5 Things You Need to Know About the Car Accident Claims Process

Getting into a car accident is stressful enough. But what follows can be just as overwhelming: doctor’s appointments, car repairs, and dealing with insurance companies. If you’ve been injured, you’re likely also worried about medical bills, missed work, and how to get the compensation you need to recover.

At McCraw Law Group, we guide car accident victims across Texas through the claims process every day. Here are the five most important things you need to know to protect your rights and maximize your settlement.

1. You Need to Seek Medical Attention Immediately

Even if you feel "okay" after a crash, it’s critical to get checked by a doctor as soon as possible. Many serious injuries like whiplash, internal bleeding, or concussions can have delayed symptoms. Waiting too long to seek care can not only hurt your health—it can also hurt your legal claim.

Why it matters: Insurance companies look at the timing of your medical treatment. If there’s a gap, they may argue that your injuries weren’t serious or weren’t caused by the accident.

2. Insurance Companies Are Not on Your Side

After a crash, you may get a call from an insurance adjuster offering a quick settlement. It might sound tempting, especially if you’re facing unexpected expenses. But these early offers are usually low and designed to close your case fast—before you know the full extent of your injuries.

Important tip: Don’t sign anything or give a recorded statement without talking to an attorney. What you say can be used against you later.

3. Documentation Is Critical

To build a strong claim, you need solid documentation. This includes:

Photos of the accident scene and vehicle damage

Medical records and bills
Police reports
Pay stubs showing lost wages
Journal entries describing your pain and limitations

Pro tip: Start collecting this information immediately and keep it organized. The more proof you have, the stronger your claim.

4. You May Be Entitled to More Than Just Medical Bills

Many accident victims don’t realize how much they may be entitled to under Texas law. You can pursue compensation for:

Past and future medical expenses
Lost wages and diminished earning capacity
Pain and suffering
Emotional distress
Property damage

Bottom line: Don’t assume the insurance company will tell you everything you can claim. They won’t. An experienced car accident lawyer will help you calculate the full value of your damages.

5. Hiring a Lawyer Can Make a Big Difference

You don’t have to handle this alone. The right legal team will take over the paperwork, negotiations, and legal strategy so you can focus on healing. At McCraw Law Group, we know how to push back against insurance companies and fight for what you deserve.

Our Promise:

Free consultations
No fee unless we win
Personal attention from start to finish

What the Claims Process Typically Looks Like

While every case is different, here’s a general overview of how the car accident claims process works:

Medical Treatment: Get the care you need and follow all doctor’s recommendations.
Investigation: Your lawyer will gather evidence, contact witnesses, and obtain reports.
Demand Letter: Once your treatment is stable, your attorney will send a settlement demand.
Negotiation: The insurance company may make a counteroffer. This phase may involve back-and-forth until a fair resolution is reached.
Settlement or Lawsuit: Most claims settle without a lawsuit, but if needed, we are ready to go to court.

Let McCraw Law Group Help You Navigate the Process

We understand how overwhelming it can feel after a crash. Our goal is to shoulder the legal burden so you can focus on your recovery. Whether your case is straightforward or complex, we’ll give you the support and representation you need.

Serving Clients Across Texas From McKinney to Amarillo and beyond, McCraw Law Group is here to fight for accident victims statewide. Contact us today for your free case review.

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