If you’ve been involved in a car wreck, there are several important steps you should take:
- Ensure safety: Prioritize your safety and the safety of others involved. If possible, move your vehicle out of traffic to prevent further accidents. Turn on your hazard lights and set up warning signs or flares, if available.
- Check for injuries: Assess yourself and others for injuries. If anyone requires immediate medical attention, call 911 or ask someone else to make the call.
- Notify the authorities: Contact the Houston Police Department or the relevant law enforcement agency to report the accident. Provide accurate information about the location, number of vehicles involved, and any injuries sustained.
- Exchange information: Exchange contact, insurance, and vehicle details with the other party involved in the accident. Collect their name, phone number, address, driver’s license number, license plate number, and insurance information. It’s crucial to remain calm and polite during this process.
- Gather evidence: If it’s safe to do so, take photos of the accident scene, including the damage to the vehicles, skid marks, and any relevant road conditions. This evidence may be helpful when filing an insurance claim.
- Seek witness statements: If there were any witnesses to the accident, collect their contact information and ask if they would be willing to provide a statement regarding what they saw.
- Report the accident to your insurance company: Notify your insurance company about the accident as soon as possible. Provide them with accurate and detailed information about the incident. They will guide you through the claims process.
- Consult with an attorney (if necessary): If there were significant damages, injuries, or legal complexities involved in the accident, it may be wise to consult with a personal injury attorney who specializes in car accidents. They can provide guidance and ensure your rights are protected.
Remember, Wester Law Office is here to advise you on any issues regarding your accident. Call our office at 281.766.4878 to book a free consultation.