Who to Talk to After a Car Wreck or Truck Accident

No one ever sees a collision coming. Once it happens, emotions run high and people can feel scared, frantic and confused. We have an app that will help you figure out what to do in case of an accident, but it is also beneficial to get a sense of who you will need to talk to after your collision, in the following order.

Your passengers and the other driver

Check in with everyone involved in the crash to find out if they are okay. No matter what, call 911 to get an ambulance on the scene and to get police officers dispatched. Make sure all your bases are covered at the scene. Snap some pictures of the damage and scene while you wait.

The police

Call the cops. Once they arrive, explain everything that happened clearly and honestly, but stick to the facts of the situation. Avoid saying anything that sounds like you are responsible for the crash. The police will write up a report and it will serve as evidence in case a ticket is issued or in case a lawsuit is filed.

A medical professional

Since you’ve already called 911, an ambulance is on its way. Get checked out, even if you feel fine, and make sure your passengers see the EMT as well. Shock sets in and dulls your pain sensors, and you might notice hours after the accident that you are hurt, even mildly. If injuries are more severe, an EMT will be able to catalog the injuries caused by the auto accident. This allows you and your doctor to track the results of these injuries throughout your recovery.

A personal injury attorney

An auto accident attorney is an important ally in the aftermath of a crash. Your lawyer is on your side and helps you deal with the insurance companies by keeping your best interests front and center. Your San Antonio auto accident lawyer will also preserve any evidence as soon as it is gathered to ensure you have all the information you may need to bring a lawsuit, if you decide to do so. If you have been involved in an accident with a commercial vehicle, 18-wheeler, bus, or other non-passenger car, you will need the advocacy of your own attorney later in the process.

Your insurance company

After your accident, you will be expected to give a statement to your car insurance company, which will most likely be recorded. Your lawyer can help you make sure you explain all the details clearly and completely, or your lawyer may take on the responsibility of providing a statement to the insurance company on your behalf. But if you choose to speak to the insurance company directly, make sure to give only the facts and do not cop to any possible negligence for the crash.

Really, a personal injury attorney

If you haven't already called a San Antonio auto accident lawyer, now is the time. Your initial consultation is free, so you lose nothing in calling, and you definitely want representation before you talk to the next party.

The other driver’s insurance company

Consider this phone call, which will be recorded, a fault-finding mission. The insurer will probe you to find out what happened and any mitigating factors that can lessen their payout as much as possible. You are not legally required to provide a statement, but you can expect to be pressured into it. They usually act quickly, too, and you may not have all the information about your medical condition by the time the insurer contacts you, which stands to paint an inaccurate picture of your circumstances. Do not put anything in writing for them and do not sign anything they send you without a San Antonio car accident lawyer’s advice. Do not expect them to play fairly.

If you have been involved in a trucking accident, you may also hear from truck accident attorneys retained by the trucking company. You should absolutely retain your own lawyer in these cases and not say a word to the motor carrier’s insurance company or attorneys — always direct them to your attorney.

Contact San Antonio auto accident lawyers ASAP

The Báez Law Firm stands ready to represent those involved in car accidents throughout Bexar County. Bringing our attorneys in as soon as possible after the collision puts you in the best position to protect your rights and any damages you are entitled to in order to replace your damaged property, pay for your medical expenses, and address any lost wages and other losses that result from the car wreck. Call our San Antonio car accident attorneys at 210-979-9777 or contact us online for a free consultation.