Over 13% of fatal car accidents are attributed to drunken driving. Even the most disciplined drivers can be involved in car accidents. Whether you had a minor fender bender or a severe accident with fatal injuries, it is wise to consider hiring an auto accident lawyer at the earliest to handle the legal aspects of the accident.
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Get quality medical attention even if you feel fine. Your doctor will check for internal injuries or concussions besides bruises and fractures. Once you’ve established there are no severe medical issues to worry about, you should start thinking about insurance coverage.
All Texas drivers must have insurance coverage for personal injury damages, property damages, and liability insurance.
Don’t Leave the Accident Scene
A minor auto accident could quickly turn into a hit-and-run accident if you try to flee the accident scene before the police arrive. The situation could worsen if you instigate the police to chase after you.
All drivers in Texas are required to stop at the accident scene and check on other parties involved. Once the police reach the accident scene, they will collect information about how the accident happened, the parties’ personal information, and witness statements.
Speak to your Katy auto accident lawyer before speaking to the police. The police may even run breathalyzer tests and other tests to check if anyone involved was driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs.
Report the Accident
Drivers involved in a Texas car accident should file crash reports within ten days. However, it’s best to inform the police department immediately.
Collect Necessary Evidence and Documentation
Click several pictures of the accident scene. Also, consider shooting videos and collecting witness statements. Texas is an at-fault state and follows a modified comparative fault approach in car accidents.
This term means that the court will compute the percentage of fault of each person involved in the accident. If your percentage of fault in causing the accident is more than that of the other party, you may not be eligible for compensation.
Similarly, medical bills, doctor’s prescriptions, car repair bills, and other receipts can help make your case stronger and prove the negligence of the other party involved. The court will also use the evidence you submit to decide the amount of compensation you are eligible for from the at-fault party’s insurance company.
File for Compensation
Victims can claim compensation from the at-fault driver’s insurance company. The minimum insurance coverage limits are $30000 for personal injuries, $25000 for property damages, and $60000 for total injury coverage in one accident.
As per the Texas Statute of Limitations, you will have to file for compensation within two years from the date of the accident. The insurance company may try to negotiate for lower informal settlements.
Your auto accident lawyer can enter into negotiations with the insurance company and help ensure you get the compensation you deserve. The expert can also help you draft legal submissions and other documentation.
Wrapping Up
The amount of compensation will vary based on the severity of your injuries or property damages, the content of police reports, and the strength of the evidence you submit. An experienced auto accident lawyer in Katy can help you win your case.