How to Collect Important Evidence After a Car Accident in Houston, Texas

At the Hollingsworth Law Firm, our auto accident attorneys in Houston know firsthand how quickly things move after a crash occurs on our Texas roadways. The crash itself is something most people do not see coming, which creates significant confusion. Next, the adrenaline that rushes through the body after a crash is a feeling that can leave injury victims physically shaken, and unaware of just how hurt they are.

When a negligent driver — which could include a speeding, impaired, distracted, or red-light running driver — is liable for your crash, you are going to need evidence that points to their recklessness. Unfortunately, the most opportune time to collect critical evidence is immediately after the crash occurs.

We know it will not be easy, because the fallout from a vehicle collision is widespread. However, here are five ways you can help protect your personal injury case, so you are not left paying the expenses out of pocket.

Step One: Call 911.

In most cases, when witnesses see a crash occur, they will call 911 immediately to get help for those involved. However, you should do so too, just to be sure the urgency of the collision is on record.

When the police arrive, they will note whether the other driver was impaired, speeding, or otherwise operating their vehicle recklessly, so it is in their official report. Law enforcement will also record the names and contact information of witnesses, and all involved parties for reference later.

Step Two: Take Photos of the Crash Scene

Do not assume law enforcement is recording the visual crash details. Use your cellphone to take pictures of the vehicles, where they landed in the crash, and the streets around the crash, so the orientation of the vehicles is understandable. Be sure to capture any traffic lights or signs nearby that can help show how the crash occurred.

For quick reference, be sure to take pictures of:

• The accident site.
• Damage to all vehicles involved in the crash.
• Property damage of nearby objects, and your personal possessions.
• License plates and insurance information of all vehicles involved in the crash.
• Your physical injuries – now and as they heal.
• The streets, directional signage, or other identifying markers where the collision occurred.

Step Three: Talk to Witnesses Before they Leave the Crash Scene

Although the official accident report will contain the names and contact details of the witnesses who stayed behind and gave a statement, you should do the same. Do not engage in conversations regarding what you think happened or lead the conversation. Allow the witnesses to tell you what they saw while it is fresh in their minds, so no detail is left to chance, or simply forgotten, as they return to their busy lives later.

Step Four: Get Medical Help Immediately

The adrenaline from a Texas vehicle collision can mask your injuries for hours, or even days. It can also keep you from understanding exactly how injured you are. This is dangerous and can put your overall well-being at risk.

Seek medical care immediately after leaving the crash to ensure your injuries are identified and a treatment plan is put in place. Be sure to follow all your physicians’ instructions, including taking time away from work to heal, and attend all follow-up appointments, so you can get your life back.

Step Five: Contact Our Skilled Car Accident Attorneys in Houston, Texas Today

Pursuing help from an auto accident attorney in Houston will remove challenges the negligent driver’s insurance company will present to keep you from obtaining the true value of your injuries. We can help ensure your case is outlined fully, negotiate on your behalf, and pursue the positive outcome you deserve.

Contact our dedicated Houston car accident lawyers at the Hollingsworth Law Firm today by calling 713-637-4560 or contact us online for a free case evaluation.

Our skilled Houston personal injury lawyers and support staff represent clients throughout the state of Texas on a contingency basis, so you never pay any legal fees unless we win your case.

If you are ready to fight for the compensation you deserve, so are we. Let us take the lead.