What To Do After a Car Accident in Texas: Step-by-Step Guide

Immediate Steps After a Car Accident in Texas

Being involved in a car accident in Texas can be overwhelming and stressful. Knowing what to do after a car accident in Texas can protect your safety, legal rights, and insurance interests. Whether it's a minor fender-bender or a serious collision, following the right steps immediately after an accident is crucial for Texas drivers.

Texas has specific laws and requirements that differ from other states, so understanding your obligations and rights as a Texas driver is essential. Here's your complete step-by-step guide to handling a car accident in the Lone Star State.

Step 1: Ensure Safety and Call for Help

Your first priority is safety. If your vehicle is drivable and the accident is minor, move your car to the shoulder or side of the road to avoid blocking traffic. Turn on your hazard lights immediately to alert other drivers.

Call 911 if:

• Anyone is injured, even if injuries seem minor
• There's significant property damage
• Vehicles are blocking traffic
• You suspect the other driver is under the influence
• The other driver doesn't have insurance

In Texas, you're legally required to call police if the accident involves injury, death, or property damage exceeding $1,000. When in doubt, it's always better to call for a police report.

Step 2: Document the Accident Scene

While waiting for police (if called), gather as much information as possible. Use your smartphone to take photos of:

• All vehicle damage from multiple angles
• License plates of all vehicles involved
• The overall accident scene, including street signs and traffic signals
• Any skid marks, debris, or road conditions that contributed to the accident
• Injuries (if appropriate and with permission)

If there are witnesses, politely ask for their contact information and a brief statement about what they saw. Witness testimony can be valuable for insurance claims and potential legal proceedings.

Step 3: Exchange Information with Other Drivers

Texas law requires you to provide certain information to other parties involved in the accident. Exchange the following details with all drivers:

• Full names and contact information
• Driver's license numbers
• Insurance company names and policy numbers
• Vehicle make, model, year, and VIN (if accessible)
• License plate numbers

Important: Be polite and factual, but avoid admitting fault or making statements about who caused the accident. Even saying "I'm sorry" can be interpreted as an admission of guilt later.

What If the Other Driver Doesn't Have Insurance?

Texas requires all drivers to carry minimum liability insurance, but unfortunately, some drivers operate vehicles without coverage. If you encounter an uninsured driver, document this fact and contact police immediately. Your own uninsured motorist coverage may help protect you in this situation.

Step 4: File a Police Report When Required

In Texas, you must file a police report within 10 days if the accident resulted in injury, death, or property damage over $1,000. Even for minor accidents, having an official police report can be helpful for insurance claims.

When speaking with the responding officer, stick to the facts about what happened. Avoid speculation or admitting fault. The police report will include the officer's assessment of the accident and may indicate who they believe was at fault.

If police don't respond to the scene, you can file a report online through the Texas Department of Transportation or visit your local police station.

Step 5: Contact Your Insurance Company

Contact your insurance company as soon as possible after the accident, ideally within 24 hours. This applies even if you believe the other driver was at fault. Your insurer needs to know about the accident to protect your interests and begin the claims process.

When calling your insurance company, have the following information ready:

• Your policy number
• Date, time, and location of the accident
• Information about all parties involved
• Police report number (if applicable)
• Photos and documentation from the scene

Understanding Texas's Fault-Based Insurance System

Texas follows a fault-based insurance system, meaning the driver who caused the accident is responsible for paying damages. This differs from no-fault states where each driver's insurance covers their own damages regardless of who caused the accident.

In fault-based systems, the at-fault driver's liability insurance should cover your medical bills, property damage, and other losses. However, having your own comprehensive coverage provides additional protection and can speed up the claims process.

Step 6: Seek Medical Attention

Even if you feel fine immediately after the accident, consider seeing a doctor within a few days. Some injuries, particularly soft tissue injuries like whiplash, may not show symptoms immediately but can cause problems later.

Keep detailed records of all medical treatments, including:

• Doctor visits and examinations
• Diagnostic tests like X-rays or MRIs
• Physical therapy sessions
• Prescription medications
• Time missed from work due to injuries

This documentation will be crucial if you need to file an injury claim or lawsuit later.

Step 7: Handle Vehicle Repairs and Rental Cars

Get repair estimates from reputable shops, preferably those recommended by your insurance company. If the other driver was at fault, their insurance should cover your repair costs. However, you may need to pay your deductible upfront if you're using your own collision coverage.

If your car is undrivable, ask about rental car coverage. Many auto insurance policies include rental reimbursement, which can cover a rental car while yours is being repaired.

Important Texas-Specific Considerations

Statute of Limitations

In Texas, you have two years from the date of the accident to file a personal injury lawsuit. For property damage claims, you have two years as well. However, don't wait - insurance companies prefer claims filed promptly, and evidence can disappear over time.

Comparative Negligence

Texas follows a "modified comparative negligence" rule. This means if you're partially at fault for the accident, your compensation will be reduced by your percentage of fault. However, if you're found to be 51% or more at fault, you cannot recover damages from the other party.

Minimum Insurance Requirements

Texas requires minimum liability coverage of $30,000 per injured person, $60,000 per accident for bodily injury, and $25,000 for property damage. However, these minimums may not be sufficient for serious accidents, which is why many drivers choose higher coverage limits.

When to Consider Legal Help

While many car accidents can be resolved through insurance claims, you may want to consult with an attorney if:

• You suffered serious injuries
• The other driver's insurance company denies your claim
• There's a dispute about who was at fault
• You're being pressured to accept a low settlement
• The other driver was uninsured

Protect Yourself with Proper Coverage

The best way to protect yourself after a car accident is to have adequate insurance coverage before you need it. At Amtex Insurance, we help Texas drivers find comprehensive auto insurance policies that provide peace of mind on the road.

With over 25 years of experience serving Texas communities and relationships with 30+ insurance carriers, we can help you find coverage that fits your needs and budget. Our experienced agents understand Texas insurance laws and can explain your options clearly.

Don't wait until after an accident to discover your coverage isn't adequate. Get a free quote today or visit one of our 85+ Texas locations to review your current policy and ensure you're properly protected on Texas roads.