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Car accidents happen fast. Whether you’re on I-45 near Houston or I-30 in Dallas, when someone else causes the crash in Texas, your next moves matter. Acting correctly protects your rights and helps secure fair compensation for vehicle damage, medical bills, and other expenses.

Most Texas drivers only think about what to do after a crash once metal meets metal. From Houston’s busy highways to Dallas’s crowded intersections, stress and adrenaline can cloud judgment. Even minor accidents bring up questions: Should you move your car? What information do you need from the other driver? Does this need to be reported? Most of these actions will need to be taken care of before you contact a car accident lawyer, so it’s critical you know what to do in the immediate aftermath of a vehicle accident.

Some steps need to be taken within minutes of the accident, while others can wait a few hours or days. Knowing the difference helps you focus on what matters now versus what can wait until things calm down – whether you’re dealing with a fender bender in downtown Houston or a major collision in Dallas.

Immediate Scene Actions (First 30 Minutes)

The moments right after a car accident require quick action. Your priority is preventing any further accidents while gathering proper documentation of what happened. These first steps protect everyone involved and create a clear record of the incident.

Ensure Safety at the Scene

If your vehicle still runs, move to a safe location. Pull onto the road shoulder, into a parking area, or away from traffic. Turn on your hazard lights. If moving your car might destroy accident evidence or isn’t possible, stay put.

Look for injuries — first yourself and then your passengers. Don’t move anyone who might have neck or back pain. Stay inside your vehicle if you’re safely away from traffic. If you must exit, watch for passing cars.

Call Emergency Services

Dial 911 immediately if anyone shows signs of injury. Even for minor crashes, having a police officer document the scene helps prevent disputes later. Stay on the line with dispatch until they have all the needed details about your location and the accident’s severity.

While waiting for the police, don’t discuss fault with the other driver. But, if the other driver does admit fault, be sure to secure evidence of that admission at the scene. The best way to do this is by notifying the police and getting an official police report.

Gathering Key Information (Next Steps)

While events are fresh, collect details that protect your claim. Memory fades quickly after accidents, and evidence can disappear within hours. When dealing with insurance companies, missing essential information now could hurt your case weeks or months later.

Small details often differentiate between a smooth claims process and a disputed case. Think of yourself as gathering puzzle pieces – each bit of information helps complete the picture of what happened. Many times this can establish who’s at fault, making your claim much stronger. If you don’t identify who’s at fault, your claim may be dismissed or your compensation may not be what it should be.

Gather Information from Involved Parties

Get the other driver’s name, phone number, address, and license plate number. Write down their insurance company name and policy number. Instead of writing them down, take photos of their driver’s license and insurance card — this prevents errors.

Document the Accident Scene

Documenting the accident is a critical step in letting the insurance and law enforcement piece together what happened. Take photos of both vehicles before moving them. Capture all damage angles, skid marks, and road conditions. Snap pictures of street signs, traffic signals, and weather conditions. Get wide shots showing the entire accident scene and close-ups of specific property damage.

Collect Witness Statements

Ask anyone who witnessed the crash for their contact information. Write down or record their statements about what happened. Most witnesses will stick around only a short time, so talk to them before they leave. Get business cards from nearby store owners – their security cameras might have caught the collision.

Seek Medical Attention

Get checked by a medical professional even if you feel fine. Car accidents trigger adrenaline that masks pain and injury symptoms. Watch for delayed signs like headaches, neck pain, or dizziness that might appear hours or days later. Keep all medical records, including emergency room visits, follow-up appointments, and prescribed treatments. These medical documents connect your injuries directly to the accident – a crucial link for your personal injury claim.

Insurance and Legal Steps (First 24 Hours)

The right moves now prevent problems later. Insurance companies start building their case immediately, and you need to stay ahead of the process. Every conversation matters – from brief phone calls to email exchanges. Many drivers hurt their claims in these first 24 hours by saying too much or agreeing to things too quickly. Focus on protecting your interests while staying professional and factual in all communications.

Notify Your Insurance Company

Call your insurance company to report the accident. Stick to basic facts — date, time, location, and vehicles involved. Don’t guess about injuries or vehicle damage. Your policy requires prompt notification, but you’re not required to give a recorded statement immediately.

Dealing with the Other Driver’s Insurance

Expect a call from the other driver’s insurance company. Be polite but brief. Don’t discuss fault, injuries, or settlement offers. Tell them you’re still gathering information about your injuries and vehicle damage. Their job is to pay as little as possible on the claim. Talking to the other driver’s insurance company can actually hurt your case should it go to court.

Understanding Your Rights

You have the right to choose your repair shop, doctor, and legal representation. Don’t let insurance adjusters pressure you into using their “preferred” providers. Take time to research your options. Insurance companies count on quick settlements before you know the full extent of damages and injuries.

Next Steps and Protection (Moving Forward)

Your actions in the coming days shape how your claim unfolds. A clear paper trail and professional guidance often lead to better outcomes than handling things alone. Insurance companies track every move you make, looking for ways to minimize your claim.

Most accident victims don’t realize they’re building their case with each doctor’s visit, conversation, and document they save – or lose ground with each misstep. Having a strategy now helps you avoid common traps that can reduce your compensation later.

Consulting an Attorney for Legal Advice

Meet with a car accident lawyer before accepting any settlement offers. Initial consultations are usually free and help you understand your claim’s actual value. Bring your accident photos, police report, medical records, and any messages from insurance companies. Small details you overlook could significantly affect your case value.

Documentation Organization

Keep a digital or physical file of everything related to your accident. Save medical bills, repair estimates, and records of missed work. Write down how your injuries affect your daily life. Track conversations with insurance companies, including dates, names, and key points discussed.

Final Considerations

Watch what you post on social media about the accident or your injuries. Insurance companies often monitor these accounts. Keep following up with your doctors and attending all appointments – gaps in treatment can hurt your claim. If you’re missing work, get written documentation from your employer about lost wages.

Remember, every accident claim follows a simple formula: solid documentation plus prompt action equals fair compensation. Start with safety and medical care. Move to gathering evidence and proper documentation. End with protecting your rights through careful communication with insurance companies.

Save this guide for reference, and don’t hesitate to call our office with questions about your situation. The sooner you act, the stronger your position – but rushing into quick settlements rarely works in your favor.

This post is for informational purposes and does not contain or convey legal advice. The information herein should not be used or relied upon in regard to any particular facts or circumstances without first consulting with an attorney.
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