A car accident in Texas can leave you with serious or permanent injuries. Many times, the injuries are more than just physical.
Car accident victims often experience mental or psychological symptoms, including depression, anxiety and post-traumatic stress, which leaves them afraid to drive or even be in a motor vehicle. Combined with physical trauma, the effects of a serious car accident can last a lifetime.
When a car accident is not your fault, the other driver should be held responsible for their actions. You have rights as a car accident victim that you must protect.
Stay at the accident scene and wait for medical treatment
Stay at the accident scene and call emergency help. Staying at the scene is required under Texas law. Have someone call for you if you are injured and cannot. Do not move yourself or your vehicle unless it is safe.
If you can move your vehicle, move it to a safe location. Otherwise, turn on the hazard lights and leave the vehicle in the same location.
It is often best to stay in the same place even if you believe you are uninjured or only suffered minor injuries. Wait for emergency services to arrive and check your injuries.
Some injuries, such as whiplash, are not immediately apparent. You could have a serious injury and not know it. You may also be in shock immediately after the accident.
However, if you try to maneuver around or walk away from the accident, you could face future challenges when trying to recover compensation from your injuries. An argument could be made that your movement was the actual cause of your injuries or made any initial injuries worse.
Exchange contact information but avoid making other statements
Exchange contact information with other drivers and witnesses. Obtain their name, phone number, driver’s license number and vehicle registration information.
Do not discuss the accident with anyone. Focus on remaining still and calm until emergency services arrive. Once you have the contact information of others who were involved in or witnessed the accident, you can discuss the accident with them at a later date.
In fact, it is often best to say as little as possible at an accident scene. This can be difficult. Emotions are often running high and fear or anger may cause you to blurt out the entire story of what happened.
However, your statements can be used against you. A simple apology or casual statement such as “I didn’t even see the other vehicle” could be interpreted as you taking blame for the accident.
Create an accident journal and log expenses
Once you have sought medical treatment, start writing down everything you can remember about the accident in an accident journal. Keep writing in the journal every day, describing your injuries, medical treatment, emotional levels and the status of any pain.
Keep a log of all expenses you incur from the accident. Expenses include the cost of medical treatment, medications, physical therapy or any devices, such as wheelchairs or crutches. Document vehicle expenses, such as the cost of repairs or a rental car. If you miss work, document all lost wages.
Taking the right steps after a car accident maintains your rights as an accident victim and increases your chance of holding the other driver responsible.
By taking these steps, you ensure your safety and obtain important information that you will need to file an insurance claim or personal injury lawsuit.
