Keeping a clear head and making vital decisions in the aftermath of a car accident is challenging
for many people. If you can plan ahead and determine the best course of action before disaster
strikes, you may be better prepared for the many steps you will need to take after a collision.
The exact path you will need to follow depends on the specifics of your accident, which is why
consulting with a car accident attorney is recommended. However, the following steps are
typically helpful or required after most accidents in Texas.
The Most Important Step After a Car Accident
The most important thing you can do after being involved in a car accident is to seek medical
attention. Even if you don’t have any pain or notice any symptoms, you should always get
medical treatment. Some conditions, like concussions, can take days or weeks to become
symptomatic. Plus, it is common for many injuries to worsen over time and for pain to intensify
as the shock of the accident wears off.
Not only is receiving medical care crucial for your physical health but having medical records
dating from the initial accident is also helpful for your accident claim. Thorough records that
show details like diagnoses, prognoses, treatment plans, and test results are valuable pieces of
evidence.
Other Steps to Take After a Collision
Preparation for your injury claim starts immediately following an accident because there are
important steps that should be taken on the scene to start building your case. If you are able,
consider taking the following steps:
- Take pictures of the scene, including the vehicles and your injuries
- Obtain contact information for eyewitnesses
- Look for security cameras that may have captured the crash
- Take note of any dashboard cameras that may have footage of the collision
- Contact the police to make a report and request emergency medical services
What is Legally Required in Texas After a Car Accident?
Texas law requires that you take certain actions after a collision. All drivers involved in the
accident must stop at the scene because leaving the scene of the accident is considered a hit-
and-run. Other requirements to be aware of include:
Texas Transportation Code Section 550.021
Drivers involved in an accident must determine if anyone else involved in the crash is injured and
requires aid.
Texas Transportation Code Section 550.023
If the accident results in injury, death, or property damage, each driver must give their name,
address, vehicle registration number, and insurance information to the other driver.
Texas Transportation Code Section 550.026
After a collision that results in injury, death, or severe property damage, the driver must notify the
local police department or sheriff’s office.
Contact an Austin Car Accident Attorney
Contacting a lawyer is another important step after a collision because there are seemingly
endless considerations and requirements to keep track of when pursuing compensation for your
injuries. Not only is navigating the legal landscape challenging, but your energy is better spent on
your physical and emotional recovery. You only have a limited amount of time to pursue legal
action after an accident in Texas – typically two years after the date of the accident – so it’s best
to obtain counsel sooner rather than later.
The Austin car accident lawyers at the Law Offices of Nader Irsan are here to help you pursue the
compensation you deserve. Contact us today to schedule a consultation.