What to Do After a Car Accident in Houston: Step-by-Step Guide
- gladys daniels
- 3 days ago
- 3 min read
1. Immediate Action at the Houston Accident Scene
These steps are critical for safety and protecting your future claim under Texas law:
Check for Injuries & Call 911: Assess yourself and others. Immediately call 911 for emergencies, serious injuries, or if the scene is unsafe.
Move to Safety (If Possible): If the vehicles are operable, move them to the side of the road or shoulder to prevent further accidents in Houston traffic.
Contact Houston Police: Required for Texas accidents resulting in injury, death, or property damage exceeding $1,000.
Exchange Information: Get the other driver's name, address, phone number, vehicle registration, and insurance information (as required by Texas law).
Document Everything: Take photos/videos of vehicle damage, the scene, road conditions, and any visible injuries. Business Law and Civil Litigation
2. Dealing with Law Enforcement & Establishing Fault
Houston Police Department (HPD) and Harris County officers play a vital role in documenting the accident:
The Police Report: Officers will complete the official Texas Peace Officer's Crash Report (CR-3).
Determining Fault: Officers determine fault based on evidence and Texas traffic laws. Be accurate and concise in your statement.
Citations: Officers may issue citations if a Houston traffic violation contributed to the crash.
Accessing the Report: The final report is typically accessible through the Houston PD or the Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT).
3. Medical Care: Documentation is Your Evidence
Your health is the top priority, but your medical records are the foundation of any Texas injury claim:
Hospital Options: Seek immediate care at Houston facilities like Memorial Hermann (TMC) or Houston Methodist, or local urgent care.
Document All Treatment: Keep records of every visit, diagnostic test, prescription, and rehabilitation session.
Why Records Matter: Houston doctors' notes establish the timeline of injury, and treatment records are essential for calculating your damages in a Texas injury claim.
4. Handling Texas Insurance Companies & Claims
The claims process in Texas has specific requirements and pitfalls:
Texas Minimum Liability: Texas requires minimum liability coverage of 30/60/25 (or $30,000/$60,000/$25,000).
Prompt Notice: Report the accident to your own insurer immediately.
Caution with Adjusters: Be cautious with recorded statements or signing documents from the other driver's insurance company.
Common Issues: Be prepared for potential delayed payments, lowball settlement offers, disputed liability, or issues involving uninsured motorists.
5. Texas Legal Deadlines and Houston Court Factors
Legal action has strict time limits and rules specific to Texas:
Statute of Limitations: The deadline to file most personal injury and property damage lawsuits in Texas is 2 years from the date of the accident. Missing this deadline is usually fatal to a case.
Texas Comparative Fault: Texas follows the "51% Bar" rule, if you are found to be 51% or more at fault, you cannot recover any damages.
Houston-Specific Factors: Your case will be heard in Harris County courts, which have specific procedures and local legal precedents that an experienced attorney understands.
6. When to Consult The Daniels Legal Group
Accidents involving serious injury, complexity, or uncooperative insurance companies require professional advocacy.
Seek Legal Help Immediately If:
You sustained injuries requiring ongoing medical care.
Liability for the Houston accident is disputed.
The insurance company is denying, delaying, or offering a low settlement.
The accident involved commercial vehicles (trucks, buses) or rideshares.
A wrongful death has occurred. BOOK ONLINE
Next Steps & Contact for Houston Accident Guidance
If you've been in a Houston car accident, contact The Daniels Legal Group for a confidential case review. We can assess your situation, protect your rights, and provide appropriate guidance or referrals to specialized experts if needed.
Call our Houston office or submit an inquiry through our website.
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