Sean O’Rourke | August 22, 2024
When a Houston car accident occurs, it’s natural to be shaken up. When you’re just going about your day, suddenly being thrown about in an unexpected collision is shocking.
You may be in shock, and at the very least, your adrenaline is pumping, your heart rate is up, and your situation may feel surreal. These sorts of reactions can happen whether you’re in a minor fender bender where no one is hurt or a pedestrian accident that results in major injuries or even fatalities.
While you’re sure to contact the authorities and an experienced lawyer whenever serious injury or damage occurs, you might wonder whether it’s necessary in the wake of a minor car accident. It’s never a bad idea to seek medical attention and consult with a qualified attorney following an accident. Below is everything you need to know.
What Qualifies As A Minor Car Accident?
No legal definition or distinction separates a minor car accident from a major one, but that can make it difficult to determine how you should proceed. Nevertheless, you can rely on common sense to tell you which category an accident belongs in.
If a collision results in airbags going off, serious injuries like broken bones, traumatic brain injuries, or significant property damage, it could be categorized as major. A minor accident, on the other hand, may involve little or no damage to vehicles and result in superficial injuries like cuts or bruises.
Common Injuries In Car Accidents
Even in a relatively minor car, truck, or bicycle accident, victims may sustain injuries that require medical attention. Whiplash and concussion are among the most common injuries in all types of vehicle collisions, and both can entail ongoing symptoms that result in mounting medical bills, missed work, and lost wages.
While you might be able to manage some scrapes and bruises on your own, common injuries like sprains, strains, and broken bones, as well as mental and emotional trauma (anxiety, PTSD, etc.), can leave you dealing with ongoing costs and financial losses. If another party is at fault for the accident, these costs should be covered by their insurance.
Accident Reporting Requirements In Texas
Under the Texas Transportation Code section 550.026, drivers must contact local law enforcement if they are involved in an accident that results in injury, fatality, or damage significant enough that a vehicle cannot be “normally and safely driven.”
Furthermore, section 550.062 states that law enforcement officers must submit a crash report to the Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT) for any motor vehicle crash resulting in injury, death, or damages of $1,000 or more.
Even minor accidents in Houston, Texas, can result in injuries and damages with monetary consequences, so it’s always best to call the police and contact a lawyer.
How An Experienced Lawyer in Houston Can Help
When an accident occurs, your first steps should be to contact the police, seek medical attention, document the scene, and call your insurance provider. The at-fault party’s insurance should cover the costs related to the accident, including car repairs, medical bills, and other economic damages like lost wages, even for minor accidents.
Be that as it may, insurance companies don’t make money by paying out claims, and they may try to find ways to delay or deny payment. An experienced attorney has the knowledge and resources to help you fight for fair compensation, including negotiating a settlement or taking the case to court.
Contact the Personal Injury Attorneys In Houston, TX at Simon & O’Rourke Car Accident & Personal Injury Lawyers for Legal Assistance Today
For more information, please get in touch with the Houston personal injury attorneys at Simon & O’Rourke Car Accident & Personal Injury Lawyers at our nearest location to schedule a free consultation today.
Simon & O’Rourke Car Accident & Personal Injury Lawyers
440 Louisiana St Suite 2300-A, Houston, TX 77002
(281) 667-4081
About The Author
Sean O’Rourke earned his law degree from Southern Methodist University School of Law and is licensed to practice in Texas. He frequently assists clients with their legal needs in Houston, with a focus on personal injury cases, especially those involving motor vehicle accidents (such as cars, commercial trucks, 18-wheelers, & motorcycles). Click here to view some of the amazing case results that Sean has successfully handled.
Location: Houston, TX