Car accidents can happen in seconds, but their effects can last months or even years. In Texas, knowing exactly what to do after a crash helps protect your health, legal rights, and financial future. Whether it’s a fender bender or a major collision, following the right steps is crucial for your recovery and insurance claims. Consulting a Houston car accident lawyer can also make a significant difference in ensuring you get the compensation and support you deserve.
1. Stay at the Scene of the Accident
Texas law (Transportation Code § 550.021) makes it illegal to leave the scene of a crash that causes injury, death, or significant vehicle damage. Leaving could result in a hit-and-run charge, a serious criminal offense.
Even if the accident seems minor, always stop your vehicle and stay nearby. This allows police to get your statement and ensures you’re part of the official crash report. Staying also gives you a chance to exchange information and gather critical evidence from the scene.
Remaining present shows responsibility and positions you favorably for insurance or legal matters that follow. Never drive away from a crash until you’ve completed the necessary steps.
2. Move to a Safe Location
Once you’ve ensured everyone is okay, move your vehicle out of traffic if it’s safe to do so. This helps prevent secondary crashes and protects others on the road. If your car can’t be moved, turn on your hazard lights to alert oncoming traffic.
If you or anyone else is injured, avoid moving them unless there is immediate danger (such as fire or risk of explosion). Your safety comes first. Stand at a safe distance from the road and wait for help to arrive.
Staying safe minimizes additional injuries or vehicle damage and keeps you legally compliant under Texas traffic laws.
3. Exchange Information Only
After making sure everyone is safe, exchange basic contact and insurance information with the other driver. According to Texas Transportation Code § 550.023, you must share your name, address, driver’s license, vehicle registration, and insurance details.
Avoid discussing who was at fault or apologizing, as these statements could be used against you later. Remain calm, professional, and focused on the facts.
Collect information such as license plate numbers, vehicle make and model, and names of any passengers. This data is essential for your insurance claim and future legal action if needed.
4. Call 911 and Notify Authorities
Always call 911 after a car accident—even if it appears minor. In Texas, crashes that involve injury, death, or damage exceeding $1,000 must be reported to the police under Texas Transportation Code § 550.026.
A responding officer will write a crash report, which includes diagrams, witness accounts, and fault assessments. This report is often key evidence in insurance and legal proceedings.
If police do not respond to the scene, you may need to complete a crash report form (CR-2) and submit it to the Texas Department of Transportation within 10 days.
Having an official record ensures accuracy and helps protect your version of events.
5. Seek Medical Attention Immediately
Even if you feel okay, always get a medical evaluation as soon as possible after an accident. Injuries like whiplash, internal bleeding, or concussions can take hours or days to appear.
Delaying treatment can worsen injuries and weaken your personal injury claim. Insurance companies may argue your injuries were not related to the crash if you wait too long to see a doctor.
Getting prompt care documents the full extent of your injuries in your medical records. This becomes essential if you pursue compensation for pain, suffering, or lost income.
6. Document the Scene and Gather Evidence
Use your smartphone to take clear photos of the accident scene. Capture vehicle damage, road conditions, traffic signs, skid marks, and any visible injuries. Take wide shots of the scene and close-ups of specific damage.
If any bystanders witnessed the accident, politely ask for their names and contact information. Their statements can support your version of events in an insurance claim or lawsuit.
Also, make notes about the weather, time of day, and anything unusual about the other driver’s behavior (such as slurred speech or aggression). This evidence can be powerful in establishing fault.
7. Notify Your Insurance Company
Report the accident to your insurer as soon as possible. Most policies require you to notify them promptly to stay eligible for benefits. Stick to the facts and avoid speculating about fault or causes.
Be cautious if the other driver’s insurance company contacts you. They may try to settle your claim quickly or get you to admit fault. Do not provide recorded statements without speaking to a lawyer.
Your insurer can explain the process for filing a claim, car repairs, and coverage for medical expenses or rental vehicles.
8. Obtain the Police Crash Report
The crash report is a key piece of evidence in any car accident case. It typically includes all parties’ names, descriptions of the accident, diagrams, citations issued, and sometimes an opinion on fault.
You can request your Texas crash report through the TxDOT Crash Report Online Purchase System. You’ll need basic info such as the date and county of the accident, and names of involved parties.
Having this report allows you and your attorney to build a strong case based on documented facts.
9. Contact a Texas Car Accident Attorney
Hiring a car accident lawyer ensures your rights are protected throughout the claims process. Insurance companies often try to reduce payouts by shifting blame or minimizing your injuries.
An experienced attorney can investigate the crash, handle negotiations, and pursue full compensation for medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering. They can also represent you in court if necessary.
Legal guidance is especially important if you suffered serious injuries or the insurance company is denying your claim. Don’t let them take advantage of you.
10. Keep a Record of All Expenses and Communication
Start a folder to store every document related to the accident. This should include medical records, car repair estimates, photos, police reports, and receipts for any related expenses.
Keep a diary documenting your pain, doctor visits, emotional state, and how your injuries affect your daily life. This adds depth to your claim and helps justify compensation for non-economic damages.
Track any missed workdays and lost income, and ask your employer to document this. A strong paper trail makes it harder for insurers to dispute your claim.
Final Thoughts: Take the Right Steps After a Texas Accident
Car accidents are overwhelming, but taking the right steps makes a big difference in your recovery. From calling 911 and gathering evidence to contacting your insurance and seeking legal help, each action protects your health and financial future.
Don’t rely on luck or hope that the insurance company will treat you fairly. Be informed, take control, and protect your legal rights every step of the way.
Let Dhanani Law Help You Move Forward
If you’ve been hurt in a car accident, Dhanani Law is here to support you. We help Texans get the justice and compensation they deserve after serious crashes. Our legal team will deal with the insurance companies and fight for your best outcome—so you can focus on healing.
Contact Dhanani Law today for a free consultation and take the first step toward recovery.
