Injured in a Drive-Thru Accident? We’re Ready to Help
Drive-through lanes at fast food restaurants are all about convenience. Yet these quick stops can turn dangerous in an instant. In Texas (especially in busy cities like Houston), drive-thru accidents are more common than many people realize. Whether you were rear-ended waiting for your order, struck as a pedestrian walking near the drive-thru, or involved in another low-speed crash, the experience can leave you shocked and unsure of what to do next. It’s crucial to remember you have rights and options under Texas law. Contact The Adley Law Firm today for a free consultation to discuss your drive-thru accident – our team is here to help you understand your legal options and protect your rights.
Common Drive-Through Accident Scenarios
Drive-thru accidents can happen in a few typical ways:
- Rear-End Collisions: These are the most common. They occur when a distracted driver in line fails to stop and crashes into the car in front. Even at low speeds, a rear-end bump can cause injuries like whiplash.
- Pedestrian Accidents: Drivers sometimes don’t see people walking near the drive-thru lane or parking lot. A vehicle moving even slowly can seriously hurt a pedestrian in its path.
- Hit-and-Run Incidents: In some cases, the at-fault driver speeds off after an accident. If you’re a victim of a hit-and-run, try to note the fleeing vehicle’s details (license plate, model, color) and call the police right away. Many drive-thru restaurants have security cameras, which could help identify the driver, and you may be able to use your own uninsured motorist coverage if the culprit isn’t found.
Who Is Liable for a Drive-Thru Accident?
Usually the at-fault driver (the one who caused the crash) is financially liable. Texas follows an at-fault system, meaning the driver who caused the accident (or their insurer) must pay for the damages. If you were rear-ended or hit because another driver was careless, that driver’s insurance should cover your medical bills, vehicle repairs, and other losses. You shouldn’t have to bear the costs of an accident caused by someone else’s negligence.
Steps to Take After a Drive-Through Accident
After a drive-thru accident, the actions you take can protect your well-being and your ability to seek compensation. Here are some key steps to follow:
- Ensure Safety: Check for injuries and, if possible, move vehicles out of the drive-thru lane to a safe spot to prevent another accident.
- Call 911: If anyone is hurt or there’s significant damage, call 911 so police and medical help can arrive. A police report will document the crash for later.
- Exchange Information: Swap names, contact info, driver’s license numbers, and insurance details with the other driver. Get contact information from any witnesses as well. Avoid apologizing or admitting fault while talking about the accident.
- Document the Scene: Take photos of the vehicles, license plates, the surrounding area (including any hazards like poor lighting or signage), and any visible injuries.
- Seek Medical Care: Get a medical checkup as soon as you can, even if you feel okay. Some injuries (like whiplash or concussions) may not show symptoms immediately, and prompt treatment also creates a record of your injuries.
- Notify Your Insurance: Report the accident to your insurance company. Provide the basic facts of what happened, and don’t give a recorded statement to the other driver’s insurer without first consulting a lawyer.
- Consult an Attorney: Contact an experienced personal injury attorney, especially if you were hurt. A lawyer can explain your rights, help gather crucial evidence (such as security camera footage), and handle the legal and insurance process on your behalf.
How a Texas Car Accident Lawyer Can Help
Dealing with a claim on your own can be overwhelming. A knowledgeable attorney will take on the hard work so you can focus on healing. This includes investigating the accident (gathering evidence like camera footage and witness statements), handling all communication with the insurance companies, and fighting for the maximum compensation you deserve. With an experienced lawyer handling these details, you don’t have to navigate the legal process alone.
Free Consultation – Get Help from The Adley Law Firm Today
A drive-through accident can upend your life, but you don’t have to handle the aftermath alone. Contact The Adley Law Firm today for a free, no-obligation consultation about your case. Our experienced Houston personal injury lawyers will listen to your story and explain your legal options. We are bilingual (English and Spanish), and we work on contingency – you pay nothing unless we win your case. Let us help you protect your rights and get the compensation you need to move forward after a drive-thru accident.
