You have probably heard that you should call the police after a car accident, but is that really necessary? When do the cops actually need to visit an accident scene? There are specific times when you are required to call the cops, and if you plan to sue for damages after a crash you’ll be glad that you had them come out to make a report. A Corpus Christi, Texas car accident lawyer from our firm can tell you more.
When Should I Call the Police After a Car Accident?
In Texas, you are legally required to call the police after a car accident that results in:
- Injury of a driver, passenger, or anyone else
- A death
- Property damage totaling more than $1,000
However, it can be a good idea to call the police even when it does not seem like your accident meets these criteria. You could end up needing to make an insurance claim later and you will be glad that you have the report. Calling the cops to the scene can also be a good idea because:
- You could notice an injury later
- Your repairs could cost more than expected
- The other driver might try to give you false information
What Else Should I Do After a Car Accident?
You should also take other steps to protect yourself and start building a potential injury case in the immediate aftermath of a crash. After a car accident, you should: ‘
- Move the cars somewhere safe
- Exchange info with the other driver
- Talk to any witnesses
- Take photos of the accident scene, your injuries, and any vehicle damage
Can I Get a Copy of the Police Report After a Car Accident?
When you call the cops to the scene, they fill out a report that contains some useful information about your accident. The cops will rarely say that someone is clearly to blame for the crash, but they can note important information like how quickly the cars were traveling, where the crash occurred, and how the cars collided.
This can all be useful if you make an insurance claim. The cops should tell you how to request a copy of the report for yourself.
Do I Need a Lawyer to Pursue Compensation?
If you do decide to pursue compensation, a lawyer from our firm can help. In a case like this, you have to prove negligence and then show how that negligence resulted in your injuries. This can be tough to do! An experienced personal injury lawyer can help you build a compelling case and handle communications and negotiations on your behalf.
Schedule a Free Case Consultation
If you were hurt in an accident and you believe that someone else was to blame for those injuries, then you may want to sue for damages. Contact Sahadi Legal Group to schedule a free case consultation and learn more about your legal options.
