After a car accident in Austin, Texas, stop at the scene, check for injuries, call 911 when required, exchange information, document the crash, and seek medical attention if you are injured. Texas law requires drivers involved in certain crashes to stop, provide information, and render reasonable assistance to injured people.
Taking these steps can protect your health and preserve important evidence if you later pursue an insurance claim or personal injury case.
What Should I Do Immediately After a Car Accident in Austin?
Immediately after an Austin car accident, prioritize safety and medical care. Per Texas Transportation Code § 550.021, you must stop, render aid, and remain at the scene if injuries are likely.
Additionally, Texas Transportation Code § 550.026 requires reporting qualifying crashes to law enforcement. Calling 911 ensures an official investigation and documentation of the scene, which is vital for establishing fault.
You should also collect evidence, such as insurance, witness, and photographic information, to document the scene while avoiding arguments about fault. Finally, seek medical attention if you are injured or develop symptoms; medical records provide crucial documentation for potential injury claims.
Should I Talk to the Insurance Company After an Austin Car Accident?
You should report the accident as required by your insurance policy, but be careful when discussing injuries, fault, or settlement with an insurance adjuster. Statements about how the accident happened or how you feel can affect the handling of a claim.
An insurance company may request a recorded statement or offer a settlement before the full extent of your injuries is known. You can speak with a personal injury lawyer before accepting a settlement or providing a detailed statement to another driver’s insurer.
Can I Recover Compensation if I Was Partly Responsible for an Austin Car Accident?
Texas law can permit an Austin car accident victim to recover damages when the victim’s percentage of responsibility is not greater than 50%. Under Texas Civil Practice and Remedies Code § 33.001, a claimant who is more than 50% responsible cannot recover damages under the state’s proportionate responsibility rules.
When recovery is permitted, the claimant’s damages are generally reduced according to the percentage of responsibility assigned to the claimant.
When Should I Contact an Austin Car Accident Lawyer?
You should consider contacting an Austin car accident lawyer promptly when you have suffered injuries, liability is disputed, or an insurance company is challenging your claim. Early legal assistance can help preserve evidence and prevent costly mistakes during the claims process.
McMinn Personal Injury Lawyers has over 40 years of combined experience and has recovered over $500 million. We can investigate a crash, gather evidence, identify responsible parties, calculate damages, and negotiate with insurers on behalf of an injured client.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I Have to Call the Police After an Austin Car Accident?
Texas requires immediate reporting when a collision results in injury, death, or damage that prevents a vehicle from being normally and safely driven.
How Long Do I Have to Sue After an Austin Car Accident?
Texas Civil Practice and Remedies Code § 16.003 establishes a two-year limitations period for most personal injury claims.
What Damages Can I Recover After an Austin Car Accident?
A car accident claim can include medical expenses, lost income, reduced earning capacity, property damage, pain and suffering, and other legally recoverable losses.
How Much Does an Austin Car Accident Lawyer Cost?
Many personal injury lawyers handle car accident cases on a contingency fee basis, meaning the attorney’s fee is based on compensation recovered for the client. The specific fee depends on the agreement.
What Should I Avoid Doing After a Car Accident?
Avoid leaving the scene unlawfully, admitting fault, posting detailed information about the crash online, or accepting a settlement before understanding your injuries and losses.
Contact the Austin Car Accident Lawyers at McMinn Personal Injury Lawyers to Schedule a Free Consultation Today
The steps you take after an Austin car accident can affect your health and your ability to pursue compensation. Consider seeking legal assistance when another party may be responsible.
The attorneys at McMinn Personal Injury Lawyers have over 40 years of combined experience and have recovered over $500 million in compensation for our injured clients. For more information, reach out to us to schedule a free consultation with an Austin car accident attorney today.
If you’ve been injured, contact your nearest McMinn Law Firm location to schedule a free consultation today. We proudly serve clients throughout Austin, TX in Travis County, as well as Salt Lake City, UT in Salt Lake County.
McMinn Law Firm – Austin, TX Office
502 W 14th St, Austin, TX 78701
(512) 474-0222
McMinn Law Firm – Salt Lake City, UT Office
650 S 500 W Suite 290, Salt Lake City, UT 84104
(385) 462-7630
