Car crashes happen in a blink, but what you do in the minutes and days that follow can shape your health, your finances, and your legal rights for years to come. Below are the five most important actions you—or a loved one on your behalf—should take after a collision in Texas. Keep this guide handy, bookmark it on your phone, and share it with friends and family.

1. Put Safety First and Call 911

  • Check for injuries. If anyone is hurt, ask the dispatcher for EMS.

  • Move to a safe area if vehicles are drivable and it’s safe to do so; otherwise stay put with hazard lights on.

  • Request police. Even if damage seems minor, Texas law (§ 550.061) requires a police report when injuries, deaths, or apparent damage over $1,000 occur. An official crash report is also critical evidence for an injury claim.

Pro tip: Politely insist on an officer’s presence if the other driver suggests you “handle it between yourselves.”

2. Seek Medical Attention—Immediately and Follow‑Up

  • Adrenaline masks pain. Concussions, soft‑tissue injuries, and internal bleeding may not show symptoms for hours or days.

  • Go to the ER, urgent care, or your doctor the same day. Tell the provider you were in a car wreck so your visit is linked to the crash.

  • Keep every appointment. Gaps in treatment give insurers ammunition to argue you weren’t really injured.

Remember: Your health comes first, and early records strengthen your case.

3. Gather Evidence at the Scene (If You Can Do So Safely)

  • Photos & Video – Snap the vehicles, license plates, road conditions, traffic signs, and any visible injuries.

  • Witness Info – Get names, phone numbers, and quick voice memos of what they saw.

  • Exchange Details – Driver’s license, insurance, and registration. Avoid discussing blame.

  • Police Officer’s Card – Note the crash report number for follow‑up.

Evidence fades fast—skid marks disappear, cars are repaired, memories blur. Capture everything you can.

4. Notify Your Insurance—But Choose Your Words Carefully

  • Texas is an at‑fault state. You must promptly report the crash to your carrier, even if the other driver seems 100 % responsible.

  • Stick to the facts. Date, time, location, vehicles involved, and that you’re receiving medical care.

  • Do not give a recorded statement or sign anything from any insurance company (even your own) until you’ve spoken with counsel.

Insurers aim to minimize payouts; we aim to maximize your recovery.

5. Call an Experienced Texas Car‑Wreck Lawyer—Before Evidence Disappears

  • Free consultation. We’ll review police reports, medical records, and insurance policies at no cost.

  • Preservation letters. We immediately notify all parties to preserve dash‑cam footage, black‑box data, and surveillance video.

  • No fee unless we win. You focus on healing; we front the case expenses and get paid only when you do.

Deadline alert: Most Texas personal‑injury claims must be filed within two years of the crash (Tex. Civ. Prac. & Rem. Code § 16.003). Don’t wait until the eve of the statute of limitations.

Why Choose the McKinney Law Firm?

  • Board‑Certified Personal Injury Trial Lawyer led team with decades of combined experience.

  • Local knowledge of San Antonio courts and Hill Country juries.

  • Proven results in six‑ and seven‑figure settlements and verdicts.

Ready to Talk?

Call (210) 832-0932 or click here for a free case review. We’re available 24/7, including nights, weekends, and holidays.