Car Accidents in Texas: What to Do Immediately After a Crash
Car accidents are a leading cause of personal injury claims in Texas. Whether it’s a minor fender bender or a serious crash, knowing what to do immediately after an accident can make a major difference in protecting your health, your legal rights, and your financial recovery. At the Law Office of Silverio Martinez, we help accident victims in Laredo and across Texas navigate the aftermath of car accidents and pursue the compensation they deserve.
Step 1: Check for Injuries and Call 911
Your safety comes first. After a collision, check yourself, passengers, and others involved for injuries. Even if injuries seem minor, call 911. Emergency responders will ensure medical care is provided and create an official accident report — which is a crucial piece of evidence in your case.
Step 2: Move to Safety if Possible
If the vehicles are blocking traffic and can be safely moved, Texas law requires drivers to move them out of the roadway. Turn on hazard lights and set out flares or warning triangles if available.
Step 3: Call Law Enforcement
In Texas, you must report any car accident that results in injury, death, or more than $1,000 in property damage. Police officers will document the scene, interview witnesses, and prepare a crash report that can strengthen your personal injury claim.
Step 4: Gather Evidence at the Scene
If it’s safe to do so, collect as much information as possible:
This evidence can be critical in proving fault and maximizing your recovery.
Step 5: Seek Medical Attention Right Away
Even if you don’t feel hurt, some injuries (like whiplash or internal bleeding) may not show symptoms immediately. Always see a doctor after a crash. Medical records will also play a key role in your personal injury case.
Step 6: Notify Your Insurance Company — But Be Cautious
Report the accident to your insurance company, but avoid giving detailed statements to the other driver’s insurer without legal guidance. Insurance adjusters often try to devalue personal injury claims — see our article on How Insurance Companies Devalue Personal Injury Claims (and What You Can Do About It).
Step 7: Consult a Texas Car Accident Lawyer
Dealing with insurance companies and Texas injury laws can be overwhelming on your own. An experienced attorney can investigate the accident, gather evidence, negotiate with insurers, and fight for the compensation you deserve — including medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering.
Why Choose a Local Laredo Car Accident Attorney?
Hiring a local attorney gives you the advantage of someone who understands the Texas legal system and has experience dealing with local courts, insurers, and accident patterns. At the Law Office of Silverio Martinez, we have decades of experience protecting accident victims in Laredo and throughout South Texas.
Final Thoughts
A car accident can turn your life upside down in seconds. By following the right steps immediately after a crash, you protect your health, strengthen your legal claim, and put yourself in the best position for recovery.
If you or a loved one has been injured in a Texas car accident, don’t wait. Call the Law Office of Silverio Martinez at (956) 724-5047 for a free consultation.