Reckless driving behaviors like speeding, tailgating, weaving through traffic, and ignoring traffic signals put everyone in the vicinity at risk of severe injuries and even death. If another Dallas driver’s reckless actions caused an accident and you suffered injuries. As a result, it’s important to know what you can do to protect your health and your legal rights so you can pursue the compensation you deserve.
What to Do at the Scene
Immediately after a reckless driving accident, your first priority is your safety. If your injuries permit, call the police, exchange information with the other driver, and take pictures of the cars and the area around you. The more evidence you have, the stronger your case will be if you pursue a claim against the other driver.
Contact Your Insurance Company
Let your insurance company know about the accident right away. Most insurers require you to report an accident within a specific amount of time, and failure to do so can jeopardize your coverage. Tell the insurance representative the basic details of the accident, but avoid editorializing or attempting to assign or accept blame.
Be Careful When Talking to the Other Driver’s Insurance Company
The other driver’s insurance company will likely contact you after the accident. It’s important to remember that their goal is to protect their profits, which will be harmed if they pay you the amount you deserve. To this end, they might employ tactics to get you to say something that could hurt your case. Here are some tips to keep in mind when dealing with the other driver’s insurance company:
- Don’t admit fault or apologize for the accident. Even if you think you might be partly to blame, it’s best not to say anything that could be used against you later.
- If they offer you a settlement, don’t accept it before talking to a lawyer first. The initial offer is often much lower than you deserve, and a lawyer can help you negotiate a fair settlement.
- Be cautious about giving a recorded statement. The insurance company may try to use your words against you later, so it’s best to have a lawyer present during any recorded conversations.
- Only sign documents with a lawyer and review them first. You could be signing away your rights to future compensation without realizing it.
Remember, the other driver’s insurance company is not on your side. They’re looking out for their interests, not yours. That’s why having an attorney to guide you through the process and protect your rights is so important.
Talk to an Experienced Reckless Driving Accident Lawyer
Dealing with the legal process after being hurt by a reckless driver can be confusing and overwhelming, especially if you’re dealing with physical and financial challenges. Thankfully, a Dallas car accident attorney with experience advocating on behalf of reckless driving injury victims can help protect your rights and secure the compensation you deserve. Your attorney will:
- Handle all communications with third parties, including insurance companies
- Gather and analyze the accident evidence
- Negotiate with the at-fault driver’s insurer in pursuit of full compensation
- File a lawsuit and represent you in court if the insurer won’t offer a fair settlement
At every stage of the legal process, your attorney will aggressively fight for your rights and keep you posted on the progress of your case.
Contact Our Dallas Car Accident Lawyer for a FREE Consultation
At Rochelle McCullough, LLP, our team has significant experience handling reckless driving accident cases on behalf of clients in Dallas, TX. We know how traumatizing these accidents can be for victims and their families, and we’re here to give you the care and support you need. Contact us for a consultation to discuss seeking compensation for your injuries, lost income, and pain and suffering following an accident with a reckless driver.