Car accidents can be a stressful experience, but it’s important to remain calm. To ensure you get all the help you are entitled to, you must make smart decisions. Having a checklist prepared for these questionable moments will help you protect yourself and your property. But what exactly are the best steps to take?
At Hernandez Law Group, P.C, our attorneys have helped thousands of clients get the compensation they deserve. We take pride in helping the community understand how they should navigate these stressful situations and assist them in any way we can. That’s why we’ve created a step-by-step guide to show you exactly what you should do after a car accident in Amarillo, Texas.
Stay at the Scene, Amarillo Hit-and-Run Laws on I-40 & Loop 335
After you have gathered your bearings, try to move somewhere off the road if possible. It’s important to stay at the scene, and you both will be safer outside the line of traffic. Texas has a multitude of uninsured drivers, resulting in a staggering number of hit-and-run incidents. It’s important not to panic and to allow the authorities to handle locating anyone fleeing the scene. Texas Law requires that all drivers involved in an accident stay at the scene until information has been exchanged and any necessary medical assistance has been provided.
The penalties for a hit-and-run range in severity from misdemeanor to felony charges. If you perform a hit-and-run, you could be punished with 2 to 20 years in prison and up to a $10,000 fine. On top of dealing with a criminal record, you also risk suspension or loss of your driver’s license and hefty insurance premiums.
Check for Injuries, When to Call 911 on Amarillo Roads
Once you’ve gotten somewhere safe its important to check yourself for injuries. Start with things that are easy to notice, such as bleeding, headaches, or obvious pains. But don’t rule out “quieter” or lingering symptoms. Many people report having pain and other symptoms days or even weeks after an accident. It’s important you slow down and take the time to fully assess yourself and make note of any symptom, no matter how minor it may seem.
If you notice something, you should call for medical assistance. If you can’t call 911 yourself, try to get help from the other driver involved or a third party. Car accidents can cause devastating damage to the body and should be taken seriously, even in minor accidents. A thorough medical assessment is beneficial for all parties involved with the crash. Seeking medical attention makes you look more credible in any future insurance or personal injury claims. Texas law also requires you to call the police anytime there is an injury, fatality, stalled vehicles, or damage exceeding $1000. So any injury is ground for a report.
Call APD & File CR-2, Amarillo 10-Day Deadline at 4505 E Amarillo Blvd
Any accident resulting in an injury, fatality, stalled vehicles, or damage exceeding $1000. Must be reported to the police. In accidents that don’t meet this criterion, you can personally file a CR-2. However, since Sept. 1, 2017, per the 85th Texas Legislature Senate Bill 312, the Driver’s Crash Report (Form CR-2) is no longer retained by TxDOT.
You have a total of ten days to file a CR-3 report with your local authorities or risk misdemeanor charges and possible suspension of your driver’s license. You can find official Peace Officer reports (CR-3) through online submission portals. Just make sure you archive a copy for yourself. Filing a CR-3 is important because it legitimizes any claims you might have. Waiting around can make it harder to appear serious to insurance providers and future legal proceedings.
Exchange Insurance & Take Photos, Evidence That Wins Amarillo Cases
While you’re waiting for the authorities to arrive, take the time to gather any useful evidence you can. This includes exchange insurance, taking photos, and working with any potential witnesses. It’s important that you spend this time period gathering information and not discussing who’s at fault. This rule of thumb applies to any law enforcement or insurance providers as well. Anything you say can and will be used against you in future claims or proceedings. Keep comments brief and to the point.
If you find yourself in a situation you don’t quite understand, consider seeking out a professional attorney. Professional personal injury attorneys have years of experience dealing with greedy insurance providers and navigating injury cases. They handle your insurance claims, ensure you get all the compensation you deserve, and can represent you in any future personal injury claims if necessary. Car accidents are tricky situations, so don’t face them on your own. If you have any questions about the validity of your case or how Hernandez Law Group, P.C can help you maximize your earnings, contact our team today.
See a Doctor Fast, Hidden Injuries After Amarillo Car Accidents
It can not be overstated how important it is to seek medical attention after a crash. Many injuries can be internal, making them difficult to identify without proper experience or equipment. Internal injuries typically have symptoms that get more severe over time and must be found as early as possible. Seeking immediate care can prevent chronic pain or long-term disabilities from developing as a result of any untreated injuries.
Some of the most common injuries caused by car accidents include:
- Concussions
- Soft-tissue damage
- Fractures
- Whiplash
The most common symptoms of these conditions include headache, nausea, persistent pain, mobility issues, or memory loss. If you notice any of these symptoms, you should immediately seek medical attention. Procrastinating not only puts your health at risk but can also make it harder to get compensated for your injuries. Early assessments help your injuries seem genuine, making your case more believable in any future claims.
Call Hernandez Law Group, P.C. Before You Talk to Insurance in Amarillo
People across Dallas, Abilene, and Amarillo, Texas, continue to turn to Hernandez Law Group for personal injury claim lawsuits because they know they can trust us. For over two decades, our team has maintained a 98% success rate, securing millions for our Dallas clients. Juan Hernandez is among only 2% of Texas attorneys board-certified in Personal Injury Trial Law by the Board of Legal Specialization. Our attorneys have the knowledge and experience to guarantee that your right to compensation is always protected.
Our team ensures your voice is heard. We offer a completely free consultation 24/7 so that we can be available for our community whenever they need us. Our emphasis on customer satisfaction doesn’t just stop there. At Hernandez Law Group, we stand by our “No Win, No Fee” policy, meaning our clients won’t pay any fees unless we win the case. All our services are available in both English and Spanish, catering to your case from start to finish. Contact us today to see if we’re the best fit for your case.
FAQs:
Texas law requires you to file a CR-3 report no more than 10 days after a car accident.
If an accident doesn’t result in an injury, fatality, stalled vehicles, or damage exceeding $1000, you don’t have to report it to the authorities. However, you might want to make personal documentation.
If you’ve been hurt in a recent crash, you should go to the nearest emergency room or urgent care facility immediately
Admitting fault at the scene of a car accident does not automatically mean you are legally responsible for the accident. But it could be used to limit your possible compensation.
At Hernandez Law Group, P.C., we follow a no-win, no-fee agreement. Meaning, we agree to represent our client in a personal injury case without requiring an upfront fee. Contact us for a free non-obligation quote and see if we’re a good fit for your case.
