Forbes: The Average Driver Files an Accident Claim Every 18 Years

According to car insurance statistics cited by Forbes, the average motorist will file a claim approximately once every 18 years. That means if you start driving at age 16, you will most likely be involved in some kind of collision by the time you turn 34. Also, over the course of your lifetime, you can expect to be in three to four car accidents.

Although most collisions are not fatal, many of them cause debilitating injuries. According to the Texas Department of Transportation, 17,011 people in our state sustained serious injuries in crashes in 2015. In addition to the initial pain, many of these victims faced exorbitant medical bills and could not earn a living while they recovered.

If you were injured by a drunk, distracted, or negligent driver in Texas, contact the Cooper Law Firm to discuss your case. Attorney N. Eric Cooper will help you fight for the maximum settlement, and if your case goes to trial, he has the litigation experience to represent your interests in court. Call 903-297-0037 to schedule a free consultation with an accident lawyer in Dallas.

What Should I Do in the Event of a Collision?

Whether you drive regularly or only on occasion, it is important that you know the steps to take after a collision. One small oversight could significantly reduce your chances of recovering fair compensation if you decide to file a personal injury claim.

The first step you should take after any accident is to call the police. If the damage appears minor and the other motorist was clearly at fault, he or she may try to convince you not to call the police, but this would be a mistake. You will need a police report to file your claim – especially if the other driver denies liability. Even if your injuries do not seem that serious, the shock and adrenaline of the wreck may be masking the symptoms of a severe complication.

After calling the police, write down the other driver’s phone number and insurance information. While waiting for the police to arrive, you should take photos of the scene. Be sure to capture the positions of vehicles, skid marks, property damage, injuries, and traffic signs.

You should also record the contact information of eyewitnesses. Your attorney may use their testimonies to prove negligence and liability.

After the police give you permission to leave, visit your doctor as soon as possible. Your lawyer may use medical records to tie your injuries to the collision.

You should then contact a personal injury attorney to discuss your case. N. Eric Cooper is an accident lawyer in Dallas who will help you avoid costly mistakes such as accepting a settlement too early, overlooking certain damages, or making a recorded statement to the insurance company. Call 903-297-0037 to schedule a free initial consultation. You can learn more about car accident claims in Texas by visiting the USAttorneys website.