With over 950,000 residents, it makes sense that Fort Worth would experience a large number of auto accidents. In 2023, the city saw 13,249 accidents, 4,809 of which caused injuries and 106 fatalities.
Unfortunately, the trend of accidents is not decreasing, which means the likelihood of collisions on Fort Worth roads and highways is significant.
If you are involved in a collision, do you know what steps to take or how to protect yourself and your rights? Unfortunately, remaining calm and taking the right steps in stressful situations can be difficult.
While true, we are here to help. At Patterson Law Group, our Fort Worth car wreck lawyers can help guide you through the steps you should take after a collision. We will be your advocate and ensure that your rights are protected.
Ensure Safety and Check for Injuries
The first step after a car accident is to ensure the safety of everyone involved. If possible, move your vehicle to a safe location out of traffic to avoid further incidents.
Turn on your hazard lights to alert other drivers of the accident scene. Check yourself and your passengers for any injuries. Staying calm and composed is crucial, as panic can exacerbate the situation.
Call Emergency Services
Dial 911 immediately to report the accident and request medical assistance if necessary. Even if injuries seem minor, it’s important to have a thorough medical evaluation.
Some injuries might not be immediately apparent and could worsen over time. The arrival of police officers will also ensure that an official accident report is filed—a document that will be important when consulting with car accident lawyers in Fort Worth.
Assist Others if Possible
If it is safe, check on the well-being of other individuals involved in the accident, including drivers, passengers, and pedestrians. Offer assistance, but avoid moving anyone injured, which could cause further harm. Instead, wait for medical professionals to arrive and manage the situation.
Gather Evidence at the Scene
While waiting for emergency services, gather as much information as possible. Take photographs of the accident scene, vehicle damages, and any visible injuries.
Collect contact information from witnesses who might provide valuable statements later. This evidence can be pivotal when discussing your case with a Fort Worth auto accident lawyer.
By ensuring safety and promptly addressing any injuries, you lay a solid foundation for the subsequent steps in dealing with the aftermath of a car accident.
Avoid Admitting Fault
After an accident, you may be a bit overwhelmed. However, avoid admitting fault, even if you might be partially responsible.
Statements made in the heat of the moment can have significant legal repercussions. At Patterson Law Group, our Fort Worth car wreck lawyers emphasize the importance of staying calm and choosing your words carefully following an accident.
Limit Conversations
After ensuring everyone’s safety and contacting emergency services, limit your conversations with others involved in the accident. Exchange only necessary information, such as names, contact details, and insurance information.
Do not discuss the specifics of the accident or make statements that could be interpreted as admitting fault. Instead, let the police document the scene and handle the questions about the incident.
Be Cautious with Insurance Companies
Insurance companies may contact you soon after the accident. While reporting the incident to your insurer is important, be cautious when providing details.
Stick to the basic facts and avoid speculating about who was at fault. Insurance adjusters may use any information you provide to minimize their payout. Consulting with a Fort Worth auto accident lawyer before giving a detailed statement can protect your interests.
Notify Your Insurance Company
After a car accident, you must notify your insurance company immediately. Promptly reporting the incident helps initiate the claims process and ensures that the necessary information is documented.
Provide Basic Information
When informing your insurance company about the accident, provide only the essential details. This includes the accident’s date, time, and location, the names and contact information of those involved, and the extent of vehicle damage.
Avoid giving a detailed account of the accident or speculating about who was at fault, as these discussions are best handled by your Fort Worth auto accident lawyer.
Document All Correspondence
Record all communications with your insurance company, including phone calls, emails, and letters. Documenting these interactions can be crucial if disputes arise later in the claims process.
Maintain a log with the date, time, and name of the representative you spoke with and a conversation summary.
Do Not Accept Early Settlement Offers
Insurance companies might offer a quick settlement to close the claim swiftly. However, these initial offers may not fully cover your expenses, especially if there are ongoing medical treatments or long-term impacts from the accident.
Before accepting any offer, consult with a Fort Worth auto accident lawyer to assess the full extent of your damages and ensure you receive fair compensation.
By promptly notifying your insurance company and following these guidelines, you position yourself for a smoother claims process.
Understand Your Rights and Legal Options
Understanding your rights and legal options following a car accident is essential for protecting your interests and securing fair compensation.
At Patterson Law Group, our Fort Worth car wreck lawyers are dedicated to helping you navigate the complexities of personal injury law and making informed decisions.
Know Your Rights
After a car accident, it’s vital to recognize and understand your legal rights. These include the right to seek compensation for medical bills, lost wages, property damage, and pain and suffering.
You also have the right to legal representation and refuse any settlement offers until you consult a Fort Worth auto accident lawyer. Your rights are designed to protect you from unjust practices and ensure you receive fair treatment throughout the legal process.
Schedule a Legal Consultation
One of the first steps in understanding your legal options is to schedule a consultation with a knowledgeable car accident lawyer. During this meeting, your Fort Worth car wreck lawyer can assess the specifics of your case, explain potential legal avenues, and advise on the best course of action.
An initial consultation often clarifies many uncertainties and sets the stage for an effective legal strategy. At Patterson Law Group, we offer free consultations. We also offer clients a “No Win, No Fee” guarantee.
Explore Legal Recourse
There are several legal recourse options available following a car accident. Depending on the circumstances, you may file a personal injury claim, pursue a settlement through insurance negotiations, or initiate a lawsuit if a fair agreement cannot be reached.
Understanding these options and the potential outcomes can help you make informed decisions.
Stay Informed Throughout the Process
The legal landscape is dynamic and can be complex. Staying informed about your case and understanding each step of the process can alleviate stress and empower you to make educated decisions.
Regular communication with your Fort Worth auto accident lawyer ensures you are updated on developments and prepared for necessary actions.
Partner with Patterson Law Group for Guidance After an Auto Accident
Navigating the aftermath of a car accident can be overwhelming, but having the right support and resources makes a significant difference. By documenting all interactions, avoiding premature settlements, and understanding your rights and options, you set the foundation for a strong case.
Partnering with Patterson Law Group ensures you have dedicated Fort Worth car wreck lawyers committed to advocating for your best interests. From the initial consultation to resolving your case, our team provides the legal guidance necessary to secure fair compensation and justice.
Trust Patterson Law Group to stand by your side, helping you navigate the complexities of personal injury law and achieve a favorable outcome.
