have more than 30 years of experience in achieving results for their clients and are ready to tackle your case.