How to Tell Who Is at Fault in a Car Accident
The Six Steps You Need to Take
Once the violent impact of a car crash is over, it can leave you feeling confused about what just occurred. The driver responsible for the crash may point the finger at you when, in fact, the accident was due to their negligence. By following the important steps listed below, you will be better prepared to protect your best interests for your future medical and financial needs. If you experienced serious injuries in an accident that was not your fault, give careful thought to contacting a car accident lawyer as soon as possible.
1. Avoid Admitting Fault at the Scene
It is difficult to see another person injured. While you may feel sorry for the other driver, never apologize for the crash. Telling the other driver you are sorry or that it was your fault are statements that are difficult to retract later. No matter how much compassion or empathy you feel toward the other person, do not discuss the accident with them.
2. Accept Medical Transport to a Hospital
You may sigh in relief that you are not visibly bleeding after the accident. Even so, accept medical transport even if you have no visible signs or symptoms of injuries. Internal injuries like head injuries or internal bleeding, if left untreated, can result in death.
Shock is another dangerous condition that results in reduced blood flow throughout the body. The trauma of a car accident can lead to shock, which limits blood and oxygen to the organs. Like internal bleeding, shock is a serious medical condition with few visible signs to warn you of the dangers. Shock, if left untreated, can also result in death.
Accepting medical transport to the hospital following your traffic accident is important for your health—and for future civil action. Medical reports can serve as valuable documentation of your injuries immediately following the accident.
3. Provide a Statement to Police
Working with first responders is another important step you must take to protect your best interests. Police officers responding to the scene want to hear your account of what happened. An official police report is one of the most valuable documents when it comes to determining fault. Once the responsible party is identified, it is easier for a car accident lawyer to know who is liable for your injuries.
Should the police charge the negligent driver with a crime, like driving under the influence (DUI), that criminal case has no bearing on any civil action. Under Texas law, you have the right to pursue compensation for your injuries. A car accident lawyer can guide you through the process and keep you informed every step of the way.
4. Gather Evidence at the Scene
Smartphones are helpful tools for capturing photos and/or videos of the accident scene. If your injuries prevent you from documenting the crash site, ask a witness to assist you.
Gathering the contact information for witnesses is also important. While some people may not want to become involved, most good Samaritans want to help. Chances are they witnessed the other driver’s dangerous behavior leading up to the crash. Your car accident lawyer may want to interview them later should you pursue legal action against the negligent driver.
5. Do Not Speak With Insurance Companies
Insurance companies know you are most vulnerable immediately following the accident. There are two main reasons why you shouldn’t speak to them:
- They may try to assign blame for the accident to you.
- They may offer a settlement that, while tempting, is less than you deserve.
Insurance companies like to use high-pressure tactics to close claims quickly and for the least amount of money possible. To prevent them from assigning blame for your accident to you, don’t speak with them and secure legal representation instead.
6. Hire a Car Accident Lawyer
A sudden car accident instantly changes your life. No matter how badly you were injured, you must adjust to your new normal after the accident. Depending upon the severity of your injuries, your life may never return to the way it was before the accident.
No one should have to pay out-of-pocket for expenses that result from an accident that was no fault of their own. While each case is different, the right attorney will negotiate for the compensation you need for your current and future medical costs. Other types of possible compensation may include lost wages and pain and suffering.
Determining who is at fault for your car accident is best left to the police. Upon a full investigation of the scene, their report can help validate your account of innocence. Filing a car accident claim holds the responsible party accountable for their reckless actions.
The statute of limitations for filing your car accident claim can pass quickly. Do not miss your opportunity for possible justice. Contact a car accident lawyer right away. Upon careful evaluation of your case, a car accident lawyer can determine the best course of action for you.
Contact a Car Accident Lawyer Today
You have enough to deal with in terms of medical procedures and appointments. Knowing your case is in good hands can provide you with the peace-of-mind you need to rest and recuperate. Sadly, some injuries result in permanent disabilities and some car accidents are deadly. By holding the responsible party accountable, you may prevent the same thing from happening to another innocent victim.
Discovering who is at fault in a car accident demands a full review of the evidence. If you were seriously injured in a car accident that was not your fault and the insurance company is trying to blame you, a car accident lawyer can help. Most car accident lawyers offer free case evaluations and collect no fee unless they win your case. You have nothing to lose by reaching out to a car accident lawyer today.
