Texas is a fault-based state when it comes to auto accidents, meaning it’s essential to know who is responsible for a car accident, especially if victims are injured in the crash. If you’re involved in a car accident caused by a negligent driver in Texas, the negligent driver’s auto insurance will likely cover your medical expenses. However, their insurance won’t be obligated to cover lost wages and your pain and suffering. You’ll need to file a personal injury claim to do so. To learn about the importance of witnesses during a car accident injury claim, read this blog or reach out to a San Antonio, Texas Car Accident Lawyer today!
WHY ARE WITNESSES IMPORTANT IN A CAR ACCIDENT PERSONAL INJURY CASE?
In order to win any personal injury lawsuit, you’ll need to gather sufficient evidence to prove that the other driver’s negligence directly led to your injuries. Negligence is defined in the legal world as when someone fails their civic duty to minimize harm to others. An example of a driver’s negligence would be driving while under the influence of alcohol.
To prove that the driver’s negligence caused the accident, you’ll need surveillance video, witness statements, and/or testimony from an accident reconstruction expert. However, surveillance video of the accident isn’t always available, and hiring an accident reconstruction expert can be quite expensive. This is why collecting witness statements is essential for car accident injury claims. Possible witnesses that you can collect statements from include pedestrians, passengers, or other drivers who saw the accident occur or saw what led to the accident.
HOW CAN I LEGALLY COLLECT WITNESS STATEMENTS?
It’s a good idea to call the proper authorities after an auto accident so that police can file an official report of the incident. If police officers arrive on the scene of the accident, they likely will interview both the involved parties and witnesses to determine which driver was at fault for the accident. However, if the police do not arrive on the scene or interview witnesses for any reason, you may ask witnesses for their contact information. They may be willing to back up your claim in court. Keep in mind that an insurance adjuster might call them to influence their testimony, but you can’t legally tell the witness not to talk to the adjuster. If any witnesses are unwilling to provide a statement about what they saw, you’ll need to leave them alone.
Have you recently been injured in a car accident caused by another driver’s negligence? Are you looking for a talented personal injury attorney who has your best interests in mind? Look no further because Sahadi Legal Group is here to fight for you! Contact our highly experienced firm today to learn more about our individualized legal counseling.
