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What to Do After a Car Accident in Texas – Step-by-Step Guide

What to Do After a Car Accident in Texas

Get to Safety and Call for Help

Move to a safe location away from traffic if you can. Turn on your hazard lights. If you can’t move your vehicle, stay inside with your seatbelt on until it’s safe to get out. Knowing what to do after a car accident in Texas includes calling 911 right away to report the accident and ask for police and medical help, even if injuries seem minor. Knowing what to do after a car accident in Texas can make all the difference in ensuring everyone’s safety.

Check for Injuries and Help

Check yourself and passengers for injuries. If someone is seriously hurt, don’t move them unless they are in immediate danger from fire, traffic, or other hazards. If you’re trained, administer basic first aid. Stay calm and reassure the injured until help arrives. Another essential step in what to do after a car accident in Texas is to remain as calm as possible to handle the situation effectively.

Call the Police

In Texas, you must report accidents that cause injury, death, or property damage over $1,000. A police report creates an official record for insurance and legal purposes. Only provide facts, don’t speculate or assign blame at the scene, as this is crucial in what to do after a car accident in Texas.

Secure the Scene

Turn on your flashers, use cones, flares, or reflective triangles if you have them to warn oncoming traffic. This warning is crucial to prevent other accidents and protect everyone. Don’t move vehicles unless necessary for safety or instructed to do so by the police, following steps on what to do after a car accident in Texas.

Exchange Info with Other Drivers

In Texas, you are required to give:

  • Full name and contact info
  • Driver’s license number
  • License plate number
  • Insurance company and policy number
  • Vehicle make, model, and year

Be polite and cooperative, but don’t apologize or admit fault, as these can be used against you later.

Gather Evidence

Document everything:

  • Take photos of vehicle damage, license plates, road conditions, skid marks, and traffic signs
  • Record the accident location, date, and time
  • Note the weather and visibility
  • Get the names and contact info of all witnesses
  • Record badge numbers and names of responding officers

Get Medical Help

Even if you don’t feel pain, some injuries like whiplash, internal bleeding, or concussions may not show up for hours or days. Get medical help right away to ensure your safety and to document any injuries related to the crash.

Notify Your Insurance Company

Report the accident to your insurer as soon as possible. Provide facts and give the police report number if you have it. Don’t give recorded statements to any insurance adjuster – especially the other driver’s insurer – without legal advice.

Protect Yourself: Texas is a modified comparative fault state, so if you are found partially at fault, your compensation can be reduced. Early legal representation ensures evidence is preserved, deadlines are met, and your claim is protected from insurance company undervaluation.

Read More: Should I Talk to the Trucking Company’s Insurance Company After an Accident?

Texas Accident Reporting and Deadlines

In addition to reporting to law enforcement immediately, you want to file a written crash report with the Texas Department of Transportation if the police don’t investigate. Personal injury lawsuits must be filed within two years of the accident.

Follow Through on Medical Treatment

Attend all follow-up appointments and follow medical advice to the letter. Keep copies of medical records, bills, and documentation of missed work, as these are crucial to proving damages.

Keep a Complete Accident File

Organize all documents related to the accident:

  • Medical reports
  • Repair estimates
  • Correspondence with insurance companies
  • Receipts for out-of-pocket expenses
  • Photos and witness statements

Be Wary of Settlement Offers

Insurance companies often offer quick settlements that are way less than the true value of your claim. Accepting an early offer may waive your right to pursue additional compensation for ongoing medical care, lost earning capacity, or future damages. Consider taking advantage of a free consultation with an experienced attorney.

Consult a Texas Car Accident Lawyer

An attorney can handle negotiations, gather expert testimony, calculate full damages, and represent you in court if necessary. Legal advice increases the chances of getting maximum compensation for medical bills, property damage, lost wages, and pain and suffering.

Call the Truck Accident Attorneys in Houston for a free case evaluation. (281) 893-0760

Serving Harris County and All of Texas

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About Greg Baumgartner

Truck accident lawyer Greg Baumgartner
Greg Baumgartner is a preeminent rated personal injury lawyer based in Houston, Texas, with over three decades of experience representing severely injured clients in truck accidents. He founded Baumgartner Law Firm, in 1985, with a mission to provide excellent legal representation and personalized attention to every client.