Fort Worth, TX, is a city constantly on the move, whether it’s the daily grind along I-35W or the late-night rush down Camp Bowie Boulevard. But with over 13,000 crashes reported in 2022 and more than 500 serious injuries, even routine drives can take a dangerous turn. For many, the moments after a collision are a blur of sirens, adrenaline, and uncertainty. And in a city where traffic volume keeps rising, the odds of being involved in a crash are higher than many realize.
What happens in those first hours and days can define the outcome of your case. From documenting injuries to dealing with insurance calls, every action matters. That’s why knowing what to do before filing a car accident claim is essential. Whether dealing with a fender bender or a more serious crash, taking the proper steps early can protect your health, finances, and legal rights. A seasoned Fort Worth car accident lawyer can help—but it all starts with what you do right now.
1. Ensure Safety First
Before anything else, if you are involved in an accident, make sure you are safe. Ensure that you or anyone else who was involved is not hurt. If the vehicles are in a hazardous area, relocate them to a secure location. If that’s not possible, you can activate your hazard lights so that other drivers can see that you are in a precarious situation and avoid getting into further accidents. It is also necessary to stay calm and composed during the situation.
2. Contact Emergency Services
You must then make an emergency services call to report the accident. The police will come, document the scene, and prepare an essential report for your claim. Paramedics will assess and treat wounds and ensure that every part of an individual is safe. Have a doctor examine you for even the most minor injuries, as some signs and symptoms do not appear till later.
3. Gather Essential Information
It is essential to collect relevant information at the scene. Swap contact and insurance information with the other party. Record the make, model, and license plate of any vehicle. If there are witnesses, take their details, too. Photographs of the scene, vehicle damage, and injured parties are also helpful.
4. Document the Scene
Knowing key evidence that can strengthen your case is essential. Document everything you can remember about the accident, including the time of day, date, location, and weather conditions. Explain how this accident happened and what the contributing factors might have been. This information could help you recreate what happened later on.
5. Notify Your Insurance Company
Report to your insurance company right away. Supply them with everything you have on it and any police reports. It is vital to honestly and clearly communicate. Insurance policies usually require timely reporting to afford coverage; therefore, notice is critical.
6. Seek Medical Attention
It is essential to get checked out by a medical professional even if injuries appear minor. Injuries like whiplash or concussions may not present immediate symptoms. If there are any signs of injury, a healthcare professional can document those injuries, which is a crucial record to have for the claim. Comply with all medical advice and document treatments and expenses.
7. Keep a Detailed Record
Having an entire log with everything is beneficial. Record everything said to the insurance companies, health care providers, and any other party involved. You need copies of everything, from medical bills to repair estimates to police reports. This methodical process can help the claims process run more efficiently.
8. Consider Legal Advice
A legal expert can help you understand how the claim process works. They can offer guidance regarding the question of rights and possibly compensation. Legal advice may not be necessary, though it is essential, especially when serious injury and/or liability disputes arise.
To Sum Up
Knowing what to do after a crash gives you a sort of road map for filing a car accident claim. This way, you can make sure they have the information and support they need. Ultimately, safety, documentation, and communication are the three hallmarks of post-accident management. These simple steps allow for a more streamlined claims process, reassuring you during a difficult time.
