When you’re involved in a car accident, many emotions immediately occur. You may feel frightened, upset, and unsure as to how to proceed. Should this unfortunate event occur, you want to be prepared so that you don’t make too many mistakes post-vehicle accident. You want to try to keep calm, provide information, and know the right type of information to offer. Here’s why it’s important to know how to respond and some top mistakes you should avoid after a car accident in Texas:
Why Is It Important to Know What to Say and Do After a Car Accident?
Most of us don’t think ahead as to what to do in the case of a car accident. However, doing so is crucial. It’s important to know what to do and what to say after being involved in a vehicle accident for a couple reasons. First, when you know how to act post-incident, you’ll be better able to protect your rights. Also, by knowing how to respond if you’ve been in a car accident, this will help you avoid legal complications of a wide array. Therefore, it’s necessary to think ahead and be prepared should this type of incident occur.
How Can You Prepare for This Unfortunate Event?
When you want to prepare ahead in the case of this unfortunate event, it’s important to know how to respond if you are in a car accident. Learn about the steps you should take and in what order if you’re involved in a vehicle accident. These necessary steps may involve taking down information, taking photos of the accident scene and vehicles, and knowing the right things to say (and not to say) once you’ve been involved in a car accident.
Top Mistakes to Avoid
There are a few mistakes some people make when they’re involved in a car accident. By gathering information about these common mistakes, you can take the necessary steps regarding how to act if you’ve been involved in a car accident. Here are some top mistakes to avoid when you’ve been in a Texas car accident:
Failing to Call the Police
If you’ve been involved in a car accident, it’s important to call the police right away. The police will come out to the scene and create a police report detailing the accident. This information will be vital in showing the facts of the accident in an official document.
Moving the Vehicle Too Quickly
You don’t want to move your vehicle before taking videos and photos of the accident scene. This footage will document where the vehicles ended up post-accident and be important evidence should a legal case ensue and also for insurance purposes.
Not Documenting Every Detail
You should document every detail at the scene of the accident, unless you are injured and unable to do so. You want to take note of what happened, who was present at the scene, and any other details related to the accident while the information is fresh in your mind.
Not Taking Photos
Taking photos at the scene of the accident is so important. Take pictures of the vehicles, the location of the accident, and any visible injuries that may have occurred as a result of the accident.
Not Exchanging Contact Information
Contact information should be exchanged between all parties involved in the accident along with any insurance information.
Admitting Fault
It’s vital to never admit fault when speaking with the other party involved in the accident or others at the scene. Even saying something like, “I’m sorry,” can be a bad thing to do as any statement can be used against you.
Failure to Speak with Witnesses
If there were witnesses to the accident who are still on the scene, speak with them right away to get their contact information.
Posting on Social Media
Never post anything about the accident on social media as this can be used against you.
Not Seeking Medical Attention
If you are injured or think you may be injured, seek medical attention right away. Also, be sure to see a healthcare professional should you feel symptoms post-accident.
Parks Law Firm Offers Legal Representation in Car Accident Cases
Knowing how to respond in the case of a car accident is crucial. It’s also important to consult an attorney for legal advice. Parks Law Firm can help you with your legal matter. Our law firm offers legal assistance in the Dallas-Fort Worth, Houston, and San Antonio, Texas, areas. We offer a free consultation and no upfront fees should you choose to hire us to help you with your legal case. We’ll provide you with experienced legal representation so that you can rest easy knowing your legal matter is in good hands.
Contact the Parks Law Firm today to learn more about the legal services we offer!