Being involved in a serious car accident in Houston can instantly throw your life into turmoil. You’re likely facing mounting medical bills, lost wages from missed work, and the aggressive tactics of an insurance company trying to minimize your payout.
The decision you make right after the crash—specifically, who you choose to represent you—will significantly impact your future financial stability. This guide breaks down the essential steps to protect your personal injury claim and explains what an experienced Houston car accident lawyer can do to secure the maximum compensation you deserve.
The Critical Steps to Protect Your Personal Injury Claim
The actions you take in the hours and days following a crash are vital. Insurance companies begin building their defense against your personal injury claim immediately.
1. Prioritize Medical Treatment and Documentation
- Seek Immediate Care: Even if you feel fine, see a doctor. Symptoms of injuries like whiplash or a Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI) can be delayed. Delaying treatment gives the insurance company grounds to argue your injuries are not serious or were not caused by the accident.
- Follow Doctor’s Orders: Attend all follow-up appointments, physical therapy sessions, and specialist visits. Consistency is proof of the severity of your injuries.
- Keep Records: Save every document, including bills, prescription lists, and appointment summaries. Medical records are the backbone of your personal injury claim.
2. Document the Accident Scene and Your Losses
If possible, safely take photos and videos at the scene showing:
- Damage to all vehicles.
- Skid marks and road conditions.
- Traffic signs, lights, or warnings.
- The license plates of all vehicles and the ID/insurance cards of all drivers.
- Track Your Losses: Maintain a daily journal detailing your pain levels, how the injury affects your daily life, and every hour of work you miss. This helps quantify your “pain and suffering” and lost earning capacity.
3. Do NOT Talk to the Other Driver’s Insurance Company
This is the single most important piece of advice. The adjuster for the at-fault driver’s insurance is NOT on your side. Their goal is to get you to:
- Give a recorded statement (which will be twisted to blame you).
- Sign a medical authorization release (giving them access to unrelated health history).
- Accept a quick, low-ball settlement offer before you know the full extent of your injuries.
Direct all communication to your Houston car accident lawyer.
Why You Need a Trial-Ready Houston Car Accident Lawyer
Many people try to handle their initial claim alone, only to find the insurance company offers a fraction of what their case is actually worth. An experienced personal injury lawyer is essential for:
- Determining True Liability: We investigate the accident, collect police reports, interview witnesses, and, if necessary, work with accident reconstruction specialists to prove the other driver’s negligence.
- Calculating Full Damages: An attorney accounts for all compensable losses, including:
- Economic Damages: Current and future medical bills, lost wages, and loss of earning capacity.
- Non-Economic Damages: Pain and suffering, mental anguish, disfigurement, and loss of consortium.
- Aggressive Negotiation: We negotiate from a position of strength, knowing the insurance company’s tactics and fully prepared to take the case to a Harris County jury if they refuse a fair settlement.
The Types of Car Accident Injuries We Handle
Our practice focuses on victims with serious, life-altering injuries that require extensive medical care and long-term financial support. We handle claims involving:
- Traumatic Brain Injuries (TBI) and Concussions.
- Spinal Cord Injuries and Back/Neck Trauma.
- Whiplash and Soft Tissue Injuries.
- Broken Bones and Fractures.
- Wrongful Death claims arising from fatal crashes.
If your injury has disrupted your life and your ability to work, you need legal counsel with a proven record of winning maximum value for complex car accident cases in Houston.
Get Your Free Case Review Today
Don’t settle for less than you deserve. If you or a loved one has been injured in a crash, call our firm today for a free, no-obligation consultation. Let an experienced Houston car accident lawyer fight the insurance company so you can focus on your recovery. Remember: No Recovery, No Fee.
