No one knows when traffic accidents will happen. You might be going to the local store or on a cross country trip when you and another vehicle collide. Knowing what to do right after an accident can make the difference between a good outcome and a very bad one. To be sure that you protect all of your legal rights, here are some helpful tips from your McAllen car accident lawyer.
The law mandates that you stop for a traffic mishap. In fact, once you decide to drive off, you could be setting yourself up for a lot of legal trouble. It doesn't matter who is at fault, you should stop and check out everyone in the vehicle and see if the other occupants are alright. To protect your car and passengers from traffic, turn on the emergency flasher and get out of the car if you are on a highway.
Even if the other driver does not want to call the police, call them anyway. It is always best to have a written report for legal reasons. Do not move the vehicles unless they are completely blocking off the flow of traffic.
When the police officer asks you questions, be specific in your answers. If unsure, then say so. Also, if there is any doubt as to whether you are injured or not, always err on the side of caution and get medical treatment. Some injuries may only seem minor, but they can worsen over time. You could be in serious pain a day or so later and the insurance company may not want to cover you. This can sometimes happen with back or neck injuries.
Taking pictures is always a good idea. This documents any damage to your vehicle and it is a good way to have injuries on record. Be certain to obtain as much info as you can on the other vehicle occupants and driver. This includes names, phone numbers, addresses, and insurance info. Ask the police for an accident report number also.
Call your auto insurance provider soon after the incident, and find out what your policy pays for. This is a good time to ask about deductibles too. For example, the policy may take care of medical bills, and you will need to present this information when you go in for treatment.
Keep good records of the entire incident, and put all documents and information in a special file folder or envelope. Make sure to keep all insurance papers and reports, and ask for copies of reports when you do not receive them. If your car is disabled and you need a rental, keep the receipt so you can be reimbursed. In fact, keep receipts from any expenses related to the accident.
You may hear from the insurance company quickly and they may be in a hurry to settle the case. Take your time before signing papers, because these people are looking out for their own interests, and not yours. To make sure that you are getting the best possible settlement, call a trusted auto accident attorney in McAllen. You do not have to pay for the consultation and you pay nothing if you are not compensated.
The law mandates that you stop for a traffic mishap. In fact, once you decide to drive off, you could be setting yourself up for a lot of legal trouble. It doesn't matter who is at fault, you should stop and check out everyone in the vehicle and see if the other occupants are alright. To protect your car and passengers from traffic, turn on the emergency flasher and get out of the car if you are on a highway.
Even if the other driver does not want to call the police, call them anyway. It is always best to have a written report for legal reasons. Do not move the vehicles unless they are completely blocking off the flow of traffic.
When the police officer asks you questions, be specific in your answers. If unsure, then say so. Also, if there is any doubt as to whether you are injured or not, always err on the side of caution and get medical treatment. Some injuries may only seem minor, but they can worsen over time. You could be in serious pain a day or so later and the insurance company may not want to cover you. This can sometimes happen with back or neck injuries.
Taking pictures is always a good idea. This documents any damage to your vehicle and it is a good way to have injuries on record. Be certain to obtain as much info as you can on the other vehicle occupants and driver. This includes names, phone numbers, addresses, and insurance info. Ask the police for an accident report number also.
Call your auto insurance provider soon after the incident, and find out what your policy pays for. This is a good time to ask about deductibles too. For example, the policy may take care of medical bills, and you will need to present this information when you go in for treatment.
Keep good records of the entire incident, and put all documents and information in a special file folder or envelope. Make sure to keep all insurance papers and reports, and ask for copies of reports when you do not receive them. If your car is disabled and you need a rental, keep the receipt so you can be reimbursed. In fact, keep receipts from any expenses related to the accident.
You may hear from the insurance company quickly and they may be in a hurry to settle the case. Take your time before signing papers, because these people are looking out for their own interests, and not yours. To make sure that you are getting the best possible settlement, call a trusted auto accident attorney in McAllen. You do not have to pay for the consultation and you pay nothing if you are not compensated.
About the Author:
If you or a love one was injured in an auto accident, an experienced McAllen auto accident attorney can help you. Contact the auto accident lawyers in McAllen, Texas, at the Law Office of Raul A. Guajardo, PLLC, today for a free consultation.
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