Dallas is the third largest city in Texas and has one of the highest rates of fatal car accidents in the nation. According to the U.S. News and World Report, Dallas ranked #9 on “The 10 Least Safe U.S. Cities for Driving.” Drivers are often traumatized and confused immediately after a Dallas car accident. However, taking certain actions after a crash can help ensure your safety and your ability to recover the maximum amount of compensation you deserve. If you have been involved in a car accident in Dallas, Bush & Bush Law Group wants to help you.
Our dedicated Dallas car accident attorneys have deep knowledge of Texas personal injury law and work with some of the best experts to prove your case. Contact Bush & Bush today at (469) 977-7777 or by visiting our contact page and schedule a free consultation to discuss your case. We will listen to you, answer your questions, explain your options, and guide you through the legal process of achieving full compensation for your injuries and damages.
Steps to Take After a Dallas Car Accident
It is important to remain as calm as possible after a Dallas car accident so you can think clearly and protect yourself. The steps you take immediately after an accident can greatly influence your ability to recover compensation for your injuries and damages. Some important steps to take after a car accident include:
- Remember that safety comes first. If possible move out of the flow of traffic to a safe nearby location to prevent additional collisions with other vehicles. Turn on your hazard lights to help alert oncoming traffic of the accident.
- Remain at the scene. Texas law requires drivers to remain at the scene of a car accident, especially if there are any injuries. Leaving the scene could result in criminal charges and would harm your personal injury claim. You also want to be sure and provide your statement to the Dallas police or other law enforcement officers about how the accident happened.
- Call 911. Calling 911 ensures that police and medical services are dispatched to the accident scene right away. Even if the accident seems minor, making the 911 call will officially document the incident and help provide an unbiased third-party record.
- Exchange Information with other drivers. You are required by law to exchange certain information with the other drivers involved in the accident, including your name, address, and vehicle registration. You should also provide your driver’s license number if asked. Be sure to get the same information from all other drivers involved, including their insurance information. If there are injuries or property damage greater than $1,000, you are also required by Texas law to report the car accident to the police. If for some reason the police are unable to come to the scene, you must file a crash report through the Texas Department of Transportation. The crash report must be filed within 10 days of the accident.
- Do not admit fault or apologize. Other than exchanging information with the other drivers, do not discuss the accident with them. If you admit fault or apologize for your actions, it can be used against you later. Be honest with the police about what happened but refrain from admitting that you were at fault.
- Seek medical care. Even if you think you are not injured, you should get a medical evaluation promptly. Many injuries are not immediately apparent and may take days to manifest. Getting immediate medical care may help any injuries to be diagnosed and treated early. Additionally, documenting any physical complaints in your medical records can help strengthen your compensation claim.
- Gather and preserve evidence. If you are able, take photographs or video of the accident scene, any visible injuries, damage to your vehicle, as well as any notable road conditions, traffic signs, and anything else that seems relevant. You should also collect the police report, medical reports, and all communications with other drivers or their insurance companies.
- Report the accident to your insurance company. Contact your insurance company to start the property damage claims process. However, you should not speak directly to the other driver’s insurance company without first speaking with your attorney. The other insurance representative may try to get you to admit fault or make a statement that can be used to avoid or minimize your compensation.
- Purchase the police crash report. The police crash report may help establish liability. Insurance companies generally rely significantly on this report when determining fault to settle claims. Texas police crash reports can be purchased online through the Crash Records Information System.
- Keep an accident journal. Document your injuries, pain and suffering, medical treatments, and emotional states in the days, weeks, and months following the accident. Be sure to capture how your injuries impact your day-to-day life. This can be a big asset in the claims process.
- Create a records file. You should gather all evidence relating to your accident in one file. In addition to your accident journal, you should keep a detailed record of your medical expenses for treatments, physical therapy, medications, repair costs for your vehicle, rental car fees, and any other out-of-pocket expenses made necessary by the accident. You also need to document your lost income for days you were unable to work due to your injuries.
- Contact a Dallas car accident attorney. Having a skillful personal injury attorney fighting for you is vital to securing the maximum compensation you deserve. At Bush & Bush Law Group, we are ready to guide you through the legal process. We will help establish liability, negotiate with insurance companies, and aggressively represent you in court.
Contact Bush & Bush Law Group Today
Taking smart action can significantly improve your chances of recovery. One of the most important steps you can take is to choose a Dallas persona injury attorney who will provide you with compassionate and aggressive service. When you choose the Bush & Bush Law Group, you will be in great hands. We will do everything in our power to ensure you receive the maximum compensation you deserve for your injuries. Call us today at (469) 977-7777 or visit our contact page to schedule a free consultation. We will listen to you, answer your questions, explain your options, and fight to protect your rights.