A plain-English guide from Bridgette

What to Do After a Car Accident in Texas

Just had a wreck? Start here.

What to do at the scene, in the first 24 hours and in the weeks after a Texas car or truck crash, so you protect your health and your claim. Written by Texas car accident attorney Bridgette Williams. Last reviewed: [date].

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Step 1

Step 1: What to do at the scene of a Texas car accident

Stop and check on everyone. Texas law requires drivers to stop and help anyone injured.

Call 911. Report the crash if anyone is hurt or vehicles can’t be driven.

Move to safety if you can do so safely.

Exchange information: name, phone, insurance, license plate. For trucks, also the company name and USDOT number.

Take photos and video of vehicles, the road, traffic signals, skid marks and your injuries.

Get witness names and numbers.

Don’t apologize or guess about fault. Stick to the facts.

Step 2

Step 2: The first 24 hours after a crash

See a doctor, urgent care or the ER — even if you feel okay. Concussions, whiplash and internal injuries can take time to show up, and a gap in treatment is something insurers love to point to.

Write down everything you remember while it’s fresh. Keep the police report number.

Step 3

Step 3: The first week

Request your Texas crash report (CR-3) from TxDOT once it’s available.

Follow every treatment plan and keep all appointments.

Start a folder: bills, receipts, mileage, pay stubs, photos.

Keep a short daily journal of pain and what you can’t do.

Step 4

Step 4: How to deal with the insurance company

Report the crash to your own insurer. If the other driver’s insurer calls, you can be polite and short: “I’m not giving a recorded statement. Please send me your contact details in writing.”

Want us to take those calls? That’s what we’re here for.

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Step 5

Step 5: Mistakes to avoid after a car accident

Posting about the crash

Or anything active, until your case is done.

Signing a release early

Once you sign, you usually can’t ask for more.

Skipping the doctor

Gaps in treatment get used against you.

Waiting too long

Evidence fades, and Texas deadlines are real.

After a truck accident: extra steps

Photograph the truck’s USDOT number and company name, note the trailer number and call a lawyer quickly. Trucking companies send investigators fast, and black-box and logbook data can be overwritten. → Truck accident lawyer

FAQs about what to do after a crash

Do I have to report a car accident to police in Texas?

Yes, if anyone is injured or killed, or a vehicle can’t be safely driven. When in doubt, call 911.

How soon should I see a doctor after a car accident?

Within 24 to 72 hours, even if you feel fine. Some injuries show up later.

How do I get my Texas crash report?

Online from TxDOT, usually about 10 days after the crash, using the date, county and a name or report number.

When should I call a lawyer?

Before you give a recorded statement or sign anything. Evidence is easiest to save in the first days.

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