Texas Transportation Code § 550.023 – Requirements at an Accident Scene
Table of Contents
Statutory Text:
After an accident involving injury, death, or vehicle damage, each driver must:
Provide their:
Name
Address
Vehicle registration number
Insurance information
Driver’s license (if requested)
Render reasonable assistance to any injured person, including:
Arranging transportation for medical treatment if necessary or requested
What Does § 550.023 Require?
Texas law mandates that every driver involved in a crash must:
Stop and remain at the scene (see § 550.021)
Exchange identification and insurance info
Render aid if someone is hurt—even if they caused the crash
Failure to follow these rules may result in:
Criminal charges
Increased civil liability
Denial of insurance coverage
What Qualifies as “Rendering Aid”?
Calling 911
Providing first aid, if able and necessary
Arranging for EMS or hospital transport
Staying at the scene until help arrives
Simply staying in your vehicle or ignoring an injured person may not fulfill this duty.
Example Scenario
Two drivers collide at an intersection. One driver appears hurt but refuses help.
The other driver must still:
Offer assistance
Call 911 if injury is suspected
Provide their license and insurance info
Failing to do so, even if the other party declines help, can lead to a criminal citation and civil fault determination.
Civil Consequences
Failing to render aid can be used as evidence of negligence per se
Often cited in injury lawsuits and insurance disputes
May result in punitive damages in gross negligence cases
Related Statutes
§ 550.021 – Failure to Stop and Render Aid
§ 550.022 – Striking Unattended Vehicle
§ 550.026 – Accident Reporting Requirements
Texas Case Law Interpreting § 550.023
Confirmed that “reasonable assistance” includes calling for help and that failure to do so may meet the threshold for criminal and civil liability.
Frequently Asked Questions About § 550.023
Houston Personal Injury Lawyer - Joel A. Gordon
Yes. Texas law requires all drivers involved to provide identification and insurance details.
You’re still required to offer reasonable aid and notify authorities if someone appears injured.
Calling 911 or arranging transportation to a hospital typically satisfies the requirement.
Yes. Failure to comply with § 550.023 can be used in a civil lawsuit to show negligence or recklessness.
Reinforced that governments are not liable unless they knew of the condition and failed to warn.