Knowing what to do after a car accident can make a big difference during the claim process and in the outcome of your case. Below, we explain the key steps to take after a car accident: focus on safety, report the crash, gather evidence, and contact the insurance company.
Ensure Safety and Seek Medical Care
Your first step after an accident should be to make sure you and everyone in your vehicle are safe. If possible, move your car out of traffic so you are not at risk of another crash. Call 911 and get checked by paramedics. If your injuries are serious, they may take you to the emergency room.
Even if you do not go to the ER, see a doctor as soon as possible. Some injuries do not show up right away, so it is important to be examined and tested. Getting medical care and keeping records of your injuries is also important for your claim.
Report the Accident to Law Enforcement
File a police report with law enforcement after an accident so there is an official record of what happened. Police can write down what they see, draw diagrams, and make notes after talking to you and the other driver. They can also record the date, time, and road conditions, which helps explain the crash.
After the report is ready, you can use the Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT) website to get copies of crash reports. This helps keep good records, and you will also need the report for your lawyer and your insurance claim. Filing a police report can also help prevent problems or pushback with your claim.
File a police report with law enforcement after an accident so there is an official record of what happened.
Exchange Information with the Other Driver
If you are in an accident, you are legally required to make sure the other driver is safe and exchange information, per Texas Transportation Code § 550.023. You must share names, addresses, vehicle registration numbers, and insurance information. Driver’s license information only needs to be shared if asked. If the other driver is injured, you must also help and call for medical care or transportation if needed.
Not following these laws is illegal and can lead to serious consequences. If you are the victim of a hit and run, try to get as many details about the vehicle as you can and give them to law enforcement so they can try to find the driver.
Collect Evidence and Witness Information
To submit a strong claim, you need as much evidence as possible. This helps show that another driver caused your injuries and is at fault for the crash. You should start collecting evidence as soon as possible after the accident, while details are fresh and easier to remember.
Common evidence includes photos and videos of the crash, your injuries, and the scene. You should also keep medical records, repair estimates, pay stubs, the police report, notes, and any other costs or information related to the accident. The more evidence you have, the stronger your case may be.
Notify Your Insurance Company That You Were in an Accident
Most auto insurance policies require you to report any accident within a certain time period. This can vary by policy, so you should check your coverage documents after an accident. Even if you plan to file a claim against the other driver’s insurance, you must still notify your own insurance company.
Once they know about the crash, they can help you and make the claims process smoother with the other driver’s insurer.
Failing to report an accident on time may hurt your ability to file a claim. Insurance companies may see this as not meeting your responsibilities as a driver, and they may use it to deny your claim.
Reach Out to a Car Accident Lawyer
Before submitting your accident claim, reach out to a car accident lawyer. They can provide invaluable support and guidance that protects your rights and the value of your settlement. The lawyers at Attorney Steve Lee can help you understand your options, the strength of your claim, and how to handle the insurance company. They are skilled negotiators who can help you secure maximum compensation.
A lawyer can also prepare you for various factors that could affect the outcome of your claim. For example, there is a two-year statute of limitations on filing claims, so acting early is essential. Additionally, if you shared fault for the accident in some way, then Texas’ comparative negligence laws apply and could reduce your settlement.
There is a two-year statute of limitations on filing claims, so acting early is essential.
Prepare and Submit Your Car Accident Claim
With the help of your lawyer, prepare your accident claim to send to the other driver’s insurance company. Fill out the required forms, include the police report, and submit the evidence you collected.
Insurance adjusters review your documents and investigate the crash while handling your claim. Your lawyer can help guide you and protect you from tactics the insurance company may use to lower your settlement. They can also negotiate for you to help you get fair treatment and payment.
What NOT to Do After Your Car Accident
After a car accident, there are things you should not say to the insurance company. Do not apologize or admit fault. Even if it feels natural, it can hurt your claim. Saying sorry or taking blame may be used against you as proof that you caused the crash, even if you did not.
Insurance companies also look for ways to reduce or deny claims. If you suggest you were at fault, they may use that to argue against paying you. Letting a lawyer speak for you can help prevent statements that could harm your case.