What to Do After a Houston Car Accident: a Checklist

Houston-car-accident-checklist

1. Check for Injuries

The first and most important step after a car wreck is to check to see if anyone is hurt. If anyone is hurt, call 911 for medical assistance. Even if you don’t feel injured, getting checked out by a doctor is still a good idea, as some injuries may not be immediately apparent.

2. Stay at the Accident Site

Texas Transportation Code 550.021 requires you to stay at the scene of an accident if the crash likely caused an injury. If you can safely move your vehicle out of traffic, while remaining at the scene, do so. This will help prevent any other accidents or injuries. If your car can’t be moved, turn on your hazard lights to help warn other drivers.

3. Call the Police

Even if the Houston accident is minor, it’s important to call the police and file a report. Call 911 as soon as possible. You can also report the crash to Harris County Sheriff’s Office at 713-221-6000. This report will be important for insurance purposes. It can also help protect your rights if any legal issues arise from the accident.

The Police Determination of Fault is Not Binding

When you call the police after a car accident, they will typically come to the scene, investigate the accident, and write a report. This report will document important information about the crash, such as the date, time, location, and parties involved. The crash report may also include statements from witnesses and any available evidence, such as photographs or video footage.

The police report is crucial for insurance purposes as a report is an official record of the accident. It can help determine who was at fault and assist in the claims process. Additionally, if any legal issues arise from the accident, the police report can be used as evidence in court. Please note that the opinions of the investigating officer are not binding as to who is at fault. 

Therefore, it is important to call the police and have a report filed, even if the accident seems minor. Calling officers can help protect your rights and ensure the necessary information is documented for insurance and legal purposes.

4. Exchange Information

Drivers exchanging information after an accident is required in Texas. Information to get includes:

• Name and contact information.
• Insurance company and policy number
• Driver’s license number
• License plate number
• Make, model, and color of the vehicle.

If injuries or property damage exceeds $1000, Texas Transportation Code Section 550.26 requires you to report the car accident to the authorities. If the police do not arrive at the scene, consider filing a crash report known as a CR-2 Blue Form with the Texas Transportation Department. You have ten days to file such a report. It usually takes about a week for your accident report to be available to you.

5. Document the Scene

Take photos or video of the accident to show damage to your vehicle and the other vehicle involved. Scene photos like traffic signals and points of impact, skid marks, and other facts should be documented if you can do so safely.

Shooting photographs will be helpful for insurance claims and any legal proceedings.

Gathering evidence also provides benefits for a car accident claim, including:

• It provides proof for your insurance claims for property damage or personal injury.
• Documenting the crash may aid in establishing negligence by the other driver.
• It can be used to counteract claims by the other driver trying to blame you for the accident.

6. Gather Witness Information

If there were any witnesses to the accident, please get their contact information. They can provide valuable information if there are any disputes about fault for the accident.

7. Notify Your Auto Insurance Company

Contact your car insurance company as soon as possible to report the accident. Your auto insurance company will help you through the claims process and provide information about your coverage.

When interacting with insurance companies, provide only factual information. Be careful in any statement interpreted as admitting fault. If you are unsure about what to say, consult with an experienced car accident attorney.

8. Seek Medical Attention

Even if you don’t feel injured, it’s important to see a doctor after a car accident. Some injuries may not be immediately known. Documenting injuries is important for insurance purposes.

9. Keep Track of Your Expenses

Keep track of your auto accident expenses, such as medical bills, car repairs, and other costs. These expenses may be reimbursed by your insurance company or the other driver’s insurance company.

10. Contact a Houston Car Accident Lawyer

If you were injured in the accident or have any legal disputes, it’s important to contact a Houston lawyer for a car accident. An experienced car accident attorney can help protect your rights and fight for full compensation for damages or injuries.