What to Do Immediately After a Car Crash in South Texas

A car accident can happen in the blink of an eye — whether on a busy highway, a quiet neighborhood street, or a crowded intersection. In that split second, your entire day — and sometimes your life — can change.

In the aftermath, confusion, shock, and pain can make it hard to think clearly. But the steps you take in those first few minutes and hours after a crash can have a lasting impact on your health, financial security, and legal rights.

As personal injury attorneys in South Texas, the team at Crash Law Firm has helped countless crash victims protect their rights and get fair compensation. Here’s what you should do immediately after a car accident to protect yourself.

1. Check for Injuries and Call 911

Your first priority after any crash is safety.

  • Check yourself and passengers for injuries. Even if you feel “okay,” pain can be masked by adrenaline.

  • Call 911 to report the accident. Law enforcement can secure the scene, direct traffic, and ensure emergency medical help arrives.

  • If it’s safe, move vehicles out of traffic. If not, stay in your car with your seatbelt on until help arrives.

  • Do not leave the scene. Even minor accidents should be reported.

2. Document the Scene Thoroughly

Evidence gathered at the crash site can make or break an insurance or legal claim later.

Take photos or videos of:

  • All vehicles involved, including license plates and damage from multiple angles.

  • The point of impact, skid marks, debris, and surrounding roadway.

  • Street signs, traffic signals, weather conditions, or anything that may have contributed to the crash.

  • Injuries to yourself or passengers.

If possible, exchange contact information with the other driver(s) and collect witness information. Witnesses can be key in proving fault later.

3. Wait for Police and Get a Copy of the Report

When law enforcement arrives:

  • Tell the truth but avoid speculation. If you don’t know something, say so.

  • Never admit fault, even casually. Statements like “I didn’t see you” can be twisted against you.

  • Ask how to obtain a copy of the crash report — this document can be critical for insurance and legal claims.

4. Seek Medical Attention — Even If You Feel Fine

Some injuries, like whiplash or internal trauma, may not show symptoms for hours or even days.

  • Visit an ER, urgent care, or your doctor immediately after the crash.

  • Keep detailed medical records, prescriptions, and receipts.

  • Follow your doctor’s treatment plan — missed appointments can weaken your claim.

5. Notify Your Insurance Company (But Be Careful What You Say)

After medical care and police reports, call your insurance company.

  • Stick to facts only — date, time, location, other driver’s info.

  • Avoid guessing or admitting fault.

  • If the other driver’s insurance company calls, don’t give a recorded statement before talking to an attorney.

6. Contact an Experienced Car Accident Lawyer

Even minor crashes can turn into major legal battles. An experienced attorney can:

  • Preserve critical evidence.

  • Deal with insurance companies for you.

  • Ensure your medical bills and damages are fully accounted for.

  • Fight for fair compensation.

At Crash Law Firm, we help South Texans every day — from McAllen to Brownsville — navigate the legal aftermath of car crashes. We don’t get paid unless we win your case.

Conclusion: Protect Your Health and Your Rights

The moments after a crash are chaotic. But knowing what to do can make a tremendous difference in your recovery and your ability to secure compensation.

If you’ve been injured in a car accident, don’t go through it alone. Contact Crash Law Firm for a free consultation. We’ll stand by your side from day one.

📞 Call us today at 956.307.9696 or visit aftermycrash.com