Have you been injured in a car accident in Friendswood, Texas? The Law Firm of Alton C. Todd Personal Injury Lawyers can help when you call (281) 992-8633. We offer a free consultation with a Friendswood car accident lawyer so you can understand your options and begin moving forward after a difficult crash.
Car accidents are overwhelming, leaving victims to deal with pain, vehicle damage, and questions about compensation. While it is possible to pursue money from a car accident without a lawyer, doing so requires patience, careful documentation, and knowledge of the process.
This guide will explain the steps you can take in Texas to protect your rights and recover the compensation you need.
How the Law Firm of Alton C. Todd Personal Injury Lawyers Can Help if You’ve Been Injured in a Car Accident
While not every crash requires legal representation, having an experienced team on your side can make a significant difference in the outcome of your case. At The Law Firm of Alton C. Todd Personal Injury Lawyers, we have built a reputation for strong advocacy and proven results.
Here are some of the ways we stand out:
- Our attorneys bring 58 years of combined experience handling complex accident cases.
- We have secured more than $500 million in settlements and verdicts for injured clients.
- Our team includes a Double Board Certified attorney recognized by the Texas Board of Legal Specialization.
- We are proud members of the Million Dollar Advocates Forum and the Multi-Million Dollar Advocates Forum, honoring attorneys who achieve top results.
If you’ve been hurt in a collision, having a Friendswood personal injury attorney who knows how to win can give you peace of mind. Contact our offices in Friendswood, Texas, today to schedule your free consultation and learn how we can help you pursue the compensation you deserve.
Make Sure Everyone Is Safe and Call the Police
Right after the crash, the most important thing is to make sure everyone is okay. If someone is hurt, call 911. Even if the crash seems small, you should still call the police to report it. In Texas, you’re required to report a car accident if there is an injury, death, or more than $1,000 in property damage.
When the police arrive, they’ll write an official report. This report is important because it will describe what happened, who was involved, and who may be at fault. Make sure you get a copy of the report number. Without a police report, it can be much harder to prove what really happened.
Gather Evidence at the Scene
If you’re able to, try to collect as much information as possible while you’re still at the crash site. This can help you later when you’re filing your claim. Use your phone to take pictures of the damage, license plates, and the surrounding area. Also, take photos of any injuries you have.
Get the other driver’s name, insurance details, phone number, and license plate number. If there are any witnesses nearby, ask for their names and contact information. They may be able to back up your side of the story. The more evidence you have, the stronger your claim will be later.
Get Medical Attention Right Away
Even if you don’t think you’re hurt, it’s important to see a doctor after a car accident. Some injuries, like whiplash or concussions, may not show up right away. A doctor can examine you and document your injuries.
Keep all records of doctor visits, prescriptions, and any time you had to miss work because of your injuries. These records can help you prove how the accident affected your health and your life. Without medical proof, the insurance company may argue that you weren’t really hurt.
File a Claim With the Insurance Company
Once you’re safe and have seen a doctor, you should file a claim with the other driver’s insurance company. In Texas, the person who caused the crash is responsible for paying damages through their insurance. This is called an “at-fault” insurance system. Call or go online to the insurance company and start a new claim.
They may ask you to give a statement about what happened. Be careful. Only give the facts—don’t admit fault, and don’t guess. Stick to what you know happened. The insurance company will assign an adjuster to your claim. That person will review the damage, look at the police report, and may contact you with questions.
It’s okay to answer basic questions, but don’t feel pressured to settle quickly.
Prove Your Damages
To get money after a car accident, you must show that you suffered damages. These may include:
- Vehicle damage
- Medical bills
- Lost wages
- Pain and suffering (in some cases)
Keep copies of all receipts, bills, and other costs. If your car was towed or you had to rent a car, include those expenses too. Add up everything related to the crash to get an idea of how much your claim is worth. Sometimes, insurance companies offer less than what you really deserve; that’s why you need to be ready with solid proof.
Negotiate a Settlement
Once the insurance company finishes reviewing your claim, it may make you a settlement offer. This is the amount they’re willing to pay to end the case. You don’t have to accept the first offer. If the offer is too low, you can make a counteroffer. Explain why you think your claim is worth more, and include any new evidence like medical records or repair estimates.
This back-and-forth is called negotiation. It can take time, but it’s a normal part of the claims process. Stay calm and be firm. Insurance companies may try to save money by paying less, so it’s your job to fight for what you deserve.
Know When To Settle
Eventually, you may reach a fair agreement with the insurance company. Before you accept it, make sure it covers all your expenses—past and future. Once you sign the settlement papers, you usually can’t ask for more money later.
If you’re still getting medical treatment or your doctor says you might need care in the future, be careful. Settling too soon could leave you stuck with bills. Only settle when you feel confident the offer is enough to cover everything.
Legal Help Can Be a Valuable Asset
Getting money from a car accident without a lawyer in Friendswood, Texas, is possible, but it takes work. You must be organized, honest, and willing to stand up for yourself. Always gather solid evidence, track your expenses, and don’t be afraid to negotiate with the insurance company. If the process becomes too overwhelming or the injuries are serious, don’t hesitate to ask for help.
In many cases, guidance from a Friendswood car accident lawyer can make a meaningful difference in your recovery. Whether you are dealing with medical bills, lost wages, or long-term effects of the crash, the right advocate can protect your rights and improve your chances of a fair outcome. Contact The Law Firm of Alton C. Todd Personal Injury Lawyers today to schedule a free consultation.
