Getting into a car accident is an overwhelming experience that can leave you shaken and unsure of what to do next. Whether it’s a minor fender bender or a more serious collision, knowing what steps to take immediately after an accident can significantly affect your ability to recover and protect your rights.
At The Zimmerman Law Firm, P.C., we understand the stress and uncertainty of a car accident. Our team has been serving Killeen and the surrounding areas since 1962, providing experienced legal counsel to individuals and families impacted by accidents.
With years of experience handling car accident claims, we’re here to guide you through the process step-by-step. From gathering evidence to navigating insurance claims, we’re committed to ensuring you get the support you need.
Here’s a detailed guide on what to do after a car accident in Killeen, TX, to protect yourself, your health, and your legal rights.
Step 1: Ensure Safety and Call for Help
The first thing you should do after a car accident is to ensure your safety and the safety of others involved in the crash. If your vehicle is still operational, try to move it out of the traffic flow if it’s safe to do so. Position your car so it doesn’t obstruct traffic, and turn on your hazard lights to alert other drivers.
If your vehicle is immobile or unsafe to move, stay inside the car with your seatbelt on until help arrives. Do not attempt to leave the scene or wander into traffic.
Once you’ve ensured everyone is safe, immediately contacting emergency services is crucial. Call 911 to report the accident. Even in cases where injuries aren’t immediately apparent, it’s always best to have paramedics assess the situation. Many injuries, such as whiplash or internal injuries, may not show symptoms until hours or even days after the accident.
Step 2: Exchange Information with Other Drivers
After securing safety and contacting emergency services, the next step is to exchange information with the other driver(s) involved in the accident. This information is vital for insurance purposes and any potential legal claims that may arise later.
Make sure to get:
- The driver’s full name,
- Driver’s license number,
- License plate number,
- Insurance company name and policy number, and
- Contact information (address and phone number).
Remember not to admit fault or speculate about the cause of the accident. It’s common to feel apologetic or to try to explain what happened, but admitting fault at the scene can harm your case later. Simply exchange information and wait for the authorities to document the facts in their report.
Step 3: Document the Scene
Proper documentation can make a huge difference when filing an insurance claim or pursuing a legal case. With the advent of smartphones, gathering evidence is easier than ever, and you should use this to your advantage.
Gather as much evidence of the accident scene as you can, such as:
- Vehicle damage. Take pictures of all vehicles involved in the accident, focusing on sustained damage. These photos can help determine the severity of the crash and establish how the collision occurred.
- The scene. Capture wide-angle shots of the surrounding area, showing the position of the vehicles, the condition of the roads, traffic signs, and any obstacles that might have contributed to the accident. If the weather was a factor (such as rain or fog), document this as well.
- Injuries. If you or anyone else is injured, take photos of any visible injuries. These photos can serve as evidence of your pain and suffering.
- Witness information. If there were witnesses to the accident, ask for their contact information. Their statements can provide additional context that supports your claim. Even if the other driver takes responsibility at the scene, it is still important to get witness information.
If there are traffic cameras or nearby store video surveillance, ask the police or local businesses if any footage is available. Video footage can be essential evidence that may reveal crucial details about the accident.
Step 4: Notify Your Insurance Company
You must report the accident to your insurance company as soon as possible. Many insurance policies have specific time frames within which you must report accidents, so it’s essential to notify them promptly.
When speaking to your insurance company, only provide the facts. Avoid making any statements that could be misinterpreted as admitting fault. Stick to the basics: the time of the accident, location, and the fact that it occurred. Allow your attorney to review any formal statements before they are submitted.
Step 5: Contact a Killeen Car Accident Lawyer
After an accident, you need legal representation to protect your rights. The Zimmerman Law Firm, P.C. has been serving the Killeen community for decades, and we are ready to help you navigate the complexities of your car accident claim. Our team has extensive experience handling all types of car accident cases, from minor fender benders to catastrophic collisions.
A seasoned Killeen car accident lawyer will help you understand your legal options, gather the necessary evidence, and negotiate with insurance companies on your behalf. Most importantly, a lawyer will ensure you aren’t exploited during this
difficult time. We offer free consultations and work on a contingency basis, so you won’t pay us unless we win your case.
Step 6: Avoid Common Mistakes
Accident victims often make a few common mistakes, negatively affecting their case. These include:
- Failing to gather enough evidence: Collect photos, witness information, and a police report.
- Not seeking medical attention: Some injuries may not be immediately apparent, even if you feel fine. That’s why you must seek medical attention no matter what.
- Making statements that could harm your case: Avoid admitting fault or downplaying your injuries to anyone other than your attorney.
- Failing to file a claim by the deadline. You only have two years to bring a car accident claim in Texas. If you miss the deadline, you are generally barred from financial recovery.
By trusting your lawyer and following their advice, you can avoid these pitfalls and improve your chances of success.
For a free legal consultation, call (254) 752-9688 or fill out our online contact form
Injured in a Car Accident in Killeen, TX? Speak to an Experienced Attorney Today
Car accidents can be traumatic and confusing, but by taking the proper steps, you can protect your health, rights, and financial future. The Zimmerman Law Firm, P.C. is here to help you through the process, providing expert legal support and fighting for the compensation you deserve.
If you’ve been in a car accident in Killeen, TX, don’t hesitate to contact us for a free consultation. We’re ready to stand by your side and ensure you get the justice you deserve.
Michael Zimmerman
Michael was born in Houston, Texas. His education at Baylor and Texas State Universities earned him a Bachelor of Science degree in 1987. His major was in Biology with a Minor in Chemistry. He finished his legal education at Texas Southern University in 1990, earning a Juris Doctorate from Thurgood Marshall School of Law. He was admitted to the State Bar of Texas in 1990.
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