What to Do After a Car Accident in Texas: A Step-by-Step Guide
No one expects to be in a car accident, but knowing exactly what to do when it happens can protect you legally and financially. For Collin County drivers, understanding the proper steps after a collision ensures you preserve your rights and maximize your insurance coverage.
Texas averages over 550,000 car accidents annually, with many occurring on busy highways like US-75 and the Dallas North Tollway that run through Collin County. Being prepared with the right knowledge can make all the difference when you’re shaken up and unsure what to do next.
Step 1: Ensure Safety First
Your immediate priority is safety. If possible and safe to do so, move your vehicle out of traffic lanes to the shoulder or a nearby parking lot. Texas law requires you to move vehicles from the roadway after minor accidents if the cars are still operable.
Turn on your hazard lights and set up flares or reflective triangles if you have them, especially on high-speed roads. If anyone appears injured, call 911 immediately. Even minor injuries can become serious, so err on the side of caution.
Never leave the scene of an accident, even if it seems minor. Leaving can result in criminal charges and will complicate your insurance claim significantly.
Step 2: Call Law Enforcement
Texas law requires you to report accidents that result in injury, death, or property damage exceeding $1,000. Given modern repair costs, almost any collision meets this threshold.
Request a police report even for fender-benders. Officers will document the scene, gather witness statements, and create an official record that proves invaluable during the claims process. Collin County cities like Plano, Frisco, McKinney, and Allen all have responsive police departments that handle accident reports professionally.
While waiting for police, avoid discussing fault or apologizing—these statements can be used against you later. Simply exchange information and document the scene.
Step 3: Document Everything
Your smartphone becomes your most valuable tool after an accident. Capture comprehensive documentation:
Photos to take:
- Damage to all vehicles involved (multiple angles)
- License plates of all vehicles
- The overall accident scene showing road conditions and positions
- Traffic signs, signals, and road markings nearby
- Any visible injuries
- Weather and lighting conditions
Information to collect:
- Names and contact information for all drivers and passengers
- Insurance company names and policy numbers
- Driver’s license numbers
- Vehicle makes, models, and years
- Contact information for any witnesses
Write down the accident’s time, date, and exact location while details are fresh.
Step 4: Seek Medical Attention
Even if you feel fine at the scene, some injuries don’t manifest symptoms for hours or days. Whiplash, concussions, and internal injuries often have delayed onset.
Visit your doctor or an urgent care facility within 24-48 hours of any accident. This creates a medical record linking any injuries to the collision—critical for personal injury protection (PIP) claims and potential lawsuits.
Keep all medical records, receipts, and documentation organized. Your insurance company will need this information to process claims.
Step 5: Notify Your Insurance Company
Contact your insurance agent as soon as possible after the accident. Most policies require prompt notification of accidents, regardless of who’s at fault.
When calling your insurer, have ready:
- The police report number
- Photos and documentation you collected
- The other driver’s insurance information
- A factual account of what happened
Be honest and factual, but avoid speculating about fault or the extent of your injuries until you’ve seen a doctor. Your agent will guide you through the specific claims process for your policy.
Step 6: Understand Your Coverage Options
Texas requires minimum liability coverage of 30/60/25, but this only covers damage you cause to others. Your own vehicle repairs depend on your policy’s collision and comprehensive coverage.
Key coverages that may apply:
- Collision coverage pays for your vehicle repairs regardless of fault
- Personal injury protection (PIP) covers your medical expenses and lost wages
- Uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage protects you when the at-fault driver lacks adequate insurance
- Medical payments coverage helps with immediate medical expenses
Understanding what your policy covers before an accident happens helps you know what to expect during the claims process.
Protect Yourself Before an Accident Happens
The best time to review your auto insurance is before you need it. Many Collin County drivers carry only minimum coverage, leaving them financially vulnerable after serious accidents.
Consider whether your current coverage adequately protects your assets and family. An independent insurance agent can review your policy and recommend adjustments based on your specific situation.
Ready to review your auto insurance coverage? Contact Collin County Insurance Group for a free policy review and ensure you’re properly protected before the unexpected happens.