Jason Stephens | October 29, 2022 | Car Accidents
Whether you live in the city or the country, car accidents are an unfortunate problem. With over six million accidents every year, the risk of getting into an accident in the United States is worth noting.
And when you factor in that over one-sixth of those accidents are fatal, it’s clear that car accidents are definitely something you should prepare for.
Fatal collisions aside, the majority of accidents range from the more serious end of the spectrum to minor fender benders. Fortunately, most fender benders result in minor property damage and no serious injuries.
Due to the mild nature of these types of accidents, motorists are sometimes confused when it comes to whether they should call the police. If you live in Fort Worth, TX, it is important to know what you need to do in the event of a fender bender.
Stay at the Scene
Although you might think of a fender bender as a minor accident, it is important to remain at the scene. In fact, in the State of Texas, this is required by law, even if you were not at fault or if there is minimal damage.
Leaving the scene could get you fined or can even result in jail time. Additionally, it’s best to be mindful of your words on the scene, as they could be interpreted as an admission of guilt.
Call the Police
Once you have determined whether you or the other driver sustained injuries, make sure to call the police. They will ask you where the accident happened and whether anyone was injured.
Even if you were only involved in a minor accident, it is important to notify the police. Once they arrive, the officer will begin writing a report and gathering the information required for a claim.
Make sure to request a copy of this accident report and exchange insurance information with all involved parties.
Accident Reports Under Texas Law
The State of Texas requires all accidents to be reported if any of the following are true:
- There were any injuries
- Someone passed away
- Property damage from the accident exceeded $1,000
Failure to report an accident could result in fines, imprisonment, or both.
Minor Accidents and Major Injuries
Although the accident may have been minor, it is important to have the police on the scene in case one of the parties claims more extensive injuries at a later date. Just because they are fine at the moment does not mean injuries sustained from the accident won’t become more apparent later.
Call Your Insurance Company
After calling the police, you will want to call your insurance company and report the accident as soon as possible. This will allow them to initiate a claim and get you on the road to compensation.
Failure to call your insurance company in a reasonable amount of time could result in a denial of your claim or a delay in compensation. Much like speaking to the police, make sure to stick to the facts when speaking with your insurance company.
You may also need to initiate a claim with the other driver’s insurance company, especially if the accident was their fault.
A Fort Worth Car Accident Lawyer Can Help
If you find yourself in a car accident, the steps you should take in the immediate aftermath are best completed with the assistance of an experienced car accident lawyer.
Even if the accident was only a fender bender, proper representation can ensure you secure the compensation you deserve and protect your rights as an individual. Otherwise, the other side or their insurance company may attempt to take advantage of you.
Keep in mind that insurance adjusters are incentivized to minimize your claim, even if they are employed by your own insurance company. Hiring an attorney can greatly increase your bargaining power and your chances of a favorable outcome.
Contact Our Car Accident Law Firm in Fort Worth, TX
If you’ve been injured in an accident in Fort Worth and need legal help, contact our Fort Worth car accident lawyers at Stephens Law Personal Injury | Wrongful Death | Truck Accidents to schedule a free consultation.
Stephens Law Personal Injury | Wrongful Death | Truck Accidents
1300 S University Dr # 300
Fort Worth, TX 76107
(817) 420-7000