Most people tend to believe that common sense dictates what you have to do once a Laredo auto, motorcycle, or 18 wheeler accident happens. But insurance companies are experts at minimizing the amount of money that pay in claims. So it is always very important to take the right steps after an accident to make sure that you and your loved ones have the best change to recover both physically and financially. Accidents can be distressing quite often at times; thus it is difficult for one to think clearly and act diligently. Here is a checklist of ideas on what to do after an auto accident in Laredo Texas. It is best that you review it then print out a copy that you can keep with your other vital car documents.
Stay Calm and Call for Help for the InjuredThis is usually the first and the most critical step you need to take, but you need to stay calm because panic can make the situation worse. It is much easier to assess and determine the extent of damage in an auto accident if you are a calm person. Call 911 immediately if someone is injured, or has injuries that need immediate medical attention. Always deal with the immediate threat to life and health first.
Call and File a Report With the PoliceIt’s necessary to ensure there is a legal accident report, and the only way to accomplish this is by calling the police immediately after the car accident. Do not leave the accident scene until the police file a full report, unless if you need urgent medical assistance. For instance, if you report the accident to the police, your uninsured motorist coverage will compensate you in case of a hit-and-run car accident.
Move Your Vehicle, if PossibleWith police direction, avoid causing traffic snarl up or further damage, drive your car safely to the side of the road, out of the path of the oncoming traffic. Ideally, this will help keep you at a safe distance, considering the fact that hundreds of people get injured at accident scenes in Laredo Texas annually. Also, moving your vehicle will also make it easier for the emergency crew and police to access the scene of the accident. Remember, wait for the police to direct you before moving the vehicle.
Get the Facts RightThis is the part that most people often overlook for one reason or another, but it’s imperative. You need to record facts about the other driver’s name, license number, insurance information (company name and the policy number), telephone number and address. Essentially, try to ensure that you make notes about the auto accident, including specific damages to all vehicles involved, witness information. It is also highly recommended that you shouldn’t sign any document unless it's for the police. Don’t give a recorded statement to the insurance company and do not sing any insurance documents until you speak with an attorney. Take photos with your cell phone if your phone has a camera. Gather as many facts about the accident that you can.
Notify Your Insurance CompanyCall your insurance agent or insurance company’s contact number almost immediately. However, you must ensure that you have all the relevant information about the witnesses and injured persons before making the call. This will save you a lot time later waiting for your claim to be processed. Again, do not give a recorded statement, and do not sign anything from them until you speak with us.
Contact Your AttorneyEveryone has a right to recover from injuries and expenses after an auto accident. There are several auto insurance companies in Laredo Texas, but you ought to bear in mind that they are not in the business of paying claims. Therefore, it is quite beneficial that you contact your attorney to discuss your legal options within a period of 2 years after the accident to settle or file suit on an accident claim. Call the law offices of Carabin Shaw day or night. Our toll-free number is 800-862-1260. Or, call our Laredo number at 956.333.3333.
Our initial consultation is free, and we will not charge you a fee unless we win your case with a positive settlement or award in your favor.
In Laredo call 956.333.3333.