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Last Modified on Feb 06, 2026
Many victims who suffer serious bodily injuries often wonder what to do after a car accident in Texas. Individuals may experience shock, alarm, and depression after suffering serious bodily injuries. If you were involved in an automobile accident, then you need to speak to an attorney so you can learn about the options available to you for seeking compensation for your injuries. Following these recommendations can help protect you and potential future claims.
Three Important Steps to Take After a Car Accident
Car crash victims should try to remain calm, focused, and reasonable after the shock of an automobile accident. Focusing on the positive steps you can take will help you feel less victimized and more in control of the outcome.
The first thing you should do after a car accident is focus on your physical health and seek immediate medical treatment if you experience pain. Do not try to avoid medical care or brush off your injuries. Minor injuries that victims suffer during car accidents can cause long-lasting and serious medical conditions.
The second step to take after a car accident is to notify law enforcement and obtain a copy of the police report. Documenting the facts and circumstances of the accident and your injuries will benefit you if you intend to assert any legal claims. Also, record the names of the officers, their badge numbers, and how many individuals responded to the accident scene.
The third action you should take is to exchange important information with the other individual involved in the automobile accident. You need to exchange names, addresses, telephone numbers, email addresses, and insurance information with the other driver. Obtaining driver’s license numbers and license plate numbers will also help you in any future legal matter.
Interacting With Insurance Companies After an Accident
Accident victims should report the incident to their insurance company within forty-eight hours after the accident occurs. However, you should not make any statements to the insurance company representative about fault. Also, do not accept any payment from the other party or their insurance company immediately after the accident.
The other party will also report the accident to your insurance company, so you should not avoid reaching out to your insurer and notifying them of the accident. You will also need to provide any photographs, documents, bills, and recordings regarding the accident. Providing these to the insurance company will make your claim evaluation more efficient.
Lastly, you will need to analyze the options your insurer presents to you regarding automobile repair. Insurance companies often demand that the insured party only go to specific automotive shops to have the property damage associated with the accident repaired. An insurance company may not provide coverage if you have your automobile fixed at a non-approved mechanic or body shop.
Hire a Car Accident Lawyer
Automobile accidents occur instantaneously, and many individuals do not realize how they respond to their injuries until weeks or months after the date of the incident. Therefore, it is recommended that you hire a car accident lawyer to help you seek financial compensation for your injuries. Retaining legal counsel will enable you to protect your legal rights and hold the party that caused the accident accountable.
In 2024, approximately 14,905 serious injury crashes occurred throughout the state of Texas. In Beaumont, approximately one hundred serious vehicle crashes were documented in 2024. Two people die every day on average on roadways in the state of Texas.
FAQs
What Is the Fifty-One Percent Bar Rule in Texas?
The fifty-one percent bar rule in Texas states that if a driver is found to be fifty-one percent or more liable for causing the accident, then that individual cannot recover financial compensation for their injuries. If a person is fifty percent or less responsible for causing the incident, then the claimant’s damages will be reduced by that number. Consulting with a car accident lawyer in Texas can help you learn more about the details regarding the fifty-one percent bar rule.
What Should You Not Say When Making an Insurance Claim?
You should not admit fault when making an insurance claim in Texas. Also, do not apologize to any individual or give any written statements. You should also not say you are physically well or that you did not suffer serious bodily injuries. Do not accept any low settlement offers or state that you do or do not have legal representation. All your responses should be short, direct, and unemotional.
What Should I Do Immediately After a Car Accident?
The things you should do immediately after suffering injuries during a car accident include remaining at the accident, seeking immediate medical care, contacting 911 if you are physically able to do so, and documenting any physical injuries or property damage. Turning on your hazard lights can also reduce the risk of passersby striking your vehicle. Also, you should exchange insurance information and contact information with other drivers involved in the accident.
How Soon After an Accident Do You Have to File an Insurance Claim?
It is recommended that accident victims file an insurance claim within twenty-four to forty-eight hours after the incident. The statute of limitations to file a civil lawsuit for personal injuries is two years from beginning from the date of your injury. However, it is in your interest to notify the insurance company as soon as possible after the accident to pursue your claim to prevent the insurance company from denying compensation you may be entitled to.
Reach Out to a Texas Car Accident Attorney Today to Schedule a Free Consultation
Automobile accidents can cause severe bodily injuries and psychological scars that can affect every area of a victim’s life. When you are seeking answers to questions regarding your legal rights, you should seek out an attorney as soon as possible. You do not have to wait any longer to obtain legal representation.
If you suffered injuries during a car accident in Texas, then contact us today to schedule a free consultation. The attorneys at the Renick Law Firm, PLLC, have the knowledge you can count on from our many years of experience. We will assess the facts of your case and prepare to negotiate with insurance companies and other entities related to your legal claims.
