Many people think that common sense dictates what is to be done after an auto accident. Maybe so, but our common sense can desert us under stress. It is a good idea to keep this simple checklist in your car with your other important papers (registration, etc.).

1. Get help for anyone injured.
2. Call the police if someone is injured or killed, if a vehicle can't be moved, or if the accident involved a hit-and-run driver.
3. Move your car, if possible, to avoid blocking traffic and to protect it from further loss or damage. But be careful--many people are injured at accident scenes each year by other drivers who are not paying attention.
4. Get the other driver's name, address, telephone number, license plate number, driver's license number, and insurance information. Give the other driver the same information.
5. Record the insurance company name and the policy number exactly as they appear on the other driver's proof-of-insurance card.
6. Don't sign anything except a ticket, citation, or report issued by the police.
7. Notify your insurance company promptly. It will want the names and addresses of witnesses and injured persons. Never sign any document that gives up a legal right.
8. Contact us to find out about your right to recover for your injuries.

Remember, insurance companies are not in the business of paying claims, no matter what their advertising says. They are in the business of collecting premiums. Insurance adjustors definitely do not have your best interests in mind. Be careful.

Texas law gives you two years to settle or file an accident claim from the date of the accident. Call us to learn all of your legal rights. We will advise you and, if appropriate, we will deal with the insurance company or other parties on your behalf.

HERE'S WHAT OUR FIRM CAN DO FOR YOU

1. Evaluate any bodily injury claim to determine the amount of money to which you are entitled.
2. Help you with the property damage portion of your claim.
3. Resolve complex issues and negotiate an overall settlement.
4. Deal with your doctors, obtain your medical records, reports, and billing statements, and notify medical care providers as to who to bill.
5. Have an investigator interview witnesses, take statements, and photograph the accident scene and your vehicle.
6. File a lawsuit, if necessary.

Remember, if you need a personal injury lawyer or a wrongful death lawyer, the lawyers at Dallas law firm Street and Ragsdale are here for you. Contact our lawyers if you'd like a free no-obligation consultation about your case.

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