A car accident in Houston can happen in seconds — and what you do in the minutes and hours that follow can make or break your personal injury claim. At Maida Law Firm, our Houston car accident lawyers have represented thousands of accident victims since 1993, and we consistently see the same costly mistakes made in those critical first moments. This guide walks you through exactly what to do.
1. Check for Injuries and Call 911
Your safety comes first. Check yourself and all passengers for injuries before anything else. Call 911 immediately — even if the accident appears minor. A police report creates an official, independent record of the crash that is invaluable when filing an insurance claim or pursuing a lawsuit.
2. Move to Safety If Possible
If your vehicle is drivable and it is safe to do so, move it out of active traffic to prevent a secondary collision. Turn on your hazard lights and use road flares or reflective triangles if available.
3. Document Everything at the Scene
Use your smartphone to photograph and video:
- All vehicles from multiple angles, including damage
- License plates of all involved vehicles
- Your visible injuries
- Skid marks, debris fields, and road conditions
- Nearby traffic signs, signals, and intersections
- The other driver’s license, registration, and insurance card
4. Gather Witness Information
If bystanders witnessed the crash, get their names and phone numbers before they leave the scene. Independent witness testimony can corroborate your account and significantly strengthen your case when liability is disputed. Our resource on what to do after an auto accident covers this in further detail.
5. Do Not Admit Fault
Even a casual “I’m sorry” can be used against you by the opposing insurance company. Stick to factual statements when speaking with police. Do not speculate about what caused the accident or assign blame — even to yourself.
6. Seek Medical Attention Within 24–48 Hours
Many serious injuries — including whiplash, traumatic brain injuries, and internal bleeding — do not produce immediate symptoms due to adrenaline. Seeing a doctor promptly creates a medical record directly linking your injuries to the accident. The financial cost of car accidents in Texas makes this step critical to protecting both your health and your claim.
7. Notify Your Insurance Company
Report the accident to your insurer promptly, but keep your statement brief. You are not required to give a recorded statement to the other party’s insurance company before consulting an attorney.
8. Contact a Houston Car Accident Lawyer
Insurance companies move fast to limit their exposure. Having an experienced attorney from day one levels the playing field. At Maida Law Firm, your initial consultation is always free, and you pay nothing unless we win your case.
Texas Statute of Limitations: Do Not Wait
Texas allows two years from the date of the accident to file a personal injury lawsuit. Missing this deadline typically forfeits your right to compensation entirely. Contact us today for a free case evaluation and protect your rights before it is too late.