Getting hit by a car is painful and debilitating. It can lead to severe suffering and extremely high costs. You may not be sure what to do next. By following certain legal steps, you can work with an attorney that helps you seek the compensation you deserve. Your next steps can greatly impact your claim, so it is important to do what you can to protect your best interests.
At Griffin Law Group, LLC, our dedicated Texas car accident lawyers are here to help. Get in touch with us today to learn more.
Step 1: Call 911 and Report the Accident
The State of Texas requires every driver to report an accident if it involved death, injury, or significant property damage. You should call 911, and then:
- Police will respond and create an official crash report
- Emergency medical services can evaluate injuries
- The scene is documented for safety and legal purposes
The police report is very important evidence. It will include what the officer saw, any statements from witnesses, and if there were any traffic citations issued.
Step 2: Get Medical Attention Immediately
Even if you feel “fine,” you should get checked by a medical professional as soon as possible. Many injuries, such as concussions, internal bleeding, and soft-tissue damage, may not show symptoms right away.
Prompt medical care:
- Protects your health
- Creates a medical record linking your injuries to the crash
- Prevents insurance companies from arguing that you were not seriously hurt
Follow all treatment recommendations and attend follow-up appointments.
Step 3: Gather Evidence at the Scene
If your injuries don’t make you unable to do so, collect evidence. Useful evidence includes:
- Photos of vehicle damage, skid marks, traffic signals, and road conditions
- Photos of your injuries
- Driver’s license and insurance information from the at-fault driver
- Names and contact information of witnesses
- The responding officer’s name and badge number
Step 4: Notify Your Insurance Company
Texas is an at-fault state. This means that the driver who caused the crash is supposed to be responsible for your damages. You still need to let your insurance company know promptly though. Many policies require that you report it so they can work with the other driver’s insurer or prepare your claim.
When speaking with insurance representatives:
- Provide basic facts only
- Do not admit fault
- Do not speculate about injuries
- Decline recorded statements until you have legal guidance
Insurance adjusters may try to minimize your injuries or shift blame. Keeping communication limited protects your claim.
Step 5: Document Your Injuries and Recovery
Keep a detailed record of:
- Medical bills and treatment notes
- Prescription and over-the-counter medication costs
- Lost wages or missed work
- Pain levels, mobility issues, and emotional distress
- Transportation costs for medical appointments
Photos of injuries taken over time can also show how your condition has progressed.
Step 6: Request the Texas Crash Report
The Texas Peace Officer’s Crash Report (CR-3) is typically available within 7–10 days.
This report often includes:
- Officer’s assessment of fault
- Diagrams of the crash
- Witness statements
- Citations issued to the driver
Step 7: Consult a Texas Personal Injury Lawyer
Car-pedestrian and car-cyclist collisions often involve severe injuries, disputed liability, and aggressive insurance tactics. An experienced Texas personal injury lawyer can:
- Investigate the crash
- Preserve evidence
- Handle insurance communications
- Calculate damages
- Negotiate a settlement
- File a lawsuit if necessary
Work With a Texas Car Accident Lawyer Right Away
Contacting an attorney right away is critical to protecting your rights. While you legally have some time to file a claim, waiting could be the loss of precious evidence you need to prove your claim. We know how to help from the beginning to the end of your case.
Consult a Texas personal injury attorney at Griffin Law Group, LLC for help. Contact us today for a consultation of your case.