In the chaotic moments after a car crash, it’s hard to think clearly. But the actions you take can have a major impact on your health and your ability to recover financially.
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At Joel A. Gordon & Associates, we’ve been helping injured clients across Texas since 1993. We know how disorienting this experience is. That’s why we’ve created this simple, step-by-step Arlington car wreck guide to help you protect yourself.
Let’s walk through exactly what to do after a car accident in Arlington.
Step 1: Prioritize Safety
Your first priority is always safety. If you can, move your vehicle out of traffic to the shoulder or a nearby parking lot. Turn on your hazard lights immediately to warn other drivers.
Before you do anything else, check yourself and your passengers for injuries. Then, if you are able, check on the occupants of the other vehicle. If anyone is hurt, call 911 right away and report the injuries. Don’t try to move someone who is seriously injured unless they are in immediate danger, like from a fire.
Step 2: Report the Accident to the Police
Even if the accident seems minor, you should always call the police. In Texas, you’re required to report any crash that results in injury, death, or apparent property damage of $1,000 or more.
An official police report is a crucial piece of evidence. It documents the facts of the incident impartially. When you call, tell the dispatcher your location, what happened, and if there are any injuries. The responding officer will create a report that will be vital for your insurance claim.
Step 3: Document Everything
This is one of the most important steps after a car accident in Texas. Use your phone to become your own investigator.
- Take photos and videos. Capture the damage to all vehicles from multiple angles. Get pictures of the entire scene, including skid marks, debris, and any relevant traffic signs or signals.
- Exchange information. Get the other driver’s name, address, phone number, driver’s license number, and insurance policy information. Politely take a picture of their insurance card and driver’s license.
- Look for witnesses. If anyone saw what happened, get their name and phone number. Their account can be invaluable.
This documentation will help establish how the accident happened and the extent of the bodily injury and property damage involved.
Step 4: Watch What You Say
Emotions run high after a crash. It’s natural to want to be polite, but you must be very careful with your words. Never admit fault, even if you think you might be partially to blame. Avoid saying things like “I’m so sorry” or “I didn’t see you.” These statements can be legally interpreted as an admission of guilt.
When speaking to the other driver and the police, stick to the facts. Describe what you saw and what happened from your perspective, but do not speculate or accept blame.
Step 5: Seek Medical Attention
Even if you feel fine, you should see a doctor as soon as possible. Adrenaline can mask pain, and serious injuries like whiplash or internal bleeding may not show symptoms for hours or even days.
Getting a medical evaluation creates an official record of any injuries you sustained from the accident. This medical record is essential for connecting your injuries to the crash when you file a claim for bodily injury.
Step 6: Contact a Car Accident Lawyer
Before you give a recorded statement to any insurance company—even your own—it is in your best interest to understand your rights. Insurance adjusters are trained to minimize payouts. That’s where we come in.
An experienced legal team protects you from the start. We handle the communication with the insurance companies, gather evidence, and build a strong case to ensure you’re compensated fairly for your medical bills, lost wages, and property damage. With a nationwide reputation for results, our firm knows how to fight for our clients.
If you’ve been in a wreck, it’s critical to get guidance from an experienced Arlington personal injury lawyer who understands local and state laws.
Conclusion and Call to Action
Let’s quickly recap the steps:
- Ensure Safety
- Call the Police
- Document Everything
- Watch What You Say
- Seek Medical Care
- Consult an Attorney
Navigating the aftermath of a car accident is difficult, but you don’t have to do it alone. At Joel A. Gordon & Associates, our phones are open 24/7 because we know accidents don’t happen on a schedule.
If you or a loved one has been injured in Arlington, call us now for a free, no-obligation consultation. Let our experience and our track record of amazing client reviews give you the peace of mind you deserve.