What to Do After a Car Accident in Fort Worth
Being in a high-speed traffic collision is a uniquely stressful and unsettling experience, and it can be difficult even for someone who is usually level-headed to stay calm and act proactively in the aftermath of a serious wreck. At the same time, though, what you do right after being involved in a crash can have a big impact on your ability to recover financially from the effects of that crash later on.
With that in mind, it can be helpful to know what to do after a car accident in Fort Worth and what impact those actions could have on an ensuing insurance claim or civil lawsuit. If you have additional questions about how to handle a situation like this, you have help available to you from a dedicated car wreck attorney with a track record of getting good results from cases much like yours.
What Does State Law Require Me to Do After a Car Crash?
Under Texas state law, everyone involved in a traffic accident that results in any vehicle damage, any collision with an unoccupied vehicle or road fixture, or any injury to a person must:
- Stop as close to the crash scene as is safely possible
- Render aid to anyone in need of it by calling 911
- Wait at the scene until the police arrive
You must also exchange contact and insurance information with every other person involved in the incident. This includes your:
- Name
- Address
- Vehicle registration number
- Driver’s license number, if requested
Failing to do any of these things could not only lead to you facing criminal charges for “hit and run,” but could also seriously impede your pursuit of financial recovery for injuries and losses caused by the collision.
What Else Should I Do Before Leaving a Car Accident Scene?
Unless you have suffered a serious injury requiring immediate medical attention, you should do your best after a car accident in Fort Worth to start collecting evidence, which could be useful for an insurance claim or third-party lawsuit later on. This can entail doing things like:
- Taking photos/videos of the accident scene and all vehicle damage
- Getting contact information from eyewitnesses
- Noting nearby surveillance or dashboard cameras that may have caught the accident on film
Should I Go to the Doctor After a Car Wreck Even If I Feel Fine?
No matter what, it is always a good idea to go to an emergency room, visit an urgent care clinic, or schedule an appointment with your primary care physician as soon as possible after being in a car accident in Fort Worth. Even if nothing seems wrong right after the wreck occurs, certain types of injuries can take several hours or even days to produce symptoms; by that point it may be too late to avoid serious long-term harm.
How Could an Attorney Help After a Car Accident in Fort Worth?
Representation from a skilled legal professional can streamline every one of the steps mentioned above that you should take after a car accident in Fort Worth. From gathering crucial information to making effective use of medical records and other evidence in the pursuit of fair financial restitution, a capable lawyer could guide you through every step. Call today to schedule a private consultation.