Right After the Accident
- Check for injuries and call 911 if anyone is hurt.
- Move to safety if the vehicles are drivable and it's safe to do so.
- Call the police to file a report, required in Texas for injuries, deaths, or damage over $1,000.
- Exchange information with the other driver: name, contact info, insurance, and license plate.
- Document the scene with photos of vehicle damage, license plates, road conditions, and any visible injuries.
- Get witness information if anyone saw what happened.
Filing Your Claim
- Contact your insurer promptly, most companies have a window for reporting.
- Provide accurate details: what happened, when, and where.
- Submit your documentation, photos, the police report, and witness contacts.
- Get a claim number and the adjuster's contact information for follow-up.
What Happens Next
An adjuster will review the damage, may inspect the vehicle, and determine what's covered under your policy. Processing time varies, but staying responsive and providing complete information upfront tends to speed things along.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Admitting fault at the scene, let the investigation determine that.
- Delaying the report to your insurer.
- Not documenting the scene thoroughly enough.
- Accepting a settlement before understanding the full extent of damage or injury.
