What to do after a car accident in Houston
A plain-English checklist for the first hours and days after a crash, based on what Texas law asks drivers to do.
- Stop and get safeTexas law requires drivers in a crash to stop at or near the scene. If your car can be moved and no one is seriously hurt, move it out of traffic, turn on your hazards, and stay away from moving lanes.
- Call the police when it's requiredIf anyone is injured or killed, or a vehicle can't be driven safely, Texas law requires you to notify the police right away. Inside Houston city limits that's HPD; outside the city it's usually the Harris County Sheriff's Office, a constable, or another local agency. Calling 911 handles this.
- Help anyone who's hurtDrivers must give reasonable help to anyone injured, including arranging a ride to medical care when it's needed or requested. Don't move someone who may have a neck or back injury unless they're in danger.
- Exchange informationTexas law requires drivers to share their name, address, vehicle registration number and insurance information. Get the other driver's details, and the plate number, make and model of each vehicle.
- Take photosPhotograph all vehicles, the damage, plates, the road, traffic signals, skid marks and any visible injuries. Wide shots that show where things are help as much as close-ups.
- Get witness contactsIf anyone saw the crash, ask for their name and phone number. Witnesses often leave before police arrive.
- Write down the detailsNote the time, location, direction each car was traveling, weather and what happened, while it's fresh. Ask the officer for their name, agency and the report or case number.
- Get checked by a doctorSome injuries don't show symptoms right away. A medical visit protects your health and creates a record of what happened to you.
- Notify your insurance companyMost policies require prompt notice of a crash. Stick to the facts and avoid guessing about fault or injuries.
- Request your crash reportIf police wrote a report, you can buy a copy from TxDOT once it's processed. See our guide: how to get your Texas crash report.
- Keep everything in one placeSave medical bills, repair estimates, rental and towing receipts, and notes from every call with an insurance company.
- Know there are deadlinesTexas has time limits for injury and property claims. If you're thinking about a claim, talk to a licensed attorney early so you know your deadline.
What not to do
- Don't leave the scene before you've exchanged information. Leaving can be a crime in Texas.
- Don't admit fault or apologize in a way that sounds like it. Stick to the facts.
- Don't post about the crash or your injuries on social media.
- Don't sign anything from another driver's insurance company before you understand what it means.
Sources
Texas Transportation Code ch. 550 (duties after a collision, including §550.021, §550.023 and §550.026): statutes.capitol.texas.gov. Crash report purchases: TxDOT CRIS.
Common questions
Do I have to call the police after a minor crash in Houston?
Texas law requires you to notify police immediately if anyone is hurt or killed, or if a vehicle can't be driven safely. For a minor crash with no injuries, you still must stop and exchange information. Many people call anyway so there's an official report.
What information do I have to exchange after a Texas car accident?
Drivers must share their name and address, vehicle registration number and liability insurance information, and show a driver's license if asked.
Should I see a doctor if I feel fine?
It's a good idea. Some injuries, like whiplash or concussions, may not show symptoms right away, and a visit creates a record. This is general information, not medical advice.
Want to talk it through?
We're a free referral service, not a law firm. We'll listen, answer general questions, and if you want, connect you with an attorney who can review your situation. No outcome is promised.