Are you an injured victim of a car accident in the greater Houston area? Have you been searching for sound advice about how to make your claim efficiently and successfully? If so, look no further—the experts at Nava Law Group want to help! Whether you’ve been involved in a minor collision or a much more serious one, our experienced attorneys can guide you every step of the way through the complicated claims process. Read on to learn what to expect throughout your journey and why it’s important not to go it alone.
Step 1: Gather Information
The first step in the car accident claims process is to gather crucial information about the crash. This includes the names, addresses, and phone numbers of all parties involved, insurance information, the police report, and medical records if you sustained injuries. Try to document everything and take pictures of the accident scene if possible. This information will be essential in determining liability and negotiating with the insurance company.
Determining fault becomes a critical step in the process. It’s not always black and white, and several factors come into play. Important considerations include the police report, eyewitness testimony, and any available video recordings. It’s also essential to determine if either party was intoxicated or distracted while driving. Fault can be shared in Texas, and the degree of fault determined affects insurance settlements and potential legal action.
Step 2: Contact the Police
It’s crucial to contact the police after a car accident. Even if the accident seems minor, involving the police can help protect your rights, and it’s required by Texas law for accidents involving injuries, death, or property damages over $1,000. The police report can provide valuable information about the accident, and it’s crucial to get a copy of the report for your records.
Step 3: Seek Medical Treatment
Even if you don’t feel any pain or discomfort after a car accident, it’s critical to seek medical attention. Some injuries may not be visible or apparent immediately, and the adrenaline rush may mask the pain. Seeking medical treatment can help document your injuries and provide a timeline of your medical treatment. It’s also essential to keep a record of your medical expenses and prescriptions.
Step 4: Contact Your Insurance Company
After a car accident, it’s essential to contact your insurance company and report the accident. Your insurance company may require you to provide details about the accident and the damages you’ve suffered. They will assign a claims adjuster to investigate the crash and assess the damages. They may also provide you with information about your coverage and what your policy includes.
By law, you’re required to report any car accident that results in injury, death, or property damage exceeding $1,000 within ten days of the incident. Failure to do so may result in legal penalties.
Step 5: Contact an Experienced Car Accident Attorney
Navigating through the car accident claims process in Texas can be a daunting task, but having an experienced car accident attorney on your side can help you protect your rights. A skilled attorney can help investigate the accident, gather evidence, negotiate with the insurance adjusters, and help you maximize your compensation. At Nava Law Group, we have a team of experienced attorneys dedicated to helping you get the compensation you deserve.
Step 6: Negotiate with the Insurance Company
After the insurance adjuster has assessed the damages, they will present a settlement offer. It’s crucial to understand that the initial offer is most likely going to be lower than what you’re entitled to. Don’t accept the first settlement offer, and don’t sign anything without consulting a car accident lawyer. You have the right to negotiate with the insurance company to get the compensation you deserve. Your attorney will help you counter the initial offer and negotiate until you reach a fair settlement.
Step 7: File a Lawsuit
If negotiations fail, filing a lawsuit may be the only option left to get the compensation you deserve. In Texas, the statute of limitations for filing a personal injury claim is two years from the date of the accident. Consult a car accident attorney to determine if filing a lawsuit is the best course of action for your case. A lawsuit will involve legal proceedings that demand good knowledge of legal procedures, rules of evidence, and trial advocacy.
Step 8: Go to Trial
If your case proceeds to trial, your attorney will present the evidence to the judge or jury. The trial process can be long and stressful, and it requires patience and adherence to legal rules and procedures. Your attorney will guide and support you throughout the trial, ensuring that you get a satisfactory outcome.
Get Help Filing Your Car Accident Claim in Texas with the Nava Law Group
Completing the claims process in Texas after a car accident can seem daunting, but it doesn’t have to be. With an understanding of the accident protocol and the impact your insurance coverage has on your claim, you will be better equipped to manage a successful outcome. Additionally, having access to an experienced personal injury attorney increases your likelihood of recovering damages for any medical costs or financial losses incurred from any vehicle accident. If you would like further advice or assistance to file a car accident claim in Texas, contact the experienced legal team at Nava Law Group in Houston, TX at 713.661.9900. They are always willing to provide answers and resources to move forward with a strong personal injury case while you focus on healing from an accident-induced trauma.
