Avoiding Common Legal Mistakes After a San Antonio Car Accident

San Antonio is a busy city for car accidents, with more than 40,000 in 2023 alone. The concern over traffic fatalities prompted city officials to launch Vision Zero, a plan to eliminate deaths and enhance transportation safety. Despite efforts, many San Antonio residents and visitors still find themselves victims of motor vehicle crashes. Many make legal mistakes immediately following the accident that impact their ability to collect compensation for their injuries and damages.

The San Antonio car accident lawyers at Carabin Shaw understand that the moments following a collision can be chaotic and your mind might be racing with adrenaline and fear. However, your ability to follow a few simple steps in the accident’s aftermath could make a difference in your financial situation moving forward. Accident victims often face medical bills, time off work, and significant vehicle damage. Avoiding legal mistakes after a car accident in San Antonio TX will help you get the compensation you deserve.

Texas law requires motorists in an accident to report the incident to police if the crash involves a death, injury, or vehicle damage over $1,000. However, contacting the police is always a good idea. A police report can be invaluable when you file insurance claims or pursue legal proceedings.

Accident victims often downplay their injuries after a crash, which gives insurance companies reasons to deny or reduce claims. In some cases, injuries are severe enough to seek emergency aid. Even if you don’t need to call 911, see a doctor immediately following your accident to document injuries. In some cases, injuries don’t appear until days later, and you want to be sure your compensation covers medical bills now and in the future.

Try to take pictures of the accident scene, including photos of vehicle damage, injuries, street conditions, or anything else that might seem relevant to the accident. Collect information from the other drivers, including names, phone numbers, and insurance information. If witnesses were on the scene, record their names and phone numbers. Your lawyer can use this information to build your case.

Apologizing to the other driver or making a statement about your role in the accident may seem right, but it can hurt you in the long run. Let the investigation determine who was at fault to protect yourself and your interests. Never publicly discuss the accident or post information about it on social media, where insurance companies can find your post and use your words against you to minimize your claim.

Texas uses the proportionate responsibility principle when determining compensation after an accident. You can collect damages if you are less than 50% responsible. However, if you did contribute to the crash, your compensation will be reduced by your portion of the fault. Insurance companies know this and will try to get you to admit you played a role in the crash to minimize your damages. Never talk to the other driver’s insurance company without contacting San Antonio auto accident attorneys first.

In the confusing hours and days following a car crash, it can seem tempting to say yes when an insurance company reaches out to you with immediate compensation. However, the first settlement offer you receive is guaranteed not to be the highest one. Allow your attorney to do their job in pursuing maximum compensation for your specific situation. In the long run, you will be glad you waited.

The best car accident legal advice in Texas is to contact an experienced legal team immediately following your crash. Our team at Carabin Shaw provides free case reviews, and we offer our services on a contingency-fee basis so you don’t pay until you receive your settlement. Reviews from previous clients confirm our ability to maximize your settlement.

Don’t wait another minute to get the help you need. Our English- and Spanish-speaking professionals are available 24/7 at 800-862-1260. Contact us toll-free now.

For more information:

• Statutes Capitol Texas
• Statutes Capitol Texas TN.550
• Statutes Capitol Texas CP.33