Accidents can be disorienting, especially when you are the pedestrian involved. Being aware of the actions to take post-accident is crucial for your health and any legal actions you may need to pursue.
Seek Medical Attention Immediately
Primarily and most critically, it is imperative to secure immediate medical care, irrespective of the seeming insignificance of your injuries. Postponing medical attention can exacerbate your health condition and add complexities to your personal injury claim. A comprehensive account of your injuries, as documented by a healthcare professional, is crucial evidence bolstering your position should you advance with a claim.
You may feel tempted to brush off minor discomfort or pain, attributing it to shock or adrenaline. However, this can be a detrimental mistake. Certain injuries, such as internal bleeding or concussions, may not manifest noticeable symptoms immediately but can have serious, even fatal, consequences if left untreated. Delaying medical treatment can also give insurance companies an opportunity to argue that your injuries were not a result of the accident, complicating your personal injury claim.
Remember, every piece of documentation counts in a personal injury case. Medical reports detailing your injuries provide concrete evidence of the impact of the accident on your health. These documents can significantly strengthen your claim, helping you obtain the compensation you rightly deserve for your ordeal.
Report the Incident
After ensuring your health is not in immediate danger, report the accident to the police. They will document the incident, gather statements from witnesses, and establish an official record of the accident. This police report will be integral to your case as it can corroborate your account of events.
Document the Scene
If you can, use your phone to take pictures or videos of the accident scene, your injuries, and any damage to the vehicle involved. Capture wide-angle shots to show the overall scene and close-ups to detail specific elements. If there were witnesses, ask for their contact information. Their accounts can provide additional perspectives that strengthen your claim.
Consult a Personal Injury Attorney
Navigating through the legal complexities post-accident can be daunting. This is where The Law Offices of Omar Khawaja’s extensive experience comes into play. Ourteam of dedicated personal injury attorneys is committed to aggressively representing your interests. We'll guide you through the intricacies of Texas law regarding pedestrian accidents, ensuring you're informed every step of the way.
Texas operates under a “modified comparative fault” rule. This means that if you're found to be partially at fault for the accident, your compensation will be reduced by the percentage of your fault. For example, if you're awarded $100,000 in damages but were 20% at fault, your compensation would be reduced to $80,000.
This is one of the many ways Texas law can impact your claim. Consult a knowledgeable personal injury attorney to understand your rights and potential compensation fully.
Follow Through With Medical Treatment
Consistent follow-up with your medical treatment is crucial. Skipping appointments or not complying with your doctor's instructions can negatively impact your claim. Insurance companies may argue that your injuries are not as severe as claimed or unrelated to the accident. Adhering to your treatment plan demonstrates the seriousness of your injuries and commitment to recovery.
Be Cautious of Early Settlement Offers
Insurance companies often offer early settlements to close claims quickly and cost-effectively. However, these initial offers rarely cover all the costs incurred from the accident. Before accepting any offer, have it thoroughly reviewed by your attorney. At The Law Offices of Omar Khawaja, we will ensure that the settlement adequately compensates for your medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering.
File a Claim
Finally, file your personal injury claim. In Texas, the statute of limitations for personal injury cases is two years from the accident date. However, it's advisable to start the process as soon as possible. Gathering evidence, negotiating with insurance companies, and preparing your case takes time.
The Law Offices of Omar Khawaja Is Here For You
When involved in a pedestrian accident, you need a legal team that understands the stakes and fights for your rights. The Law Offices of Omar Khawaja’s aggressive representation, years of experience, and customer service focus set us apart. We stand ready to assist you in navigating the aftermath of a pedestrian accident and pursuing the compensation you deserve.
Remember - you don't have to go through this alone. Reach outto us today to schedule a consultation.