Each year, thousands of drivers in Corpus Christi find themselves dealing with the aftermath of a car accident. In 2023 alone, Corpus Christi recorded over 7,400 crashes, with hundreds involving serious injuries or fatalities, according to TxDOT crash statistics.
In the chaotic moments after a crash, knowing what to do can make all the difference in your physical recovery, legal protection, and financial outcome. At Burkett Law Firm, our Corpus Christi car accident lawyers have helped countless clients navigate these difficult moments, and we want to share a clear, step-by-step guide for what to do after a crash in Corpus Christi.
Check for Injuries and Call 911
The priority after any crash is safety. Check yourself and others for injuries, and if anyone is hurt—even slightly—call 911 immediately. Emergency responders can provide medical assistance, direct traffic if needed, and document the incident.
Moving your vehicle off the roadway, if it’s safe, helps prevent secondary collisions and keeps traffic flowing. Texas law requires drivers to stop at the scene and render aid when necessary (Texas Transportation Code §550.021).
Don’t assume someone else has called for help. Make the call yourself, even for minor accidents, to ensure there’s an official record of the crash. A police report is a crucial document that can significantly enhance your case when dealing with insurance companies or pursuing legal claims.
Stay Calm and Stay at the Scene
It’s natural to feel panicked or overwhelmed after a car accident, but it’s critical that you stay at the scene until you’ve fulfilled your legal obligations. Leaving the scene of an accident involving injury or death is a felony in Texas, and even for property damage, it can result in criminal charges. Stay calm, breathe deeply, and focus on taking one step at a time.
Exchange Information with All Involved Parties
Exchange essential information with the other driver(s). Texas law requires the following:
- Full names and contact information
- Driver’s license numbers
- Vehicle registration details
- Insurance company name and policy number
Remain courteous, but don’t admit fault or make accusations. Anything you say could be used against you later by an insurance adjuster or opposing counsel. Simply gather the required information and let the investigation determine who is at fault.
Document the Scene Thoroughly
While the details are fresh and everything is still in place, use your phone to take photos and videos of:
- Vehicle positions and damage
- Skid marks and debris
- Traffic lights or signs
- Road conditions (wet pavement, potholes, etc.)
- Visible injuries
- License plates
- Witnesses (with permission) and their contact info
This evidence can prove critical in supporting your claim and protecting your legal rights. Don’t rely solely on the police report—take your documentation in case there are discrepancies.
File a Police Report
In Texas, you are required to report any crash resulting in injury, death, or property damage exceeding $1,000. Most accidents will meet at least one of these thresholds. The responding officer will file a CR-3 form (Texas Peace Officer’s Crash Report), which can be requested later online through TxDOT.
This report often includes the officer’s opinion on who was at fault, any citations issued, witness statements, and diagrams of the scene. It’s a cornerstone piece of evidence that your Corpus Christi car crash attorney can use in building your case.
Get Medical Attention—Even If You Feel Fine
Some injuries, like whiplash, internal bleeding, or concussions, don’t always show symptoms immediately. Adrenaline can mask pain, so you might not realize you’re injured until hours or days later. That’s why we always advise accident victims to seek a medical evaluation as soon as possible—even if you don’t think you’re hurt.
Medical records are essential for any personal injury claim. If you wait too long to see a doctor, insurance companies may argue that your injuries weren’t serious or weren’t caused by the accident.
Notify Your Insurance Company Promptly
Most auto insurance policies require policyholders to report accidents promptly—typically within 24 hours. When you contact your insurance company:
- Stick to the facts
- Avoid speculating or accepting blame
- Provide the other driver’s information and police report number
- Mention any injuries or vehicle damage
Even your insurer may look for ways to minimize payouts. We recommend consulting with a car wreck lawyer in Corpus Christi before providing a recorded statement or signing any documents.
Talk to a Car Wreck Lawyer in Corpus Christi
Navigating Texas car accident law on your own can be overwhelming, especially if you’re injured and dealing with mounting bills. Our Corpus Christi car accident law firm is here to help you understand your options and take control of the situation.
