The moments following a car accident in Texas can be chaotic and overwhelming. While you focus on recovery, insurance companies are working behind the scenes to protect their bottom lines and minimize their financial responsibility. It is easy to say or do something that can jeopardize your ability to recover fair compensation after the collision, which is why you should handle these interactions with extra care. It’s important to contact a personal injury lawyer in McAllen for legal guidance and support.
Gather as Much Evidence as Possible
Having solid evidence makes it harder for insurance companies to deny your claim or offer less than you deserve. After your accident, make sure to collect and preserve critical pieces of evidence. For example:
- Take photos and videos of all vehicle damage and the accident scene.
- Go to the hospital, even if you do not feel hurt, so that your injuries are documented.
- Get contact information from witnesses who saw what happened.
- Request a copy of the police report as soon as it’s available.
- Keep all medical records and receipts for expenses related to your injuries.
- Track how much work you’ve missed and any activities you can no longer do because of your injuries.
- Keep a journal detailing your pain levels and how the accident is affecting your daily life and relationships.
Do Not Speak with the Insurer without an Attorney Present
It is common for insurance adjusters to reach out to car accident victims soon after the collision. When an adjuster calls, they might sound friendly, but remember—they are working in the company’s best interests, not yours. What you say during these conversations can seriously affect your claim. Even mentioning you feel “okay” could be used to suggest your injuries aren’t serious.
You should not speak to an adjuster before talking to a McAllen accident attorney. Having a lawyer handle these communications protects you from saying something that might hurt your case. Your attorney knows what information to share and what questions don’t require answers.
Never Give a Recorded Statement to the Insurance Company
After a car accident, you are under no obligation to provide a recorded statement to the company. However, many companies push for these statements anyway. The adjuster may say that this will help the company process your claim faster, but these recordings are primarily used to find inconsistencies in your story. If you are asked for one, politely decline and refer the adjuster to your attorney. This simple step can prevent serious problems with your claim later on.
Do Not Accept the First Settlement Offer
Most first settlement offers are much lower than what you actually need to recover from the car accident. Once you accept a settlement, you typically can’t ask for more money later—even if your condition worsens. Take time to understand the full extent of your injuries and expenses before considering any offer. Your attorney can help determine if an offer truly covers all your current and future needs.
Trust a Texas Car Accident Attorney to Protect Your Rights
When you are dealing with insurance companies after a Texas car accident, you need an advocate on your side who understands these tactics. A car accident lawyer can serve as your greatest ally throughout this complex process. From evaluating settlement offers to handling negotiations, your attorney will work to protect your best interests and recover the compensation you deserve. Schedule a free legal consultation today to learn more about your next steps and begin your journey to recovery.
