Jeffrey F. Duke General Practice Law Blog on Lawyers.com

If you have been involved in a car accident in Houston, it is important to remember the first steps to be taken. Safety comes first! Once everyone is out of harm’s way, assessment of injuries is the next step. Of course, if someone is trapped or so seriously injured that it is impossible or inadvisable to move them, then set up some kind of signals, flares or, at least, emergency flashers and wait for the police and ambulance to arrive. But those who are able should move to a safe area. If someone requires immediate emergency first aid, try to find a person present who has had the training to administer that aid. In addition to taking notes throughout the process, gather contact information from all witnesses. After these very first steps, there are a number of other things to do after a motor vehicle accident:

• Insurance Representative - Notify your insurance company of your accident if it occurred involving your own vehicle. This is important in order to comply with your automobile policy and also to claim reimbursement for property damage and medical expenses, depending on the circumstances of the accident.
• Police - Cooperate with the police at the scene of the accident. Answer all questions to the best of your ability. Be truthful.  Complete the required accident reports and file them with the police authorities in a timely manner.
• Doctor - In addition to any emergency treatment you receive at the time of the accident or at an emergency facility immediately after the accident, follow up with a complete medical examination by your doctor. Stick to the recommended treatment plan until your doctor releases you from his or her care.
• Attorney - Contact a personal injury attorney if you have experienced serious injury, whether it is financial or physical or emotional/psychological. An experienced automobile accident attorney will be able to advise you about your claim and possible lawsuit.

All the individuals listed will help you complete the first steps that should be taken following a motor vehicle accident. They are the professionals. The law requires some of these steps and others are necessary to assure you of your rights and assist you with accessing damages that may be owed to you.

Submitted by the Duke Firm, PC, Houston automobile accident lawyers.