An experienced attorney can:
- Investigate the crash and gather evidence
- Work with medical experts to document your injuries
- Handle communication with the insurance companies
- Negotiate a fair settlement or take your case to trial if needed
We don’t get paid unless we recover money for you, so there’s no risk in reaching out to us for a free consultation.
Know Your Rights Under Texas’ At-Fault System
Texas follows a modified comparative fault rule. That means:
- If you are 51% or more at fault for the accident, you can’t recover damages.
- If you are 50% or less at fault, your compensation is reduced by your percentage of fault.
Let’s say you were 20% at fault for a crash, and your damages total $50,000. You would be eligible to recover $40,000. Because insurance companies may try to shift more blame onto you to lower their payout, having a knowledgeable auto accident attorney in Corpus Christi, TX, on your side is crucial.
Be Aware of the Statute of Limitations
In Texas, you have two years from the date of the accident to file a lawsuit for personal injury or property damage (Texas Civil Practice and Remedies Code §16.003). Miss this deadline, and you may lose your chance to recover compensation, no matter how strong your case is.
There are rare exceptions that might extend this time limit, but don’t count on them applying to your case. If you’re unsure how the statute of limitations applies to your situation, contact a Corpus Christi car crash attorney as soon as possible.
Keep Detailed Records
Organization is key. Start a folder or digital drive with everything related to the accident, such as:
- Police reports
- Medical bills and treatment summaries
- Repair estimates and auto shop invoices
- Prescription receipts
- Correspondence with your insurance company
- Letters or emails from the other driver’s insurance company
These documents help your attorney build a strong claim and show the full extent of your damages—financial, physical, and emotional.
Don’t Rush to Settle
It might be tempting to accept a quick settlement, especially if you’re out of work or facing hospital bills. But the first offer from an insurance company is often far below what your case is worth. Once you accept a settlement, you waive your right to seek more compensation, even if new medical issues arise later.
A seasoned auto accident attorney in Corpus Christi, TX, can calculate the true value of your claim, including:
- Future medical expenses
- Lost earning capacity
- Pain and suffering
- Mental anguish
- Property damage
We’ll fight for every dollar you’re entitled to under Texas law.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What should I do immediately after a car accident in Corpus Christi?
Stay at the scene, check for injuries, and call 911. If you’re able, move your vehicle to a safe location, turn on your hazard lights, and exchange contact and insurance information with the other driver. Document the scene with photos and speak to witnesses if possible.
Do I need to file a police report after a minor accident?
Yes. In Texas, you’re required to file a police report if there is injury, death, or if property damage exceeds $1,000. Even in minor crashes, having a police report can help with insurance claims and legal disputes.
Should I see a doctor even if I don’t feel hurt?
Absolutely. Some injuries, like whiplash or concussions, may not show symptoms right away. Seeking medical care immediately also creates documentation that supports any injury claim you might file.
Can I still recover compensation if I was partially at fault?
Yes. Under Texas’s comparative fault rule, you can recover compensation as long as you are not more than 50% at fault. Your recovery will be reduced by the percentage of fault attributed to you.
How long do I have to file a claim after a car accident in Texas?
You generally have two years from the date of the accident to file a personal injury lawsuit. It’s best to act quickly so evidence can be preserved and your claim remains valid.
When should I contact a car wreck lawyer in Corpus Christi?
Contact an attorney as soon as possible—before speaking to insurance adjusters or signing any documents. A Corpus Christi car crash attorney can protect your rights and help you pursue the full compensation you’re entitled to.
Protect Your Future After a Crash
At Burkett Law Firm, we know how stressful life can become after a serious car accident. Medical bills, missed work, and calls from insurance adjusters can quickly pile up. That’s why we’re here—to be your advocates, your advisors, and your legal team.
We’ve built our reputation as a trusted Corpus Christi car accident law firm by standing up to insurance companies and helping injured Texans get the compensation they deserve. If you’ve been in a crash, don’t wait. Contact us today for a complimentary consultation, and let us assist you in taking the first step toward justice and recovery.
