How to Protect Your Rights After a Car Accident
A car accident can turn your life upside down in seconds. You may be in pain, confused, and unsure about what to do next. In Texas, especially in busy cities like Houston, accidents happen often. Knowing what steps to take after a crash can help protect your rights and improve your chance of getting fair compensation. Here’s what you need to know.
Call 911 and Get a Police Report
The first thing you should do is make sure you and others are safe. Then, call 911 right away. Even if the accident seems small, having an official report from the police is very important. It becomes part of your legal record and supports your version of what happened. In Texas, you must report accidents with injuries, death, or major vehicle damage.
Collect Information and Keep Records
If you’re able, take photos of the accident scene. This includes damage to the cars, your injuries, the road, and anything else that looks important. Talk to witnesses and get their contact info. Also, write down what you remember while it’s still fresh.
Keep all your medical records, bills, and receipts. Save everything related to the crash—even things like tow truck invoices or time missed from work. These details are key when your car accident lawyer builds your claim.
Don’t Admit Fault or Post Online
After the accident, avoid saying things like “I’m sorry,” even if you feel bad. It could be taken as admitting fault. Just stick to the facts when talking to police or others involved.
Also, don’t post about the accident on social media. Insurance companies may search your accounts and use your posts against you. A simple photo or comment can hurt your case.
Understand Your Legal Rights in Texas
Texas follows a rule called modified comparative fault. That means you can still get money for your injuries even if you were partly at fault—as long as you are less than 51% responsible. But your payment may be reduced by your percentage of fault.
There’s also a two-year time limit to file a personal injury claim in Texas. This is called the statute of limitations. If you wait too long, you may lose your right to seek compensation.
Work with a Personal Injury Lawyer
Dealing with insurance companies on your own is risky. They may offer you less than you deserve or try to deny your claim completely. That’s why it’s smart to talk to an experienced personal injury lawyer as soon as possible.
At McCray Law Firm, we guide people through the legal process after a crash. We help you understand your rights, gather strong evidence, and fight for the maximum compensation you’re owed. Whether it’s medical expenses, lost wages, or pain and suffering, our team works to get what you need to recover.
Act Quickly to Protect Yourself
Time matters in these cases. The sooner you get legal help, the better your chance of success. The longer you wait, the harder it is to collect proof and build a strong case.
If you’ve been hurt in a car accident in Houston or anywhere in Texas, contact McCray Law Firm today. We offer free consultations and will walk you through your options with no pressure. You don’t pay unless we win your case.
FAQs: Protecting Your Rights After a Car Accident
- What should I do if the other driver doesn’t have insurance?
You may still be covered through your own uninsured/underinsured motorist (UM/UIM) policy. A personal injury lawyer can help you file a claim and explore other options for recovery. - Can I still get compensation if I wasn’t wearing a seatbelt?
Yes, but it could reduce your compensation under Texas’s comparative fault law. Not wearing a seatbelt doesn’t block your claim, but it may affect how much you can receive. - How soon should I seek medical attention after an accident?
Immediately. Even if you feel okay, injuries can show up later. A medical visit creates a record, which is important for your case. - What if the insurance company contacts me directly?
Don’t agree to give a recorded statement or accept a settlement without talking to an attorney. Insurance companies may offer less than what your claim is worth. - Do I need a lawyer if the accident was minor?
Even in smaller cases, an attorney can help protect your rights and handle tricky negotiations. You might discover hidden injuries or property damage that weren’t obvious at first.