hand signal appearing on crosswalk signaling don't crossAfter a Houston car accident, things can seem pretty confusing. What happened? Am I hurt? Is anybody else hurt? How did it happen? Whose fault was it?

In this discombobulated state, it can be easy to make mistakes—mistakes that may cost you in the long run. Here’s a checklist provided by our Pasadena personal injury attorney of things to remember to do—and not to do—after a Texas car crash.

What to Do (and Not to Do) After a Houston Car Accident

Do: Call the Police

Some people are reluctant to call the police after a crash, but the fact is that you want a police officer to create a detailed report of what happened that can be used as evidence later.

Do Not: Talk With the Other Driver About the Cause of the Crash

It is perfectly fine to check on the other driver after an accident, but you should not engage in any conversation about the cause of the crash—and you certainly should not admit fault.

Do: Get Medical Care

Even if you do not think you suffered any major injuries in a Houston car accident, it is important that you get checked out by a doctor. This is, of course, important for your health, but it can also provide important proof of the extent of your injuries.

Do Not: Give a Recorded Statement to an Insurance Company or Negotiate on Your Own

Insurance companies are interested in reducing the amount they have to pay out to accident victims. It is very important that you do not go on the record with an insurance company—and even more important that you do not try to negotiate a settlement on your own.

Do: Gather Evidence and Get Witness Contact Information

Take pictures of the accident scene—including damage to vehicles, skid marks on the pavement, and anything else that seems relevant to the crash. Talk to people who saw what happened and request their contact information.

Do Not: Post About the Accident on Social Media

Some people seem to post absolutely everything about their lives to social media. But when it comes to a car crash, that’s a terrible idea. You don’t want the other driver or their insurance company to be able to use what you say on Facebook or elsewhere as a way to lower the amount they might owe you in damages.

Do: Hire a Personal Injury Attorney

When it comes to ensuring that you are properly compensated after a car accident, the best move you can make to hire an experienced personal injury attorney. If you have been hurt in a Houston car accident, contact SJ Injury Attorneys today to learn more about how we can help.

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