There are steps you can take to be prepared BEFORE an accident happens.
- Take time to read your insurance policy and understand it. Know how much coverage your policy provides, such as, person injury protection (PIP).
- See step #5.
- Order or download our FREE book, Buying Car Insurance, to help protect you from irresponsible drivers in Texas.
We hope your driving isn’t interrupted by an accident, but if it is, there are 5 important steps to follow...
Make sure everyone is OK, then call the police
- Move as far off the roadway as possible. Warn oncoming traffic by activating your hazard lights and/or setting flares if you have them.
- It is important to call the police because a police report will provide an official record of the accident. One of the most credible documents an insurer will use to determine fault is a police report.
Gather Information
- Do your best to get as many details of the accident as possible.
- Make sure to keep a pen and paper in your car to take down information.
Exchange the following information with the other driver:
- Name
- Address
- Telephone Number
- Driver’s License Number
- Insurance Company
- Insurance Policy Number
Write down the following information about the car accident:
- Time
- Location of accident (sketch a picture if needed)
- Description of other car (make, model, color, year, license plate number)
- Description of individuals involved in accident (including passengers)
Take pictures
- Of the damaged vehicles
- Of any injuries you sustained.
- Of the other vehicles license plate
Get witness information
- Get a name, address, and phone number for any/all witnesses at the scene.
- Witnesses will be able to back up your story to help prove your insurance claim.
Call your insurance company
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The sooner your insurance company knows about the accident, the sooner they can start working to resolve your claim.
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Do not admit fault
- Don’t admit to any kind of liability on your part. Stick to the facts without expressing any opinion.
- It is not your job to admit fault, it is the job of the insurance investigators to gather all the necessary facts and evidence and then determine liability. The only people you want to talk about the accident are the police and your lawyer.
Keep track of records after your accident
- Keep a written account of any conversations and dealings with the insurance officers, agents, and any other people involved in the claims process.
- Save receipts and bills for any and all expenses relating to your insurance claim, bills for any repair work on the damaged vehicle, and also any medical costs incurred on the treatment of any injuries that are covered by your insurance policy.
Motor vehicle accidents can range from a relatively minor fender bender that causes only minimal property damage to your car, truck, van, or SUV, or they can be life changing events, causing significant loss of time at work, property damage to your vehicle, health issues, or even loss of life. Be prepared and plan ahead. If you do happen to find yourself in an accident, you'll be glad you did.
Have You Been Injured In A Dallas Area Car Accident?
If you've been injured in a Dallas area car accident you should speak with an experienced car accident attorney as soon as possible. Please contact us online or call our Dallas office directly at 214.559.7202. We help clients throughout the Dallas area with all of their car accident needs and look forward to helping you.
