Auto accidents can turn your life upside down in a matter of seconds. Whether you’re dealing with painful injuries, mounting medical bills, or lost income, knowing how to file a personal injury claim is key to getting the compensation you deserve. Lastimado Texas will walk you through each step of the personal injury claim process after a car crash so you can take action confidently and protect your rights.
Step 1: Prioritize Your Health & Safety
Your health always comes first. After a crash you should:
• Call 911 if there are injuries.
• Get medical attention immediately, even if you feel okay. Some injuries like whiplash or internal bleeding show symptoms later.
• Follow all treatment recommendations and keep records of your doctor visits, diagnoses, and medications.
These records are vital to building your personal injury claim and proving the extent of your injuries.
Step 2: Document the Accident Scene
If you’re able to do so safely, gather as much evidence as possible.
• Take photos of the vehicles, your injuries, road conditions, traffic signs, and any damage.
• Collect witness contact information and statements.
• Exchange insurance and contact information with the other driver(s).
• Ask for a copy of the police report once it’s filed.
The more evidence you have, the stronger your claim will be when it’s time to negotiate with insurance companies or go to court.
Step 3: Notify Your Insurance Company
Let your insurer know you’ve been in an accident as soon as possible. Provide the facts of the case but don’t admit fault or give a recorded statement without speaking to a lawyer first. Your policy may require prompt reporting to preserve your rights to certain coverages, including uninsured/underinsured motorist protection.
Step 4: Consult a Personal Injury Attorney
Auto accident claims can get complicated fast especially when dealing with serious injuries, unclear fault, multiple parties and insurance companies that offer low settlements. A personal injury lawyer can:
• Evaluate your case
• Handle insurance negotiations
• Gather medical and legal evidence
• Calculate fair compensation
• File a lawsuit if necessary
Most personal injury attorneys work on a contingency fee basis, which means you don’t pay unless they win your case.
Step 5: File the Personal Injury Claim
Your lawyer will help you file a claim with the at-fault party’s insurance company. This includes submitting:
• Medical records and bills
• Proof of lost wages
• Documentation of pain and suffering
• Photos and eyewitness statements
• Police reports and other relevant evidence
This starts the negotiation process with the insurance company.
Step 6: Negotiate a Settlement
Insurance companies often lowball the first offer. Don’t accept a quick settlement without reviewing it carefully. A good attorney will:
• Negotiate aggressively on your behalf.
• Push for a settlement that reflects the full extent of your damages.
• Prepare to take the case to trial, if negotiations fail.
Most cases settle out of court but being prepared to go to trial shows insurers you are serious.
Personal Injury Attorneys in Mansfield, TX (Just Minutes from Midlothian, Euless, Bedford, Irving, Hurst, Burleson, Kennedale, Grand Prairie, Duncanville, Waxahachie, Red Oak & Arlington, Texas)
Each state has a statute of limitations for filing a personal injury claim, often 1 to 3 years from the date of the accident. If you miss this window, you could lose your right to recover damages. Speak to an attorney as soon as possible to protect your claim and avoid missing any important deadlines.
Filing a personal injury claim after an auto accident doesn’t have to be overwhelming. With the right steps and the right legal help, you can get the compensation you need to recover and move forward. Contact Lastimado Texas for your consultation today.
