An accident happens. Your body’s in shock. Maybe you’re scared. Maybe you’re hurting. You’re trying to think straight, but everything feels like a blur.

That’s exactly when you need to know what to do after a personal injury accident.

Because in those first few hours and days, your actions matter. They protect your health, your legal rights, and your chances of recovering fair compensation for what just happened to you.

And when it’s done right? It can make the difference between a denied claim—or winning the money you need to move forward.

At Kelley Wolff Injury Attorneys, this is our mission. We help injury victims across Austin recover after life turns upside down—whether it’s a car accident, a slip and fall, a dog bite, or a serious workplace accident.

This checklist gives you the full picture—not just a short list—of what to do next. It’s written so you’ll be prepared, even in the middle of a crisis.

Step 1: Seek Medical Attention Immediately

The most common mistake after an injury is trying to “tough it out” or “wait and see.”

Don’t do it.

Even if your injuries seem small, get checked out immediately. Why?

• Some injuries take time to show (brain trauma, back damage, nerve injuries)
  
• Medical records prove your injury happened—without them, your case gets weaker
  
• Insurance companies use delays to claim “you weren’t really hurt”
  

Call 911 if needed.
Go to an ER, urgent care, or your doctor ASAP.
Follow every medical recommendation.

This isn’t just for your case—it’s for your health.

Step 2: Document the Scene

You’d be shocked how many valid cases get lost because people didn’t gather basic proof.

If it’s safe to do so, take photos:

• Your injuries (before bandages or treatment)
  
• Vehicles, roads, debris, weather (for auto accidents)
  
• Floors, lighting, spills, hazards (for slip and fall cases)
  
• Animal and property conditions (for dog bite cases)
  
• Witnesses—get names and phone numbers
  
• The driver’s insurance and license, or property manager details
  

These photos can make or break your personal injury claim in Texas—especially months later when memories fade and property is cleaned up.

Step 3: Report the Incident

If you don’t report the injury, insurance companies will argue it didn’t happen.

So always notify the proper authority:

• Auto accidents: Call Austin police. Get a crash report.
  
• Slip and falls: Notify property owner/manager. Get an incident report.
  
• Dog bites: Contact Austin Animal Services. Get a report.
  
• Workplace injuries: Report to your employer and file a workplace injury form.
  

Ask for a copy of any report. If the other party refuses, email them to create written proof that you made the report.

Step 4: Avoid Speaking to Insurance Companies Without Legal Advice

This is where people lose cases—fast.

Never give a statement to the other party’s insurance without a lawyer.

Why?

• Adjusters will record your call
  
• They’ll try to get you to “admit” fault
  
• They’ll twist innocent words
  
• They’ll offer a low settlement before you know your full medical costs
  

Remember: you are not legally required to speak to their insurance adjuster.
That’s what your personal injury lawyer in Austin TX does for you.

Step 5: Preserve All Evidence

Every single thing connected to your injury matters:

• Medical records and test results
  
• Prescriptions, pharmacy receipts
  
• The clothes and shoes you were wearing—don’t throw them out
  
• Damaged property (helmets, phones, broken glasses, etc.)
  
• Written journal—track pain levels, sleep issues, missed work, stress
  
• Calendar of all appointments and recovery time
  

Your lawyer will build your case from these details—so start saving everything now.

Step 6: Contact a Personal Injury Lawyer in Austin

Don’t wait.

Every day you delay:

• Evidence disappears
  
• Witnesses forget
  
• Insurance companies start building their defense
  
• The 2-year Texas statute of limitations keeps ticking
  

Hiring a local lawyer early can protect your rights from day one.

At Kelley Wolff Injury Attorneys, here’s what we do for you:

• Launch a full investigation
  
• Preserve evidence
  
• File your claim before deadlines
  
• Handle all insurance calls and negotiations
  
• Guide you through every step
  
• Fight for the full compensation you’re owed
  

And with us—you pay nothing unless we win.

17800 Hamilton Pool Road, Suite 203, Austin, TX 78738
(512)-470-6068

Step 7: Know Your Time Limits

Texas law is strict: you have two years from the date of the injury to file most personal injury claims.

Miss that deadline, and your right to compensation is gone.

Some exceptions apply (for minors, or if the injury wasn’t immediately discoverable)—but those are rare.

The earlier you start your case, the stronger it will be.

Why Following This Checklist Helps Your Case

When you take the right steps after an accident:

✅ You protect your health
✅ You create strong evidence
✅ You prevent insurance companies from taking advantage of you
✅ You give your lawyer the tools to fight for your full compensation

Whether you’re dealing with an Uber accident, a multi-vehicle pileup, a truck driver injury, or a tragic wrongful death case—this checklist helps you stay ready.

FAQs: What To Do After a Personal Injury Accident

How fast should I call a lawyer?

Immediately. Calling a lawyer quickly gives you the best chance to preserve evidence, document injuries, and protect your legal rights.

Can I talk to the other driver’s insurance adjuster?

No—politely decline. Anything you say can be twisted and used against you later. Let your lawyer handle all communications.

What if I didn’t take photos at the scene?

That’s okay. Still contact us. Our team can conduct a full investigation, gather available evidence, and build a strong case.

How long do I have to file a claim?

Texas gives you two years from the date of injury to file most claims. Don’t delay—waiting weakens your case significantly.

Does Kelley Wolff Injury Attorneys charge upfront fees?

No. You pay nothing upfront. We work on a contingency fee, meaning you only pay us if we win your case.

Download the Full Personal Injury Checklist

Want to make sure you’re ready?
We’ve created a FREE Personal Injury Case Checklist you can download, print, or keep on your phone—perfect for those critical first steps.

Request your free checklist here

And if you’ve already been injured?

Book a FREE consultation today with Kelley Wolff Injury Attorneys—the trusted personal injury lawyer Austin TX victims turn to when life gets difficult.

We’ll help you know your rights, protect your case, and fight for what you deserve. Let’s start today.