If you get in a car accident in Dallas, Texas, it’s very important to follow the right steps to report the accident. Reporting a car accident not only ensures that you comply with state law, but it also protects your rights and interests, like your auto insurance policy.
Getting in an auto accident sucks! The pressure of trying to resolve the situation and deciding how to continue with your plans for the day can make you anxious in a bad way
That’s why we created this quick rundown of the 5 steps we recommend you follow when reporting an auto accident in Dallas, Texas:
Step 1: Move to a Safe Location
If possible, move your vehicle to the side of the road or a nearby parking lot, away from the flow of traffic. Turn on your hazard lights or place emergency markers out to alert other drivers and prevent more accidents. (This is very important if it’s anytime between 7pm-7am.)
If the accident is minor and no one is injured, you can proceed to step 4. You may want to check with your insurance company to verify whether they require you to have an accident report to file an accident claim.
Step 2: Call 911 (Severe Injuries/Death/Damages > $1,000)
If there are any serious injuries, a death and/or significant damage to any vehicles, call 911 for emergency assistance immediately. By law, you are required to report any accident that results in injury, death, or property damages over $1,000.
Even there aren’t any serious injuries or death, we recommend at least calling the non-emergency number to the local police if there are any significant damages.
(The Dallas Police Department can be reached by dialing 911 for emergencies like a death or injury or (214) 744-4444 for non-emergencies.)
Step 3: File an Accident Report
When you speak to the police tell them how the accident happened. Be honest and cooperative but avoid admitting fault if you have any doubt or making statements that could be used against you later.
(Make sure to ask where you can go in person or online to purchase your accident report. It’s usually anywhere from $5 to $20 in most states.)
Step 4: Gather Information
Assuming that the drivers involved stop, gather as much information as possible about the accident. It can be daunting, but it will pay off.
- Exchange contact and insurance information with the other driver(s) involved.
- Take photos or video of the accident scene, including vehicles, any visible damage, and the surrounding area.
- Take down the names and contact information of any bystanders, if possible.
Step 5: Report the Accident to Your Insurance Company
The final step is to tell your insurance company about the accident – most insurers require you to report the accident to them within 24 to 72 hours of the accident. Give them the details of the accident, including the accident report number and any relevant documentation or evidence you’ve gathered in Step 3.
That’s it! After reporting your accident to your auto insurance company they’ll walk you through their accident claims process step-by-step.
***BONUS***
What do you do if…
The accident happened but I and the other driver(s) can’t agree whose fault it is
Although it seems like sharing your insurance information is like admitting fault, it isn’t.
Your insurer along with the other driver’s insurer determine who is at fault after speaking to both you and te other driver. Even with a police statement, the insurers still ultimately decide who is at fault. It’s best for your time and peace of mind to mutually exchange information instead of trying to debate over who’s at fault.
The other driver left without exchanging information,
If this happens the accident is now considered a hit-and-run incident and a crime.
The law states you should call the police immediately and it’s best to do it at the scene. We still recommend you go through the steps to report the accident but it’s a good idea to wait for the police to arrive to create a police report.
Want more advice? Check out Hit-and-Run Accidents in Texas: What You Need to Know and Do
The other driver insists on calling the police to the scene of a minor accident,
It isn’t required to call the police if vehicle damage appears to be less than $1,000.
But it’s best to just show humility and call the police to scene to take down a report if the other driver insists the police are present before they give any information up.
I want to seek legal counsel from my lawyer or a personal injury attorney,
It’s always a good idea to seek advice from your lawyer before and after the accident claims process, especially if you aren’t sure what to expect.
If you have a lawyer, use their services!
