When Are Crash Reports Required in Texas: Car Accident Report Basics

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.

What to Do After a Car Accident 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:

1. Move to a Safe Location: If the accident occurred on a busy road, move your vehicle to a safe location, such as the side of the road or a parking lot. Turn off your engine and engage the parking brake to prevent any further incidents.
2. Call the Police: If someone is injured or killed or if there is significant property damage, call 911 immediately. Even if the accident is minor, it’s still a good idea to call the police to report it. A law enforcement officer will document the crash scene and create a police accident report.
3. Exchange Information: Exchange your name, address, phone number, and insurance information with the other parties involved in the accident. This information is crucial for filing a car accident claim with your insurance company.
4. Take Photos and Videos: Document the accident scene by taking photos and videos of the vehicles involved, any visible injuries, and property damage. This evidence can be invaluable when filing a claim or if there are disputes about the accident.
5. Seek Medical Attention: If you’re injured, seek medical attention immediately. Even if you don’t think you’re injured, it’s still a good idea to see a doctor to ensure you’re okay. Some injuries may not be immediately apparent.
6. Notify Your Insurance Company: Notify your insurance company as soon as possible to report the accident and start the claims process. Provide them with all the necessary information and documentation.
7. Keep a Record: Keep a record of all correspondence with the other parties involved, including emails, phone calls, and letters. This documentation can be helpful if there are any disputes or legal proceedings.

Reporting 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.

How to File a Car Crash Report in Texas

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:

• The date, time, and location of the accident.
• The names and contact information of each person involved in the accident.
• Vehicle descriptions and license plate numbers.
• Insurance information of the parties involved.
• A description of the accident, including the sequence of events and contributing factors.
• Any injuries sustained or property damage incurred.
• Properly completing Form CR-2 ensures that accurate details of the accident are recorded for future reference and potential legal proceedings.

Can I Get My Accident Report Changed?

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.

Reporting the Accident to Your Car Insurance Company

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 Is a “Fault” State When It Comes to Your Options After a Car Accident

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.

Do I Need Car Insurance in Texas?

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.

Texas Statute of Limitations for Car Accident Lawsuits

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.

Need Help? Call Baumgartner Law Firm for a Free Consultation About Your Car Crash

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

Related Posts:

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Determining Fault in Texas Car Accidents

Factors and Conditions in Texas Crash Reports

How a Traffic Ticket Impacts an Auto Injury Case

Can You Make a Car Accident Claim Without a Houston Crash Report?

Admissibility of Police Officer Opinions in A Crash Report