Steps to File a Personal Injury Claim After a Houston Car Accident

Car accidents happen fast, but dealing with the aftermath takes time. If you've been hurt in a Houston crash, knowing the right steps to file your injury claim can make a big difference in getting fair compensation. This guide walks you through the process of filing a car accident claim in Houston.

Immediate Steps After the Accident

What you do right after the crash matters. Take these steps:

1. Check for injuries and call 911
2. Move to a safe spot if possible
3. Get police on the scene
4. Take photos of all damage
5. Get witness contact information
6. Don't admit fault to anyone

Getting Medical Care

Your health comes first. Here's what to do:

• Get checked by EMTs at the scene
• Go to the ER if needed
• See your doctor within 24 hours
• Follow all treatment plans
• Keep all medical records
• Track all expenses

Gathering Important Evidence

Strong evidence helps your case. Collect:

• Police accident report
• Photos of injuries and damage
• Witness statements
• Medical records and bills
• Lost wage documentation
• Insurance information

Dealing with Insurance Companies

Be careful with insurance adjusters:

• Report the accident to your insurance
• Don't give recorded statements
• Don't accept quick settlement offers
• Don't sign any papers
• Let your Houston car accident lawyer handle talks

Understanding Your Rights

Texas law gives you rights after a crash:

• Right to seek compensation for injuries
• Right to get
• Right to get medical care
• Right to lost wage recovery
• Right to pain and suffering damages
• Right to legal representation

Filing Your Injury Claim

Follow these steps to file your claim:

1. Get medical treatment first
2. Gather all evidence
3. Calculate all damages
4. Send demand letter
5. Negotiate settlement
6. File lawsuit if needed

Types of Compensation Available

You may be able to recover:

• Medical expenses
• Lost wages
• Pain and suffering
• Property damage
• Future medical costs
• Loss of earning capacity

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Don't hurt your case by:

• Waiting too long to get medical care
• Talking to insurance adjusters alone
• Posting about the crash on social media
• Taking quick settlement offers
• Not following doctor's orders

Working with a Lawyer

A Houston personal injury attorney will:

• Investigate your crash
• Handle insurance companies
• Calculate fair compensation
• File legal paperwork
• Fight for your rights
• Take your case to court if needed

Time Limits for Filing

Don't wait too long:

• Report crash to police immediately
• Tell insurance within 24 hours
• See doctor within 72 hours
• File lawsuit within 2 years

Frequently Asked Questions

How long do I have to file a claim? In Texas, you have 2 years from the crash date to file a lawsuit. But don't wait - evidence can disappear quickly.

What if the other driver has no insurance? Your uninsured motorist coverage may help. A lawyer can explain all your options.

How much is my case worth? Each case is different. Value depends on injury severity, medical bills, lost wages, and other factors.

Should I take the insurance company's first offer? No. First offers are usually low. Let a lawyer negotiate for fair compensation.

What if I was partly at fault? You can still recover damages if you're less than 51% at fault under Texas law.

Get Help With Your Car Accident Claim

Don't handle a car accident claim alone. Our experienced Houston injury lawyers will protect your rights and fight for fair compensation. Contact Leo & Oginni Personal Injury Lawyers, PLLC at 713-280-3204 now to schedule a consultation to learn how we can help with your case.

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