What to Do If Injured in Texas Because of Negligence
Tips from Laredo Personal Injury Lawyer John R. Solis
The physical, emotional and financial impact of a Texas accident can be overwhelming. You may be confused and frustrated. We recommend you call us immediately for help: 866-465-9093. But before you call us, you can take steps in the moments after your accident to protect your rights. The steps you take can make a difference in the long run - it could mean the difference between fair compensation and years of financial hardship. Without question, your actions after an accident may not only affect your quality of life, but also your right to compensation.
Texas personal injury attorney John R. Solis recommends taking the following steps after an accident in Laredo:
- Call 911 first, if you are able to do so.
- Gather information. Take notes. Make sure your (or someone else) writes down details about your accident: exact location, time of day, weather conditions, etc. The more details you record, the better off you will be down the road if you are pursuing a personal injury lawsuit.
- Look for any witnesses and obtain their contact information.
- Use your camera or your cell phone to take photos of the accident location.
- Don't discuss the accident with the other people involved in the accident or witnesses, and don't accept any responsibility.
- Visit your doctor as soon as possible.
- If you are injured, keep appointments with your doctor and keep him or her informed about your pain and other effects of the injury.
- Never give a recorded statement to the at-fault party's insurance company.
- If you are contacted by the other party's insurance company, decline to comment. You can refer their questions to your attorney.
- Talk to personal injury lawyer John R. Solis as soon as possible to protect your legal rights.
Avoid common mistakes that can hurt your claim
Certain actions can seriously hurt your claim and limit your ability to recover compensation later. Here’s what not to do after a crash or injury:
- Don’t post photos, comments, or updates about your accident or injuries on social media. Insurance companies often monitor these posts.
- Don’t delay seeking medical treatment, even if your injuries seem minor. Waiting too long can make it harder to link your injuries to the accident.
- Don’t sign documents or accept a settlement offer without speaking to an attorney first.
- Don’t admit fault or apologize to others involved in the accident. Even a simple “I’m sorry” could be used against you.
- Don’t ignore follow-up care or skip medical appointments. Gaps in treatment can weaken your case.
Types of evidence that help you build a strong case
Evidence is critical in proving fault and showing the extent of your damages. The more documentation you have, the stronger your case will be. Make sure to keep or collect the following:
- Photos and videos of the accident scene, vehicle damage, or hazardous conditions.
- Names and contact information for witnesses who saw the accident happen.
- Police or incident reports that describe the circumstances of your injury.
- Medical records, test results, and receipts for any treatment or medication.
- Pay stubs or employment records showing lost income from missed work.
- Correspondence with insurance companies, including emails or letters.
- A personal journal describing your pain levels, physical limitations, and emotional struggles during recovery.
How a lawyer can help
Working with an experienced personal injury lawyer can make all the difference in your recovery. A skilled attorney knows how to protect your rights and fight for the full value of your claim. At John R. Solis, Attorney at Law, our legal team can:
- Investigate the accident scene and gather crucial evidence before it disappears.
- Interview witnesses and obtain official reports to support your claim.
- Handle all communication and negotiation with insurance companies.
- Calculate the full value of your damages, including future medical costs and lost earning capacity.
- Prepare and file all necessary legal documents before important deadlines.
- Take your case to trial if the insurance company refuses to offer fair compensation.
We're ready to help you. Contact us today.
If you have suffered physical injuries or a loved one was injured or died in an accident, we urge you to call John R. Solis, Attorney at Law immediately for a free consultation. We are ready to listen to your story and discuss your options. We can guide you step-by-step through this difficult process. We will fight for you until it's over. Contact us today at 866-465-9093 to schedule a free case consultation with a Laredo personal injury lawyer you can trust. Our firm serves the legal needs of English and Spanish speaking clients in Laredo and throughout Texas.
