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| GET CONTACT INFORMATION FROM EVERYONE AT THE SCENE |
Have
you ever been a victim in a Texas auto or truck accident that you did not
cause, but were held responsible for the cost of the accident or the other
driver was not held at fault because you didn’t have any witnesses?
This story is a familiar one to our firm.
Without independent witnesses, recovery can be difficult. Insurance companies
may utilize the fact if that there are no witness listed on the police report,
they will take the word of their driver and resuse to accept liability or
discuss settlement. This leaves filing a lawsuit and a lengthy court fight as the
only option to recover for the injuries you have sustained.
In a Texas court, the injured person has the
burden of proof. That means the injured person must prove the other driver is
at fault. If it is your word against the other driver, that may not be enough
to convince a jury. To strengthen your
case, independent testimony can be vital. This testimony combined with an investigating officer report that charges the
other driver, may make your day at the courthouse successful.
If you are involved in a Texas auto accident,
you should ask the people who stop for their names and contact information.
Even if they did not see the actual accident, they may remember facts that can
help you prove your case. In fact, witnesses will have more information than just
the actual crash facts. For instance, they may notice that the other driver was
distracted, speeding or exhibiting aggressive behavior. This information can
support your credibility and undermine the other driver’s credibility.
It is important to secure the names, phone
numbers and addresses of the witnesses at the scene. Ask the investigating
officer if he or she obtained the names and contact information of everyone who
was present at the scene. There are times when the officer in the midst of an
investigation, they may not obtain complete witness information. If you
or someone else at the scene is capable, then get the information directly.
Whether you were in the Texas auto accident or a
concerned motorist stopping to provide assistance, you should obtain the names
and contact information of people present at the scene, especially eyewitnesses
to the crash, and provide that information to the police officer and to persons
involved in the crash. That information could mean the difference between
whether an injured person is able to recover for injuries and losses caused by
someone else. With some investigation and diligence in getting witness
information, your day at the courthouse can be a pleasant one.
If you have been in a Texas auto or truck
accident, do not hesitate to call The Law Office Of T. Christopher Lewis. We
are experienced in investigating Texas auto accidents and helping people who
are injured get the best results from the insurance companies and will help
you.
Fill out the form below or call us now at (817) 795-3900.
