Have you ever wondered what to do if you get into a car accident? It’s a question that many drivers don’t think about until it actually happens, leaving them without a plan. To ensure you respond confidently and get the best results in your case, here is some helpful information on what steps to take after an accident.
Call the Police Immediately
After an accident, it’s essential to take proactive steps to protect yourself in case you need to make a claim later on. The first and most crucial step is to call the police as soon as possible. They are trained to investigate and document evidence, which is vital in determining who is at fault in the accident. Additionally, having the police on the scene helps manage any dangerous situations and ensures everyone’s safety.
Take Pictures of the Damage and Injuries
If you have a camera phone, use it to take pictures of the damage to both vehicles and any injuries sustained. These photos can be crucial evidence for your insurance claim, making it easier for adjusters to assess the situation without you having to go back to the accident site.
Get Contact Information from Everyone Involved
Gathering contact information from all parties involved, including witnesses, is crucial for building a successful case. Being able to reach out to witnesses can provide an accurate account of what happened, aiding in a thorough investigation.
Exchange Insurance Information
After a car accident, it’s essential for both drivers to exchange insurance information. Having the other driver’s name, phone number, insurance company name, policy number, and license plate will make the claim process smoother. The more evidence you provide, such as witness statements, photos, and updated insurance information, the better chance of a successful claim.
Do Not Admit Fault or Apologize
No matter who you think caused the accident, do not admit fault or apologize at the scene. Admitting fault can have serious consequences if legal actions are taken later on. Stay calm and polite, and seek advice from a legal advisor before making any decisions.
Contact Your Insurance Company
Once you have left the accident scene and it is safe to do so, contact your insurance company to begin filing a claim. They can guide you through the process, answer your questions, and provide financial coverage for any necessary repairs due to the accident.
Seek Legal Advice
After a car accident, it’s essential to seek experienced legal counsel. Car accidents can have serious consequences, and a skilled lawyer can provide guidance and advice on the best course of action. They can work with insurance companies and potentially help you get the compensation you deserve.
The following is a list of documents that your attorney may want to have during the course of your case.
Your Insurance Policy
If you have an automobile insurance policy, your car accident attorney will want to see a copy of it to review what type of insurance recovery you may be entitled to. If you don’t have an actual copy of your policy, do not panic. Your car accident lawyer will be able to get one, with your approval, from your insurance company.
Information Exchanged at the Accident Scene
Often, names and telephone numbers are exchanged between the parties to an accident while they are still at the scene. If you have this information, make sure to provide it to your attorney, even if you’ve already contacted the other parties.
Information Provided by the Police at the Accident Scene
In many cases, the police are called to a scene of an accident when there are serious injuries or fatalities. In those situations, they are required to draft an accident report, which often includes a diagram of where the various cars or pedestrians were at the time of the accident. The report will also include the on-scene officer’s initial impressions of the cause of the accident.
This information is crucial in allowing your attorney to develop a total understanding of your case. Provide your attorney with a copy of the accident report or anything else drafted by the police. If you don’t have a copy of the police report, your attorney will be able to obtain one on your behalf.
Tickets Related to the Accident
If you’ve been given a ticket by a police officer for violating traffic laws, make sure to let your attorney know. For example, your attorney will want to see a copy of a ticket for:
- Driving over the speed limit
- Distracted driving
- Reckless driving
Photographs
If your car was damaged in an accident, it is a good idea to take pictures of the damage. If you did not take pictures, a representative of the insurance company may have. If you have pictures in your possession, provide them to your attorney. If you do not have pictures but believe the insurance company may have some, provide that information to your attorney as well.
Statements
When you are involved in a car crash, there is a chance that you may be contacted by a representative of your automobile insurance company. Often, the insurance company will want to obtain a witness statement from you about the accident.
Ideally, you should seek an auto accident attorney prior to giving a statement in a personal injury case. If you were contacted and already provided a statement to insurance, you have a right to a copy of any statement you gave. If you have a copy, give it to your attorney. If you don’t have a copy, let your attorney know that you gave a statement so they can obtain a copy for you.
Abogada De Habla Hispana en Houston
For Spanish speakers in the Greater Houston area, navigating a car accident case might be more challenging due to the limited resources available in Spanish. At the Law Office of Beverly R. Caruthers, they believe that language barriers shouldn’t hinder victims of car accidents from seeking justice. They offer Spanish-speaking legal advice and support to ensure that everyone can navigate the legal system without prejudice.
Personal Injury Lawyer in Houston, Texas
If you or someone you love has been injured in a car accident and suffered losses, you can benefit from the services of a Houston car accident expert like Attorney Beverly R. Caruthers. Whether you’ve lost income due to an injury or lack of access to a vehicle, they can help you with your personal injury case. Don’t hesitate to seek legal assistance; the sooner you act, the better they can help you get the compensation you deserve.
