Holiday travel means a lot more cars on the road. This also means your exposure to a lot more traffic risk. If you are in an accident, what should you do during this peak travel season? Knowing how to handle the next steps, and the right attorney to call, can make all the difference. Whether your accident is the result of a drunk driver, distracted driving, or other cause, you deserve to seek compensation from the negligent party.
At Griffin Law Group, LLC, our skilled Texas personal injury lawyer has what it takes to fight for you. Bret Griffin fights for your rights every step of the way. Get in touch to learn about how he can help you.
Why Holiday Car Accidents Are More Common in Houston
Houston is a very busy area. Seems obvious to say, doesn’t it? There are tens of thousands of motor vehicles on the roadways at any given time. This means that the risk of accidents is always high, but the holidays increases the traffic significantly. During the holidays, accidents are more common because of:
- Distracted driving
- Drunk and drugged driving
- Fatigue from long car rides
- Stress
- Rushing to buy gifts and do errands
- Increased traffic
Steps You Should Take After a Car Crash in Houston
If you are hurt in a car accident during the holidays, it’s important to follow a few steps to protect yourself and your legal rights:
- See If Anyone is Injured: If anyone is hurt, call 911. Even seemingly small injuries should get medical attention.
- Move Over: If you can move your vehicle out of traffic safely, do so. This can prevent future injuries.
- Call the Police: Get law enforcement involved, both for your safety and for the insurance report.
- Exchange Documents and Information: Get the names of the other driver, any witnesses, and their contact information.
- Take Pictures and Videos: Video and photograph the damage to your car and your injuries, if you can do so safely.
- Get Medical Attention: No matter your level of injury at first, get a thorough medical examination. Some injuries get worse over time, but in any case you document the injuries you suffered.
Common Injuries in Houston Holiday Car Accidents
A car crash during the holidays could cause injuries such as:
- Whiplash
- Neck strain
- Broken bones
- Traumatic brain injuries (TBIs)
- Spinal cord injuries
- Paralysis
- Lacerations
- Bruising
- Soft tissue injuries
- Loss of limb
- Death
Prompt medical care not only protects your health but also creates documentation that supports your claim for compensation.
How You Can Deal with Insurance Companies
Insurance companies are looking to save money. Even your own company may not have your best interests at heart. Luckily, an attorney helps ensure your rights are protected from insurers. Some tips to help include:
- Don’t admit fault for the accident, even partially
- Don’t accept low offers from the insurance company
- Don’t believe the insurer when they say you don’t have a case
- Talk with a Houston car accident attorney right away
Legal Options After a Holiday Crash in Houston
You could be owed significant financial compensation after a holiday travel accident. These might include:
- Medical expenses
- Rehabilitation costs
- Lost income and reduced earning capacity
- Pain and suffering
- Property damage
- Emotional distress
Some drivers may be owed punitive damages as well. These are more common in cases with drunk driving, or where the other party was highly reckless.
Get Help After a Texas Car Crash: Speak to a Skilled Personal Injury Attorney in Houston
A car crash can cause immense damages to you, your vehicle, and your passengers. You deserve compensation when another person was at fault for the accident. Pick the right attorney who will fight for you and has helped countless accident victims during his career.
Consult a Texas personal injury lawyer at Griffin Law Group, LLC for help. Contact us today for a consultation of your case.