What should I do after an Austin car accident?

 

A: A Travis county car crash can happen to anyone when least expected. If you have been in an Austin car accident, you may be wondering what you should do. While there are many answers to this question, there are several important things to remember. Here are a few of them:

• Call the police as soon as it is safe to do so. Calling the police can be important—even in minor incidents. The police can help clear the scene of the accident and determine fault.
• Stay on the scene until a police officer lets you know that it is okay to leave. If you do not do this, someone could claim that you committed a hit and run.
• Remember to not admit fault. It is a common experience of those involved in an accident to apologize to other drivers. While you may feel sorry—even if it is not your fault—do not apologize or admit fault. Instead, just ask if everyone is okay. If you are speaking with a law enforcement officer, just provide the facts.
• File a police report to use later. Having the police report can help prove your case.
• Refrain from signing anything or providing a recorded statement. You have the opportunity to speak with a lawyer before signing a legally binding document.
• Schedule a free consultation with qualified Austin car accident attorney, Earl Straight. He can be reached by calling Straight Law at 512.454.1331.
• Order a copy of Mr. Straight’s informative and free book, Texas Accident Law and You: 8 Common Mistakes and How to Avoid Making Them.

Earl K. Straight serves victims of Texas car and truck accidents in Austin, Round Rock, Bastrop, Cedar Park, Buda, Kyle, Taylor, and elsewhere in Travis County, Williamson County, Hays County, Lee County, and Burnet County, including accidents on I-35, Highway 1 (Mopac Expressway), Highway 183, and other Texas roadways.