Caruthers Law Firm
Address: 4141 Southwest Fwy, Suite 400
Houston, TX 77027
(713) 526-9557
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In the aftermath of an accident that leaves you or a loved one injured, it is crucial to know where to turn for support and justice. The Caruthers Law Firm stands as a beacon of unwavering commitment to the cause of pursuing justice for injury victims. With a track record that speaks volumes about our dedication to excellence and passion for our clients, we have garnered recognition throughout the Houston area as a trusted name in the legal community. When you or a family member suffers an injury due to the negligence of another, the need for an attorney who is not just competent but also recognized for their excellence becomes paramount. The Houston personal injury attorney at The Caruthers Law Firm fits that bill precisely. We have earned accolades and trust from our clients because we don not just handle cases; we champion causes. Our cases frequently involve traumatic, life-altering events, such as the loss of a loved one, and our relentless pursuit of justice ensures our clients receive the compensation necessary to secure their financial future. Our dedicated efforts have successfully secured over $50 million in settlements for our clients, and our commitment to excellence has brought us national recognition, particularly in fields like birth injury law. Whether your life has been upended by a tragic accident or the negligence of another party, you can confide in Caruthers Law Firm to handle your case with the utmost skill, dedication, and compassion in your time of need. Every case we undertake is treated with the gravity and importance it deserves, and we strive to provide the best possible representation to our clients. At Caruthers Law Firm, our attorneys boast an impressive array of knowledge and expertise in various practice areas, including personal injury, criminal defense, wrongful death, and more. We fully acknowledge that each case is unique, and we value the individual concerns and needs of our clients. This understanding leads us to craft tailored legal strategies that address each case is distinctive challenges. When you choose Caruthers Law Firm as your legal representation, you can expect a high degree of professionalism, unwavering integrity, and an unparalleled commitment from the beginning of your case to its conclusion. We are not just lawyers; we are advocates for your rights, dedicated to securing the justice you deserve.
For over three decades, Beverly R. Caruthers has been on an unwavering mission to provide her clients with top-notch, tenacious, and compassionate legal services and representation. Attorney Beverly R. Caruthers has not only amassed extensive experience but has also consistently delivered high-quality legal assistance to those who have sought her counsel. Her journey to legal expertise began with academic distinction, having graduated Cum Laude with a Bachelor of Arts from Tougaloo College, followed by the acquisition of her Juris Doctor from Thurgood Marshall School of Law at Texas Southern University. With a primary focus on Personal Injury, Criminal Law, and Business Law, Attorney Beverly R. Caruthers has honed her legal acumen in these pivotal areas. Complementing her knowledge and skills, The Law Office of Beverly R. Caruthers is fortified by a collaborative team of seasoned and highly qualified attorneys. Together, they work tirelessly to achieve the best possible outcomes for each and every client they serve. In the Caruthers family, the pursuit of legal excellence seems to be a cherished tradition. Briona Caruthers, following in the footsteps of her older brother and colleague, hails from Missouri City, Texas, where she graduated from Elkins High School in 2015. Venturing outside her hometown, she spent four years at Hofstra University in New York, where she diligently earned her Bachelor Degree in Legal Studies in Business in 2019. After her academic journey in New York, she returned to her roots in Houston, Texas. There, she attended the same illustrious institution where her mother, Beverly R. Caruthers, and her brothers, Eddie and Parker Caruthers, had studied—the Thurgood Marshall School of Law at Texas Southern University. In 2022, Briona graduated Cum Laude from TSU, thereby continuing the family legacy. Beyond her legal pursuits, Briona finds solace in retail therapy and enjoys exploring the world through her travels when she is not in the office, fervently advocating for her clients rights. Parker Caruthers, another member of the Caruthers family, was born and raised in Missouri City, Texas, where he completed his high school education at Clements High School in 2012. His educational journey took him to Texas Southern University in Houston, Texas, where he earned a Bachelor’s Degree in Marketing in 2017. Parker commitment to legal studies led him to the Thurgood Marshall School of Law at TSU, from where he graduated in 2021. During his time in law school, Parker legal prowess shone through as he secured victory in the Helen Dawn Williams Mock Trial competition, all while gaining valuable experience through internships at the Harris County District Attorney’s Office. Opting to take a different path by not pursuing prosecution, Parker joined Caruthers Law Firm in 2021. Beyond the legal realm, Parker passions extend to sports fandom and his role as a proud dog owner. At the Caruthers Law Firm, we take a refreshingly transparent and candid approach when assessing our potential clients circumstances. We believe in clear, honest, and direct communication, leaving aside the legal jargon to speak in terms that our clients can readily understand. Each client is treated as a unique individual, receiving personalized and attentive care throughout their legal journey with us.
We are immensely grateful to each and every individual who wholeheartedly contributed to the success of "The Christmas Toy Drive and Giveaway" and "The Back to School Giveaway" right here in the vibrant city of Houston. Your support has made a profound difference in the lives of countless local children, and it is a testament to the incredible community spirit that defines our city. At The Caruthers Law Firm, we take great pride in being active sponsors of these important initiatives, which focus on providing crucial resources to Houstons youth. Some of the recipients come from families struggling with limited income, making it challenging for them to provide the necessary school supplies for their children. For others, the prospect of a joyous Christmas was a distant dream due to a lack of toys. In these circumstances, we aimed to make a meaningful and positive impact on these children and their families. It is through the unwavering support and dedication of our local community that we were able to realize this vision. We encourage you to consider joining us in this noble cause and be a part of the change in the lives of Houston families. Your involvement can take various forms, whether through donating items, contributing funds, or taking the initiative to organize a collection drive within your organization, church, club, or local community. Your support will undoubtedly go a long way in touching the lives of those in need, ensuring that every child in our city can look forward to a brighter future. By working together, we not only provide essential items but also instill a sense of hope, compassion, and generosity within our beloved Houston community. Together, we can create a stronger, more caring, and inclusive community, one that continues to uplift and empower those who need it most. Thank you for being a part of this vital mission.
