TL;DR:
Check for injuries and move to safety.
Call 911 and report to police if required.
Exchange information with other drivers.
Document the scene with photos/videos.
Notify your insurance provider promptly.
Understand Texas at-fault laws.
Seek medical attention, even if you feel fine.
Stay prepared with an emergency kit and driving knowledge.

Accidents can happen when you least expect them, no matter how skilled or careful you are behind the wheel. In a bustling city like Dallas, Texas, where traffic congestion and busy streets are part of daily life, knowing what to do in the aftermath of a road accident is crucial. Whether it’s a minor fender-bender or a more serious collision, having a step-by-step plan can help you stay calm, handle the situation responsibly, and protect your legal rights.

At Get Drivers Ed, we believe that informed drivers are confident drivers. In this blog, we’ll provide a detailed checklist for what to do in the event of a road accident in Dallas, covering everything from ensuring safety to reporting the accident and documenting the scene. By following these steps, you’ll be better prepared to navigate a stressful situation and ensure the best possible outcome.

1.Ensure Safety First

The safety of everyone involved should always be your top priority after an accident.

a. Check for Injuries

Immediately check yourself and any passengers for injuries. If someone is hurt, avoid moving them unless there’s an immediate danger (like a fire or traffic hazard).
Call 911 to report any injuries and request medical assistance.

b. Move to a Safe Location (If Possible)

If the vehicles involved are causing a traffic obstruction and it’s safe to do so, move them to the side of the road.
Turn on your hazard lights to alert other drivers and prevent further accidents.

Tip: If moving the vehicle isn’t possible, stay inside with your seatbelt fastened until help arrives.

2. Contact Law Enforcement

In Texas, it’s a legal requirement to report certain types of accidents to the police.

a. When to Call the Police

If there are injuries or fatalities.
If the damage to any vehicle exceeds $1,000.
If you suspect the other driver is intoxicated, uninsured, or attempting to flee the scene.

b. File a Police Report

When the police arrive, provide accurate details about what happened. Stick to the facts and avoid admitting fault or speculating about the cause of the accident. Request a copy of the police report for your records, as it may be crucial for insurance claims or legal purposes.

Pro Tip: If the police cannot come to the scene, you can file a crash report online or at your local Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT) office.

3. Exchange Information with Other Drivers

Sharing information with the other parties involved in the accident is essential.

What to Collect:

Driver’s Information: Full name, phone number, and address.
License Plate Number: Note down the license plate numbers of all involved vehicles.
Insurance Details: The name of their insurance provider and policy number.
Vehicle Details: Make, model, and color of the other vehicles involved.

Be Cautious:

Avoid sharing sensitive personal details like your Social Security Number.
Stay polite but avoid discussing fault or liability with the other driver.

4. Document the Scene

Accurate documentation of the accident scene can be crucial for insurance claims and legal purposes.

What to Document:

Photos and Videos: Take clear pictures of the damage to all vehicles, the surrounding area, traffic signals, road conditions, and any visible injuries.
Skid Marks and Debris: Photograph any tire marks or debris that may provide evidence of the collision.
Witness Statements: If there are bystanders who witnessed the accident, ask for their contact information and, if possible, a brief statement of what they saw.

Pro Tip: Use your smartphone’s voice recorder to document your recollection of the incident while it’s still fresh in your mind.

5. Notify Your Insurance Company

Promptly reporting the accident to your insurance provider is critical, even if you don’t plan to file a claim.

What to Provide:

A summary of the accident, including the time, location, and other driver’s information.
Photos, videos, and a copy of the police report (if available).

What to Avoid:

Don’t admit fault when speaking to the insurance company. Stick to the facts and let the investigation determine liability.

Pro Tip: If you’re unsure about dealing with insurance providers, consider consulting a legal expert.

6. Understand Texas Laws About Road Accidents

Dallas follows Texas state laws, and it’s important to know your legal obligations as a driver.

Texas Is an At-Fault State

The driver deemed at fault for the accident is responsible for covering damages through their insurance.
Texas requires all drivers to carry a minimum of 30/60/25 liability insurance, which covers $30,000 per person for injuries, $60,000 per accident, and $25,000 for property damage.

Hit-and-Run Consequences

Leaving the scene of an accident is a serious offense in Texas and can result in criminal charges, fines, or even jail time.

7. Seek Medical Attention (Even If You Feel Fine)

Not all injuries are immediately apparent after a collision. Adrenaline can mask pain, and symptoms like whiplash or internal injuries may take hours or even days to appear.

When to See a Doctor:

If you feel any pain, stiffness, or dizziness after the accident.
If there’s visible damage to your vehicle, which could indicate a high-impact collision.

Pro Tip: Keep copies of medical bills and records for insurance claims.

8. Be Prepared for Future Incidents

Accidents can happen to anyone, but being prepared can make a world of difference.

Keep an Emergency Kit in Your Car

Your kit should include:

A first aid kit.
A flashlight and extra batteries.
Reflective warning triangles or flares.
A phone charger or power bank.
A notepad and pen for jotting down details.

Brush Up on Your Driving Knowledge

Staying informed about road safety and defensive driving techniques is key to reducing the risk of accidents. Enroll in Get Drivers Ed’s online driver education course to sharpen your skills and ensure you’re prepared for any situation on the road.

Conclusion: Stay Calm and Take Action

Being involved in a road accident can be stressful, but knowing what to do can make all the difference. By ensuring safety, documenting the scene, reporting the accident to law enforcement and insurance, and staying informed about Texas traffic laws, you can handle the situation responsibly and minimize the impact on your life.

At Get Drivers Ed, we’re here to help you become a confident and prepared driver. From learning defensive driving techniques to understanding what to do after an accident, our online driver education course equips you with the knowledge and skills you need for the road.

Remember, accidents happen—but with the right preparation and mindset, you can handle them like a pro. Stay safe, stay informed, and let Get Drivers Ed be your partner in every step of your driving journey!