Top 10 Mistakes to Avoid After a Car Accident in Pharr

If you’ve recently experienced a car accident in Pharr, Texas, you already know how stressful and overwhelming the aftermath can be. From physical injuries to emotional trauma and financial uncertainty, the consequences of a collision can affect your life immediately, and sometimes for years to come. At Anderson Alexander (A2X), we are a nationwide trial law firm based in Texas, with extensive experience handling catastrophic and personal injury cases, including car crashes. 

Our firm has a deep understanding of the unique challenges victims face in Pharr, a bustling border city near major highways, industrial zones, and ports. We work diligently to protect the rights of accident victims, especially those who may not realize the full extent of their legal options or who are vulnerable to being taken advantage of by insurance companies. Our goal is to serve as your trusted partner, helping you understand your rights, pursue full recovery, and obtain the justice you deserve. 

Common Mistakes

In the chaos of a crash, it’s easy to make decisions without thinking them through thoroughly. Many accident victims unknowingly jeopardize their claims by making typical mistakes. Recognizing these pitfalls is the first step to safeguarding your future recovery. 

1. Not Seeking Immediate Medical Attention 

One of the most common errors victims make is skipping a medical evaluation after an accident. It might be tempting to brush off minor pain or assume minor injuries. However, some injuries, like whiplash, concussions, internal bleeding, or soft tissue damage, may not show symptoms immediately. 

Failing to seek prompt medical care can weaken your case because insurance companies and defendants will argue your injuries are unrelated to the accident or exaggerated. Additionally, delays in treatment can lead to worsened health outcomes and reduce the total damages you can recover. 

2. Not Documenting the Scene of the Accident 

Photographs of the crash site, vehicle damage, skid marks, traffic signs, and nearby witnesses are often vital pieces of evidence in a case. Many victims neglect or forget to gather this information, which can sometimes weaken a case. Documentation not only helps establish liability but also shows the severity of your injuries. 

But don't worry if you weren’t able to capture evidence due to serious harm, being rushed away in an ambulance, or simply because you were overwhelmed after an accident. Our team understands these situations and can thoroughly investigate using all available information to support your case. 

3. Admitting Fault or Making Inconsistent Statements 

Even innocent comments at the scene, such as “It’s my fault” or “I didn’t see them”, can be used against you later. Insurance adjusters and defense attorneys scrutinize every statement. It's crucial to avoid admitting fault or providing detailed explanations until you’ve consulted with a member of our team. 

4. Speaking with Insurance Adjusters 

At A2X, we know how overwhelming things can feel right after an accident. Insurance companies often reach out quickly, requesting recorded statements or offering quick settlements. They might sound helpful, but their goal is usually to minimize what they pay for. If you're unsure about what to say or feel pressured, you're not alone. Our team is here to guide you through it. Before speaking with insurers, reach out to us, and we’ll make sure your rights are protected and you’re not taken advantage of. 

5. Waiting to File Your Claim 

Time is a critical factor. Texas imposes a statute of limitations of generally 2 years from the date of the accident to file a lawsuit. Waiting too long can result in losing your right to recover damages altogether. Initiating your claim early ensures you meet deadlines and preserves evidence. 

6. Not Keeping Track of Medical Expenses and Lost Wages 

Keeping track of every medical bill, treatment record, and proof of lost wages can make a massive difference in the value of your settlement, but we know that can be a lot to manage, especially when you're focused on healing. At A2X, we’ll help you gather, organize, and document everything correctly, so nothing gets overlooked. Our team works closely with you to make sure all your damages are clearly accounted for and used effectively to build a strong case on your behalf. 

7. Settling Too Quickly or Without Legal Advice 

Insurance adjusters may pressure victims to settle quickly, offering lowball amounts before injuries fully materialize. It’s essential to reach out to A2X before you accept these offers so we can assess the actual value of your case and negotiate fair compensation. 

8. Ignoring Long-term Implications of Injuries 

At A2X, we understand that some injuries don’t just heal in a few weeks, but they can lead to chronic pain, long-term disability, or even reduced earning capacity. These long-term impacts aren’t always obvious right away, but they matter profoundly. Our team looks beyond the surface to make sure your future needs are fully considered. We work with medical experts and financial professionals to evaluate these damages and ensure they’re factored into your settlement, not overlooked or undervalued. When you try to handle a claim on your own or speak with an insurance adjuster without legal support, you may unknowingly undermine the long-term value of your case, potentially leaving you with significant losses down the line. 

9. Failing to Hire an Experienced Personal Injury Lawyer 

Legal cases involving car accidents can become complex, especially when multiple parties or insurance policies are involved. Self-representation or inexperienced counsel can result in lost compensation. 

That’s where A2X comes in. Our team is experienced in navigating complex accident cases, including those involving multiple parties, disputed liability, or overlapping insurance coverage. We take the burden off your shoulders by investigating every angle, coordinating with experts, and building a case that captures the full extent of your damages. With A2X on your side, you don’t have to worry about missed opportunities or leaving money on the table. We fight to get you the compensation you truly deserve. 

10. Delaying Legal Actions After the Incident 

Timing is everything; delays can jeopardize your case and limit your options. You must act promptly to gather evidence, meet deadlines, and build a strong case. 

Even if some mistakes have occurred, A2X can assist in collecting critical evidence, negotiating with insurers, and building a strong case on your behalf. We understand how insurance companies operate and can correct or mitigate the impact of early errors. Car accidents can result in a wide range of injuries, from burns and crush injuries to respiratory illnesses and long-term disabilities. The severity of these injuries often impacts your future earning capacity and quality of life. We carefully evaluate both immediate damages and long-term impacts to secure fair compensation for our clients. 

The Statute of Limitations for Car Accident Claims in Texas 

In Texas, the law sets a strict deadline, called a statute of limitations, for filing a personal injury lawsuit. Generally, you have two years from the date of the accident to initiate legal action. If you miss this deadline, your right to compensation will be barred, regardless of the strength of your case or the severity of your injuries. 

This timeline underscores the importance of acting promptly. The longer you wait, the more difficult it becomes to gather evidence, locate witnesses, or obtain relevant documentation. Additionally, insurance companies may aggressively defend their interests and make low offers early on, before your injuries are fully understood. 

Each step you take after an accident influences your case’s strength and potential settlement amount, which is why early legal consultation is essential to ensure your case is filed correctly and on time. Contact A2X as soon as possible to ensure your case is handled within the required timeframe. 

Reach Out to A2X Today  

Accident cases are highly complex, as they can involve multiple parties, extensive evidence, and strict deadlines. We have the experience to investigate your accident, identify liable parties, and fight for maximum compensation. Our goal is to ensure your rights are protected, and you receive the full amount you’re entitled to. If you've been involved in a car accident in Pharr, Texas, don’t wait to seek legal help. A2X is here to guide you through the process, protect your rights, and fight for the full compensation you deserve. Call us today to set up a consultation and take the first step toward recovery.