Being in a car crash can be extremely stressful. While no one plans for it, it’s still important to be ready when it happens. It can help to have a checklist or brief reminders on your phone to refer to so you don’t do or say anything (or neglect to do something) that can harm your ability to get the compensation you deserve or cause you to end up paying for a crash that wasn’t your fault.
Of course, if you’re seriously injured, you may not be conscious or in any condition to do anything besides wait for emergency medical services (EMS) professionals to arrive. If you aren’t injured, get your vehicle off the road or to a safe area. Make sure no one else needs emergency help. Take a deep breath and remember to do the following.
Do call 911
Under Texas law, drivers are responsible for reporting any crash that causes injury, death or at least $1,000 in property damage to any one individual within ten days to the Texas Department of Transportation (TDOT) unless law enforcement was at the scene.
It’s always best to call 911 and get the police there to make a report. That can give you more solid evidence for your claim, even if you take your own photos and videos of the scene.
Do get the other driver’s information
Exchange insurance information with the other driver. If they don’t have insurance or won’t give you their information, that’s where having police there can help. Whether you get their insurance information or not, take pictures of the vehicle (particularly the license plate) and the damage to both vehicles.
Don’t apologize
Don’t admit to doing something wrong – even if you did. Anything like, “I didn’t notice the stop sign behind the bushes” or “I just looked at my phone for a second” can be used against you.
Do get a medical evaluation
Even if you decline medical attention or ambulance transportation, see a doctor as soon as possible. That’s crucial first because you could have injuries you’re unaware of. It’s also important to link any injuries to the crash.
Don’t deal with the aftermath alone
There can be a lot of unexpected pitfalls in the aftermath of a crash. It’s always best to get legal guidance immediately rather than talk to the other driver’s insurer or anyone representing them yourself. This can help ensure that you get fair compensation.