Houston is a bustling metropolis with over 2.3 million people and millions more visiting for business or pleasure every year. With such a high traffic volume, it’s no surprise that car accidents are common in the city.
According to the Texas Department of Transportation, there were over 64,000 motor vehicle crashes in Houston in 2020 alone. These crashes resulted in thousands of injuries and hundreds of deaths.
While these numbers may seem alarming, they highlight the importance of being prepared for the possibility of being involved in a car accident.
Causes of Car Accidents in Houston;
There are various reasons why car accidents happen on Houston roads. Some common causes include:
1. Distracted driving
In this age of technology, distracted driving has become one of the leading causes of car accidents.
Using cell phones while driving, eating or drinking behind the wheel, and even adjusting radio stations can all lead to distractions and increase the risk of an accident.
2. Speeding
Many drivers feel pressure to reach their destination quickly and speed on highways or busy streets. This increases their chances of causing an accident and reduces their reaction time if something unexpected happens.
3. Drunk driving
Despite strict laws against drunk driving, it remains a significant problem on Houston roads. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), almost 30% of all fatal accidents involve alcohol.
Importance of hiring a car accident attorney after a crash:
After experiencing a car accident, it is common for individuals to feel overwhelmed and unsure of what steps to take next.
In addition to dealing with the physical and emotional aftermath of the crash, there may also be legal matters that need to be addressed. This is where hiring a car accident attorney becomes crucial.
Here are some reasons why hiring a car accident attorney after a crash is essential:
1. Understanding of Complex Laws
Car accident laws can be complex and vary from state to state. A skilled car accident attorney will have extensive knowledge and understanding of these laws.
Which can be critical in building a solid case on your behalf. They will also be aware of any recent changes or updates in the rules that may affect your case.
2. Protection Against Insurance Companies
Insurance companies often try to settle quickly and for less than you may deserve after an accident. They may use tactics such as denying or downplaying your injuries or shifting blame onto you to minimize their payout.
With an experienced car accident attorney by your side. You can ensure that your rights are protected and that you receive fair compensation for damages such as medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering.
3. Gathering Evidence
Building a solid case requires gathering evidence such as police reports, witness statements, medical records, and photographs from the accident scene.
A car accident attorney has the resources and experience to gather this evidence efficiently while adhering to legal requirements.
Benefits of having legal representation:
Having legal representation after a car accident has numerous benefits, especially in a bustling city like Houston.
From navigating complex laws and insurance policies to ensuring fair compensation for damages and injuries, hiring a Houston car accident attorney can make all the difference in your case.
Here are some of the critical advantages of having legal representation after a crash:
1. Knowledge and Experience:
One of the most significant benefits of hiring a Houston car accident attorney is their knowledge and experience handling similar cases.
They have a deep understanding of state laws and regulations and experience dealing with insurance companies and other lawyers.
This expertise allows them to navigate through the complexities of your case and ensure that you receive fair compensation.
2. Legal Protection:
After an accident, you may be vulnerable to legal action from the other party involved. Having an experienced lawyer by your side offers protection against any potential lawsuits or false claims made against you.
Your attorney will handle all communication with the opposing party’s lawyers, protecting you from further stress or complications.
3. Thorough Investigation:
A skilled Houston car accident attorney will thoroughly investigate your case to gather evidence and accurately determine liability.
They will work with experts such as accident reconstructionists, medical professionals, and witnesses to build a strong case on your behalf.
How a car accident attorney can help you with insurance claims?
A car accident can be a traumatic experience, both physically and mentally. On top of dealing with any injuries or damages to your vehicle, you may also have to navigate the complicated world of insurance claims. This process can be overwhelming and confusing, especially if you are still recovering from the accident.
This is where a car accident attorney can help. They are trained professionals who specialize in handling insurance claims and advocating for their clients’ rights.
Here’s how they can assist you with your insurance claim after a car accident:
- Insurance policies can be complex and filled with legal jargon that may be difficult for the average person to understand. A car accident attorney has extensive knowledge and experience in interpreting insurance policies, including coverage limits, exclusions, and other essential details that could affect your claim.
- Gathering evidence from the accident scene is crucial to compile a strong case for your insurance claim. This may include taking photos of the damage, obtaining witness statements, obtaining police reports, and more. An experienced car accident attorney knows exactly what evidence will strengthen your claim and how to get it efficiently.
- After filing an insurance claim, you will likely be contacted by an at-fault driver’s insurance company adjuster. Who will attempt to settle the claim as quickly as possible for as little compensation as possible? This is when having a skilled car accident attorney on your side becomes essential.
Steps to take after a car accident:
Being involved in a car accident can be a traumatic and overwhelming experience. In the aftermath of such an event, take specific steps to ensure your safety and protect your rights. Maximizing your chances of receiving fair compensation for damages or injuries is essential.
1. Check for injuries: The first and most important step after a car accident is to check yourself and others involved for any damages. If anyone is seriously injured, call 911 immediately.
2. Move to a safe location: If possible, move your vehicle out of traffic to avoid further accidents or injury. If you cannot drive the car due to its position or your injuries, turn on the hazard lights and wait for help.
3. Call the police: It is crucial to report the accident to the police as soon as possible. They will document the accident scene, gather information from all parties involved, and create an official report that can be used as evidence in potential legal proceedings.
4. Exchange information: While waiting for the police, exchange contact and insurance information with other drivers involved in the accident. This includes their name, phone number, address, license plate number, insurance company name, and policy number.
5. Document the scene: Use your phone or camera to take photos of the accident scene from multiple angles. This can serve as valuable evidence later on when determining fault for the crash.
Common mistakes people make after a car accident;
After a car accident, the shock and stress of the situation can make it difficult to think clearly. It is common for people to make mistakes in the aftermath of a crash, which can have severe consequences for their ability to seek compensation for damages or injuries.
In this section, we will discuss some of the most common mistakes people make after a car accident and highlight why contacting a Houston car accident attorney is crucial as soon as possible.
One of the most common mistakes people make after a car accident is not seeking medical attention immediately. Even if you do not feel any significant pain during the crash, it is essential to get checked by a medical professional. Adrenaline and shock can mask symptoms; some injuries may not be apparent later.
By waiting too long to seek medical attention, you could risk exacerbating your injuries and potentially weakening your compensation case.
Conclusion
Hiring a Houston car accident attorney after a crash protects your rights and ensures fair compensation for injuries or damages sustained. The aftermath of a car accident can be overwhelming and confusing, especially if you are dealing with physical injuries and emotional distress. A skilled legal representative can ease the burden and help you navigate the complex legal process.
One of the main reasons you need a car accident attorney in Houston is to protect your interests against insurance companies. It’s no secret that insurance companies prioritize their profits over the needs of their clients.