6 Frequently Asked Questions Related to Car Accidents in Houston
Car crashes are the main cause of accidental damage and injuries in Texas. The Texas Department of Transportation reported in 2020 that 14,656 people suffered severe injuries in car collisions in the region. Tens of thousands more suffered moderate and mild injuries in the same year. Houston is said to be one of the worst cities when it comes to car accidents. It is the 19th-most dangerous city to drive across the nation.
It is essential to understand the steps you’ll need to take following a car accident to help ensure the rights of both you and your family are safeguarded.
A great car accident lawyer in Houston will tirelessly fight to help you get financial compensation as well as the justice you deserve.
Here are some of the frequently asked questions connected to motor vehicle collisions in Houston.
What do I need to do after the accident?
A car accident’s immediate aftermath can be incredibly frustrating and stressful. There are a couple of things you can do to help ensure you’re in the best position to effectively navigate your whole claims process. Some of the key steps you should take in Houston include stopping the car and exchanging information with the other driver, seeking medical attention as soon as possible, and reporting the crash to the local or state law enforcement agency.
Can I file a claim if I don’t see a doctor?
No. At least not a successful one, anyway. If you’re looking to recover your medical expenses after an accident in Houston, you’ll need to have official medical documentation. You need to go to the hospital and see a licensed physician as soon as you can after a serious motor vehicle collision. Not only you are going to be protecting your overall health and well-being, but it’s also a crucial part of a personal injury claims suit.
What’s the statute of limitations in Texas?
There’s a 24-month statute of limitations in the state of Texas for motor vehicle accident injury suits. If you get injured in an accident, ensure you file a claim within 24 months of the crash. If you fail to do this, you could be rendering yourself ineligible to initiate a pursuit for compensation for your injuries. Don’t delay. Get in touch with an attorney as soon as you can.
How do you get a copy of the police report?
The responding police officer is meant to write a report about the accident. The report is a crucial part of documentation and evidence. Ensure you get your own copy. You can do this by going through the systems and protocols put in place by the relevant law enforcement department that responded to your situation. The Houston Police Department has its own protocols for accident reports.
Should I record a statement with the insurance company?
Do not do this. Insurance firms typically have the incentive to look out for the company’s own bottom line. An insurance provider (even your own provider) won’t have your best interests at heart. They want you to record a statement immediately after the accident so that they can look for incriminating things regarding the things you did in order to help reduce their own liability.
Who can you hold legally responsible?
Texas is a fault-based state when it comes to car accidents. Every traffic accident needs to be wholly investigated to find out exactly what actually occurred. The person (persons) liable for causing the car accident through recklessness or negligence should be held legally responsible for the damages. A traffic accident injury claim can be brought against the driver, trucking companies, car manufacturers, and highway construction crews.
