After a car accident in Houston, take these steps: (1) stop and move to safety, (2) call 911 and report injuries, (3) let police document the scene and file a crash report, (4) photograph the vehicles, damage, and scene, (5) exchange information without admitting fault, (6) get medical care the same day, and (7) be cautious before giving any recorded statement to the other driver’s insurance company.
1. Stop, get to safety, and check for injuries
Texas law requires drivers to stop at the scene of an accident. If the vehicles are drivable and blocking traffic on a busy corridor like the 610 Loop or I-45, move them to the shoulder if you safely can. Turn on hazard lights. Check yourself and passengers for injuries before anything else — property can be replaced.
2. Call 911 — and understand when Texas requires a report
Call 911 for any crash involving injury, death, or significant property damage. In Texas, law enforcement must be notified of accidents that cause injury, death, or property damage that makes a vehicle unsafe to drive. Even for a “minor” wreck, a police response creates an official record that protects you later.
3. Let the police document the scene
When officers arrive, give them the facts calmly and accurately — but do not admit fault or guess about what happened. The responding officer completes a Texas Peace Officer’s Crash Report (Form CR-3), which becomes a central piece of evidence. Ask how and where to obtain a copy (you can request it later from the Texas Department of Transportation).
4. Document everything yourself
Your phone is one of your most powerful tools at the scene. Photograph and video:
- All vehicles involved, from multiple angles, showing damage and final positions
- License plates, the other driver’s insurance card and driver’s license
- The roadway, skid marks, traffic signals or signs, and debris
- Visible injuries and the overall scene
- Names and phone numbers of any witnesses
5. Exchange information — carefully
Trade names, contact details, driver’s license numbers, insurance information, and vehicle details. Keep the conversation factual and brief. Avoid apologizing or saying things like “I’m fine” or “I didn’t see you” — statements made in the moment can be twisted into admissions later.
6. See a doctor the same day — even if you feel okay
Adrenaline masks pain. Injuries like whiplash, concussions, and internal or spinal injuries often don’t show symptoms for hours or days. Getting prompt medical care protects your health and creates the medical record that ties your injuries to the crash. Gaps in treatment are one of the first things insurers use to reduce or deny a claim.
7. Be careful with the insurance companies
Report the accident to your own insurer as your policy requires. But be cautious with the other driver’s insurance company: in Texas you are generally not required to give the at-fault driver’s insurer a recorded statement, and doing so early — before you understand your injuries — can hurt your claim. Avoid accepting a fast settlement offer before you know the full extent of your injuries.
What NOT to do after a Houston car accident
- Don’t leave the scene of an injury accident — that can be a crime.
- Don’t admit fault or apologize.
- Don’t say you’re uninjured or sign anything from the other insurer without understanding it.
- Don’t post about the accident on social media.
- Don’t wait to seek medical care.
Why the first days matter for your claim
Texas is an at-fault state, which means the driver who caused the crash (and their insurer) is responsible for the resulting damages. Texas also follows modified comparative negligence: your recovery is reduced by your percentage of fault, and if you’re found more than 50% at fault, you recover nothing. Insurers know this, so they work from day one to shift blame onto you. Strong documentation, prompt medical care, and caution with recorded statements are how you protect your position.
How long do you have to act?
In Texas, the general deadline (statute of limitations) to file a car accident injury lawsuit is two years from the date of the crash. Waiting can mean lost evidence and faded witness memories, so it’s best to understand your rights early. Learn more about the Texas statute of limitations →
Frequently asked questions
Do I have to call the police after a minor accident in Houston?
If anyone is injured or there’s significant vehicle damage, yes — call 911. Even for minor crashes, a police report creates an objective record that helps if a dispute or hidden injury emerges later.
Should I go to the ER or urgent care after a crash?
For severe symptoms (head injury, chest pain, numbness, heavy bleeding), go to the ER or call 911. For less severe pain, urgent care or your doctor the same day is important — just don’t skip medical evaluation.
The other driver asked to settle without insurance. Should I?
Be very cautious. Injuries and vehicle damage are often worse than they first appear. Once you accept cash and sign a release, you generally can’t reopen the claim.
Related guides:
How much is my case worth? ·
Dealing with insurance adjusters ·
How to get your Texas crash report ·
What if I was partly at fault?