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(281) 587-1111
(281) 587-1111
May 22, 2023 by Greg Baumgartner
The Texas Department of Transportation (DOT) and the Texas Transportation Code provide guidelines and regulations for handling car accident reports properly in Texas.
If you’re involved in a car accident in Texas, knowing what steps to take to ensure your safety and protect your rights is essential. Here’s a step-by-step guide on what to do after a car accident in Texas:
According to Texas Transportation Code Section 550.026, you must report a car accident if it results in injury or death or causes property damage to more than $1,000. It is essential to promptly report these incidents to the appropriate law enforcement agency to ensure proper documentation and investigation.
To file a car crash report in Texas, you should report the accident to the DOT within ten days. The crash report, also known as Form CR-2 or the Blue Form, is the primary document used to report a car accident in Texas. When filling out the form, gather relevant information, such as:
Maybe. If there are conflicting versions of what happened, our experience is that the investigating officer will probably not choose a side. Police crash reports are critical documents that can significantly impact the outcome of your claim.
To get your accident report changed, there are several steps you can take:
1. Review the report: Carefully read your accident report and identify any incorrect or missing information. Understanding the inaccuracies in the report is important before proceeding with any actions.
2. Contact the police department: Reach out to the police department that handled your case and ask to speak with the officer who completed the report, if possible. Remain polite and respectful throughout the conversation, which will help create a positive dialogue.
3. Explain the errors: Clearly describe the errors you found in the report to the officer and ask if they can be corrected. Provide specific details and documentation to support your claims. This evidence can include photos, videos, insurance policies, medical records, or witness statements.
4. Provide supporting documentation: Gathering and presenting supporting documentation increases your chances of getting the report changed. It is essential evidence that can help correct factual errors or provide the officer with a clearer perspective. This documentation could include any records or materials that contradict the inaccuracies noted in the report.
5. Request factual error corrections: If you have provided the necessary documentation, the officer may be willing to change factual errors in your report or offer amendments for clarification. In some cases, transcription errors can be rectified by reviewing the officer’s notes at the scene.
6. Understand limitations: Remember that changing the report may not always be possible. Certain situations, such as missing or disputed information, may present challenges. For instance, if the officer did not include information due to lack of memory or the report contains statements from other drivers or witnesses that conflict with your version of events, it may be difficult to alter the report.
7. Add an addendum: If it is impossible to change the report, the officer may allow you to include an addendum. This appendix serves as your statement, providing clarity and further details regarding what you saw or experienced during the accident. It helps ensure that your perspective is recorded alongside the official report.
Remember, acting quickly when seeking to change your accident report is crucial. Consultation with an attorney experienced in handling personal injury claims may also be beneficial, as they can guide you through the process and maximize your chances of achieving the desired changes to the report.
Notifying your insurer allows them to initiate the claims process and provide guidance regarding the coverage and compensation to which you may be entitled. Failure to report the accident within a reasonable time may result in the denial of coverage or delays in compensation.
If you encounter any challenges with your car accident claim, seeking assistance from a qualified Houston, Texas car accident attorney can help protect your rights and maximize your chances of obtaining a fair settlement. They possess the knowledge and experience necessary to navigate the complex legal landscape and negotiate with insurance companies on your behalf.
Read More: Car Accident Frequently Asked Questions
Texas operates under a “fault” system regarding car accidents. This means that the at-fault driver is responsible for the damages resulting from the accident.
If you are the victim of a car accident caused by another driver’s negligence, you can pursue a legal claim against them to seek compensation for medical expenses, property damage, lost wages, and other related losses.
Note that the police officer’s opinions on fault are not binding on anyone in a personal injury lawsuit.
Car insurance is mandatory in Texas. The state requires drivers to carry minimum liability coverage to ensure financial responsibility in the event of an accident. Texas’s minimum liability insurance requirements are $30,000 for bodily injury per person, $60,000 for bodily injury per accident involving multiple people, and $25,000 for property damage.
Maintaining adequate car insurance coverage not only fulfills legal requirements but also protects you from potential financial burdens in the event of an accident. It is important to review your policy regularly to ensure it provides sufficient coverage for your needs.
The statute of limitations for car accident lawsuits in Texas is generally two years from the accident date. This time limit as it determines the window of opportunity within which you can file a lawsuit seeking compensation for your losses. Failing to file a lawsuit within the statute of limitations may result in your case being dismissed by the court and the forfeiture of your right to pursue legal action.
Anyone involved in a car accident must understand the basics of reporting a crash, filing a crash report, and navigating the legal landscape in Texas. If you need legal assistance, consulting with a knowledgeable car accident attorney in Houston can significantly improve the outcome of your claim.
Contact the Houston personal injury law firm of Baumgartner Law Firm at (281) 587-1111.
Baumgartner Law Firm
6711 Cypress Creek Pkwy
Houston, TX, 77069
How to Get and Read a Houston Accident Report
Since establishing Baumgartner Law Firm in 1985, Greg Baumgartner has built a reputation as one of Houston’s leading personal injury attorneys, dedicated to representing severely injured victims and families who have lost loved ones due to negligence.
Greg holds two law degrees, a distinction earned by less than 1% of all attorneys, demonstrating his exceptional legal expertise. He is also a prestigious Trial Lawyers College graduate, further enhancing his skills in trial advocacy and litigation.
His relentless commitment to legal excellence and client advocacy has earned him recognition from prestigious organizations, including Super Lawyers, the Top 100 Trial Lawyers, and many others.
With decades of experience, Greg has consistently received top peer reviews. He holds a preeminent rating, a testament to his unwavering dedication to securing justice and maximum compensation for his clients.
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