Being involved in a car accident can bring many hardships, both financially and mentally. However, knowing the right steps to take after being involved in a car accident can help protect your well-being and your legal rights. At Thomas J. Henry, we understand the stress that comes with being in an accident, and we are here to help. In this blog, we will guide you through the necessary steps taken after a car accident to ensure you are gathering the proper evidence while prioritizing your well-being.

Step #1: Remain at the Scene

It is crucial to stay at the scene of the car accident. Leaving the scene is known as a  “hit-and-run” and can lead to fines or imprisonment depending on the severity of the accident. Mandated by Texas law, both parties involved in the accident are required to remain at the scene in order to exchange contact and insurance information. After an accident, you should always ask the other person for their full name, phone number, address, insurance details, driver’s license number, and license plate number. This information is essential for filing insurance claims or pursuing legal action, if necessary. Remember to also take pictures of the accident scene, including the vehicles involved, the damages done, etc. Staying at the scene also helps ensure the safety of both parties. Ensuring your safety should always be your number one priority after a crash. If necessary, call emergency services as soon as possible. 

Step #2: Contact Authorities

Calling the authorities is another crucial step to take to ensure you are building a strong case. It is important to fully cooperate with the police by providing accurate information, sharing your identification and insurance details, and assisting in their investigations. The police will document a narrative describing how the accident happened, based on the officers’ observations and statements from drivers and witnesses. Their report will also include diagrams or sketches of the accident scene showing the position of vehicles before, during, and after the collision. They will assess damages, injuries, any law violations, and gather supporting evidence of the car accident. 

Step #3: Seek Medical Attention

Even if an injury looks like a minor scrape or bruise at first, it is vital that you get your injuries assessed as soon as possible. Car accident injuries can include whiplash, fractures, head injuries, and soft tissue damage that may not be immediately apparent. Car accidents can also be fatal. It is important to seek the expertise of a healthcare professional experienced in treating car accident victims in order to properly document your injuries, as this is essential for both your health and any potential legal claims.

Step #4: Contact an Experience Car Accident Attorney

If you or a loved one has been involved in a car accident, do not wait to reach out to us. At Thomas J. Henry Law, our team of experienced car accident attorneys has successfully represented countless individuals over the past 30 years. We are committed to helping you understand your legal options and providing you with the guidance and representation you need during this challenging time. We handle all negotiations, depositions, mediations, litigation, settlements, court appearances, and everything in between to ensure you get a fair settlement or outcome for your family. With a team of more than 200 experienced attorneys and 350 supporting staff members in offices across San Antonio, Corpus Christi, Austin, Dallas Fort-Worth, and Houston, clients can rest assured that there is always someone working on their claim. Contact us to help you get the relief you need. Your safety and well-being are our top priorities.