Knowing what to do in the moments following a car accident can protect your safety, your legal rights, and your insurance claim. Whether you’ve been involved in a minor fender bender or a more serious collision, following the proper steps can make the recovery process much smoother.

1. Check for Injuries and Move to Safety

Your first priority is the safety of everyone involved.

If anyone is injured, call 911 immediately and request emergency medical assistance. If the accident is minor and your vehicle can be moved safely, relocate it to the shoulder or another safe location to reduce the risk of additional collisions.

Turn on your hazard lights and remain calm while waiting for first responders if necessary.

2. Call the Police

Texas law requires drivers to report accidents involving injuries, fatalities, or significant property damage.

Even if the accident appears minor, having an official police report can be extremely valuable when filing an insurance claim or resolving disputes about fault.

When officers arrive, provide accurate information but avoid speculating about who caused the accident.

3. Exchange Information

Collect the following information from every driver involved:

• Full name
• Phone number
• Driver’s license number
• Insurance company
• Policy number
• Vehicle make, model, and license plate

If there are witnesses, politely ask for their names and contact information as well.

4. Document the Accident

Your smartphone is one of your best tools after an accident.

Take photographs of:

• Vehicle damage
• License plates
• The accident scene
• Road conditions
• Traffic signs and signals
• Skid marks
• Debris
• Any visible injuries

The more documentation you have, the easier it may be to support your insurance claim.

5. Notify Your Insurance Company

Report the accident to your insurance carrier as soon as possible.

Provide factual information and submit any photos or documentation you’ve collected. Your insurance representative will explain the next steps and help begin the claims process.

If another driver was at fault, their insurance company may also contact you.

6. Choose a Trusted Collision Repair Shop

One of the biggest misconceptions after an accident is that you must use the repair shop recommended by your insurance company.

In Texas, you have the right to choose the collision repair facility you trust.

Selecting an experienced repair center ensures your vehicle receives quality workmanship, proper repairs, and careful attention to detail throughout the restoration process.

7. Have Your Vehicle Thoroughly Inspected

Not all collision damage is immediately visible.

Even relatively minor accidents can affect:

• Frame alignment
• Suspension components
• Steering systems
• Safety sensors
• Bumpers
• Internal structural components

A professional inspection helps identify hidden damage before it becomes a larger problem.

8. Keep All Documentation

Save copies of:

• Police reports
• Insurance correspondence
• Repair estimates
• Rental car receipts
• Medical records (if applicable)
• Photos
• Repair invoices

Keeping organized records can simplify the claims process from start to finish.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

After an accident, avoid these common mistakes:

• Leaving the scene before it’s safe
• Admitting fault at the accident scene
• Forgetting to take photos
• Delaying your insurance claim
• Ignoring minor vehicle damage
• Choosing a repair shop based solely on convenience

Taking a few extra minutes after the accident can help prevent headaches later.