Consuela: Hi Jason. If I got in an accident and it wasn’t my fault, are there things that I should do after it happens so that I can sue if I want to?
Jason: This is a great question, Consuela. Knowing what to do in the event that an accident happens could definitely help with proving your case.
Consuela: So what should I do?
Jason: Well, the first thing is to contact the police – even if you can still drive your car – you’ll want to pull over and call them. Make sure to put on your hazard lights if you are on the side of the road.
Consuela: But what if it’s really not a bad accident and the other person gives me their insurance information – do I really have to get the police involved?
Jason: It’s best if you do, Consuela. Just because someone seems nice at the scene of the accident, that doesn’t mean that he or she will cooperate later. If you don’t have the police report, and the other party denies it, it makes it much more difficult to prove your case.
Consuela: Then do I still need to get all their information and such if the police are involved?
Jason: Yes. If you are physically able, you want to gather as much information as you can from the scene of the accident. This includes recording facts about what happened, taking photos, and getting the other driver’s personal and vehicle information as well as their insurance. If there were witnesses, you should get their contact information too.
Consuela: Do I still need to call my own insurance company if the other person is at fault?
Jason: Yes, you’ll want to report the accident to your own insurance. Contact them as soon as you can. Most policies require that you report the accident immediately. Doing so allows them to discuss your medical benefits and begin your claim.
Consuela: Okay, that makes sense. What else should I know?
Jason: After you’ve called the police, and collected information you’ll want to get medical attention for your injuries. If it is a severe accident and an ambulance is called, you’d receive initial care on sight. But even if you don’t have pain or any visible injuries, you should really get checked out.
Consuela: Even if I don’t have a single cut, bruise, or injury?
Jason: Yes. Just because you don’t feel any injuries, it doesn’t mean you don’t have them. Sometimes symptoms don’t show up for days or weeks later. It’s much easier to prove that your injuries were the result of the accident if you seek medical attention immediately.
Consuela: And when do I contact a lawyer?
Jason: You’ll want to contact a lawyer as quickly as possible. But that doesn’t mean you should just hire the first one that you find. There’s a big difference between experienced and inexperienced lawyers. An experienced lawyer knows what to expect from the other side and will take immediate action to preserve evidence that strengthens your case.
Consuela: What if I can’t find a good one down here? It’s not like we are in a big city like San Antonio.
Jason: Consuela, you can always call me. I’ve represented many clients in your area and continue to do so. Here’s my cell number: 210-591-9777.
Consuela: Oh thank you, Jason! I hope I never get in an accident, but if I do, I’ll know what to do and who to call.
DeSouza Injury Lawyers is a leading personal injury firm representing accident victims throughout Texas.
If you’ve been injured by a car, truck, 18-wheeler, company vehicle, or in the oilfield, call Jason DeSouza personally today at 210-591-9777 or 361-799-2222 or visit the firm online at https://jfdlawfirm.com