Car accidents can happen in an instant—but the physical, emotional, and financial aftermath can last for weeks, months, or even years. Whether you’re dealing with vehicle damage, injuries, or pushback from insurance companies, it’s important to know what steps to take immediately after a crash. At Kelley Wolff Injury Attorneys, we help Austin car accident victims navigate the legal process with clarity and confidence.
Here’s a step-by-step guide on what to do after a car accident in Austin, TX, and how our firm can help protect your rights and secure the compensation you deserve.
Step 1: Check for Injuries and Call 911
Your first priority should always be safety. Check yourself and others for injuries and call 911 right away. Emergency services will dispatch police and medical help if needed. Even if the crash seems minor, it’s essential to file an official accident report.
Step 2: Move to a Safe Location
If you’re able to move, get to a safe area away from traffic. If your car is drivable, pull over to the shoulder. Use hazard lights to alert other drivers.
Step 3: Exchange Information
Collect the following details from all drivers involved:
Full names and contact info
Driver’s license numbers
License plate numbers
Insurance policy numbers and provider names
Also, gather contact info from any witnesses who saw the crash happen.
Step 4: Document the Scene
Use your phone to take photos or video of the accident scene, vehicle damage, visible injuries, traffic signals, road conditions, and anything else that may help establish how the crash occurred.
Step 5: Seek Medical Attention
Even if you feel okay, it’s important to get checked out by a medical professional. Some injuries—like whiplash or internal trauma—may not be immediately noticeable. Delaying treatment can hurt both your health and your injury claim.
Step 6: File a Crash Report with the Austin Police Department
Texas law requires drivers to report accidents involving injury, death, or property damage exceeding $1,000. If police didn’t arrive on the scene, you may need to file a CR-2 Crash Report (also known as a “blue form”).
Step 7: Notify Your Insurance Company
You should notify your insurer of the crash as soon as possible—but be cautious. Don’t give a recorded statement or accept a settlement without speaking to a lawyer first. Insurance adjusters often aim to minimize payouts.
Step 8: Contact an Experienced Car Accident Attorney
Before signing anything or negotiating with insurance companies, consult a personal injury attorney. At Kelley Wolff Injury Attorneys, we’ll evaluate your case, explain your rights, and handle all legal communication so you can focus on healing.
We understand how stressful and overwhelming a car accident can be. That’s why we provide personalized legal support tailored to your situation. When you work with Kelley Wolff Injury Attorneys, you get:
Thorough accident investigation
Clear communication and legal guidance
Negotiation with insurance companies on your behalf
Access to medical and accident reconstruction experts
Aggressive representation in court, if needed
If you’ve been injured in a car accident in Austin, TX, you don’t have to go through it alone. At Kelley Wolff Injury Attorneys, we’re committed to protecting your rights and pursuing the maximum compensation you deserve.
Contact us today for a free consultation and let us help you take the first step toward recovery. We’re proud to serve clients across Austin and Central Texas.
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