Checklist for What to Do After a Car Accident in Texas

If you’re involved in a car accident in Texas, knowing the right steps to take is crucial to protect your health, safety, and legal rights. At Raul B. Rodriguez Law Firm, we’re committed to guiding you through this challenging time. Keep this checklist handy to ensure you’re prepared in the event of a collision.

Stay at the Scene

Under Texas law, you must remain at the scene of any accident that causes or is likely to cause injury, death, or significant property damage. Stop your vehicle as close to the scene as safely possible and turn on your hazard lights to prevent further collisions.

Check for Injuries

Immediately check yourself and your passengers for injuries. Then, if it’s safe, check on the occupants of the other vehicle(s) involved. Your safety and the safety of others is the top priority.

Report the Accident

Call 911 to report the accident to local law enforcement. Texas law requires reporting any crash that results in injury, death, or property damage exceeding $1,000. If injuries are apparent, request an ambulance through the emergency dispatcher.

Exchange Information with the Other Driver

Collect the following details from the other driver to support any potential insurance claims:

Name
Address
Phone number
Insurance provider and policy number
Vehicle description (make, model, color)
Driver’s license number

Having this information is critical for filing a claim or pursuing legal action.

Gather Witness Information

If bystanders witnessed the accident, politely ask for their names and contact information. Independent witness statements can be invaluable, especially if there’s a dispute about who was at fault.

Document the Scene

Use your phone to take clear, detailed photos of the accident scene, including:

The overall scene of the crash
Damage to all vehicles involved
Any property damage (e.g., guardrails, signs)
Skid marks, debris, or other physical evidence
Surrounding traffic signs or signals
License plates of involved vehicles
Weather and road conditions
Any visible injuries

These photos can serve as powerful evidence when building your case.

Be Cautious with Your Words

After an accident, emotions can run high, but avoid admitting fault or speculating about the cause. Stick to the facts when speaking with law enforcement or other drivers, as anything you say could impact your insurance claim or legal case.

Seek Medical Attention

Even if you feel fine, seek medical care promptly after the accident. Some injuries, like whiplash or concussions, may not be immediately apparent. Keep all medical records and bills, as they are essential for documenting your injuries.

Obtain the Accident Report

Request a copy of the police accident report, which may include critical details such as the other driver’s information, any citations issued, witness statements, and a diagram of the crash. This report can strengthen your claim.

Preserve Dashcam Footage

If your vehicle is equipped with a dashcam, save the footage immediately. Video evidence of the accident can be a game-changer when proving fault or supporting your claim.

Contact an Experienced Attorney

Navigating the aftermath of a car accident can be overwhelming, but you don’t have to do it alone. The skilled attorneys at Raul B. Rodriguez Law Firm in San Antonio, Texas, are here to help. With decades of experience representing car accident victims, we’ll listen to your story, explain your legal options, and fight for the compensation you deserve. Whether you choose to hire us or not, we’re happy to offer guidance.

Schedule a Free Consultation Today
Contact Raul B. Rodriguez Law Firm for a no-obligation consultation by calling (210) 899-0300. Let us help you take the next steps with confidence.

At Raul B. Rodriguez Law Firm, we’re values-driven personal injury lawyers dedicated to listening, educating, and advocating for our clients in San Antonio and throughout Texas. WE WON’T BACK DOWN EITHER! Let us support you in your time of need.