Texas Personal Injury Lawyer: Ten Things to Do After Injury Accident

Unfortunately, at some time in our lives most of us will experience an automobile accident. When you are in a car accident there are certain things that you should and should not do.

1. Do not leave the scene of the accident. Move your vehicle to a safe place out of traffic if possible. Turn off the ignition. Activate your hazard lights. If you are able, get out of your vehicle and determine if anyone is injured. Do not try and move an injured person.
2. Call 911 immediately. Be sure to inform them of your correct location. Advise them if there are any injuries and request medical assistance if necessary.
3. Obtain information from the other drivers involved. Get complete and accurate information such as:
• Name, address, phone and drivers license number
• If driver is not owner, obtain same information for owner
• Make, model, year, license plate and color of vehicles
• Insurance name, phone number and policy number
• Name, address and phone number of any witnesses
4. Stay calm and cooperate with the other parties and the investigating officers. Do not become angry, argue or fight with those involved. Write down the name and badge numbers of the investigating officers. Obtain the incident or report number and ask how and where to obtain a copy of the report.
5. Do not admit fault or offer to pay the damages of any parties. Even if you think you are at fault there may be factors which you don't know which played a role in the accident and it may turn out that the other driver was more at fault than you.
6. Do not accept money from the other driver even if the other person takes responsibility for the accident. Do not sign a release. By taking the money you may give up your right to file a claim against the other driver.
7. If available use a camera to take pictures showing the damage on all vehicles. The position of the vehicles, any skid marks or debris in the road and anything else documenting what has occurred.
8. Seek medical care for your injuries. Many times the "adrenaline rush" from the accident can mask your pain and injuries. A physical examination may reveal an injury that you do not yet feel. Many times, muscular injuries to the neck and back do not show up for 3-4 days after the accident.
9. Report the accident claim to your insurance company immediately. You are required to advise your insurance about any claim regardless of fault.
10. Contact a knowledgeable personal injury attorney for legal advice and assistance in resolving your claim. The attorneys and staff at Jim S. Adler and Associates are always available and willing to help you with your legal questions and concerns.

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