Frequently Asked Questions about automobile accidents and commercial truck wrecks

**Tip: print this page and keep it in your glove box! This information will prove helpful in the event of a wreck.

  • What information should I get at the scene of a car or truck wreck?
  • What should I observe at the scene of an accident?
  • What do I do after leaving the scene of a car or truck wreck?
  • How does insurance factor into an accident?
  • What do I do after a loved one has been in an automobile accident?
  • What is an at-fault/no-fault accident?
  • How do I know if I have a case?
  • Why should I consult with a lawyer?
  • How much compensation can I expect to recover?
  • Where can I go for vehicle safety information?

What information should I get at the scene of a vehicle accident?

It is important to obtain as much information as possible. Before you leave the scene of an accident, try to write down the following:

· How the accident happened
· Who you believe is responsible
· Time of day and date
· Location of the accident, including nearest address and/or cross streets
· Driver’s license number of each driver involved
· The name and policy number for each driver’s insurance company
· Names, addresses, and phone numbers of registered owners of the vehicles involved
· Names, addresses, and phone numbers of all individuals involved, including passengers and witnesses on the scene
· Name and contact information for any police officers at the scene
· Description of the injuries to other individuals and damage to the vehicles

If you have a cell phone, try to take some photos of the accident scene.

What should I observe at the scene of an accident?

Try to observe whether anyone was under the influence of alcohol or drugs. This information will be helpful in further investigating the accident and determining responsibility. Be sure to note if anyone claims responsibility immediately after an accident, and obtain all necessary contact information from this person.

What do I do after leaving the scene of a vehicle accident?

Make sure your insurance company has been notified. You will be asked to file a police report. Use the information you gathered at the scene of the accident as a guide. In certain cases, you may also be required to file a report with the Texas State Department of Motor Vehicles. Our staff can assist you in this process. For more information, contact an attorney today.

How does insurance factor into an accident?

Automobile insurance can cover the injuries and property damage of you and other drivers. The amount of coverage depends on what plan you have arranged with your insurance company. All insurance companies, regardless of your plan, require that you report an accident promptly. If you do not report an accident, your insurance company may deny you coverage.

What do I do after a loved one has been in an automobile accident?

If a loved one has been involved in an accident, it is imperative that he or she be in contact with his or her insurance company and with a personal injury attorney. If he or she has been injured and is unable to take steps to preserve his or her personal rights, contact an attorney today.

What is an at-fault/no-fault accident?

Certain states have voted on a no-fault law, mandating that each individual involved in a car accident is responsible for his or her own damages. However, Texas adopts an at-fault policy regarding automobile accidents. This means a single driver can be determined liable for the property damage and personal injury of any and all persons involved in an accident. If a driver is at fault, his or her insurance policy pays for these damages. If you believe you are the victim of another driver’s negligence, don’t hesitate to call our office today.

How do I know if I have a case?

Victims of a vehicle accident are often entitled to compensation for automobile damage, medical expenses, lost wages, and other property damage. If you suspect that an accident was caused by the reckless behavior of another individual, it is important that you seek legal representation. There are also instances when an injury may have been due to a defect in the vehicle, in which case a manufacturer may be held responsible. For a consultation about your vehicle accident or defect case, contact our office today.

Why should I consult with a lawyer?

Our personal injury attorneys are here to mediate between you and the other persons involved, as well as the insurance companies of each participant. We determine liability by collecting information, gathering evidence, and building a case for you. We will also help you document any injuries to you or your loved one to ensure you receive the appropriate compensation.
Contact our office today for more information.

How much compensation can I expect to recover?

The amount of compensation recovered depends on a variety of factors, including the extent of damage to your vehicle and the injuries you have suffered. Our skilled investigator and team of litigation professionals will reconstruct the accident to establish all contributing factors. Our attorneys have won millions of dollars in damages for personal injury victims. To see if you are entitled to compensation, call our office today.

Where can I go for vehicle safety information?

To learn more, please contact the office of Cappolino| Dodd | Krebs LLP by calling 1-800-460-0606.