What to Do After a Car Crash: A Texas Injury Lawyer’s Guide

What should someone do immediately after a car accident?

Attorney Larry Littleton explained that the very first step after a crash is to check on the safety of passengers. Drivers should determine whether anyone is bleeding, unconscious, or showing signs of serious injury. Once safety inside the vehicle is assessed, the next priority is to check on others involved in the accident. If medical attention is needed, 911 should be called right away.

Larry emphasized that drivers must always remain aware of their surroundings. For example, opening a car door on a busy freeway could trigger another accident. Recognizing ongoing dangers at the scene is crucial before moving forward with any other actions.

Why is taking photos at the accident scene so important?

According to Larry, photographs can be priceless evidence. Before vehicles are moved, accident victims should use their cell phones to take multiple pictures—at least five to ten—from different angles. These images can establish vehicle positioning, the angle of impact, and other details that may prove critical later in an injury case.

How should drivers interact with police officers?

Larry stressed one golden rule: always be polite. Police officers typically separate drivers at the scene and ask questions to determine what happened. Accident victims should answer honestly, but without giving unnecessary details. Aggressively accusing the other driver or showing disrespect toward the officer can hurt a case, as officers are supposed to remain neutral but may form impressions based on behavior.

Should the police always be called after a car crash?

Larry recommended calling the police if the damage is likely to exceed $500. Without an official report, insurance companies may deny that an accident even occurred. While photographs and exchanged information can help, a police report provides stronger documentation.

He also noted that if vehicles are still operable, they should be moved out of active lanes of traffic to avoid further danger. Using common sense, staying calm, and avoiding emotional reactions are essential in these situations.

What if the police do not respond to the accident scene?

In Texas, weather events such as heavy rain or flooding can overwhelm law enforcement, leading officers to prioritize serious crashes involving injuries. If police do not arrive, Larry advised victims to gather photographs, insurance information, and driver’s license details. Then, they should go to a nearby substation to file what is known as a “walk-in report.”

A walk-in report made within 24 hours of the crash serves as valuable evidence that the accident occurred and helps protect the victim’s claim. Larry also suggested using a cell phone’s recording function if the other driver admits fault at the scene, as this type of admission can be very powerful in a case.

Why is seeking prompt medical treatment critical after an accident?

Larry explained that even if injuries seem minor, delaying medical treatment can create serious problems. Insurance companies often argue that victims were not truly hurt if they waited days or weeks before seeing a doctor.

Soft tissue injuries such as whiplash often do not show symptoms immediately, sometimes taking 24 to 72 hours to appear. Early medical intervention can prevent scar tissue from developing and ensures that symptoms are properly documented. Larry advised that even mild stiffness should be checked by a physician, since waiting too long can undermine both recovery and legal claims.

What are common mistakes accident victims make after a crash?

One major mistake Larry often sees is oversharing information. Some people casually talk to tow truck drivers or others at the scene and mention unrelated personal details, such as prior injuries. This type of conversation can be used out of context later in a legal case. Larry recommended keeping communication simple: exchange necessary information, answer the officer’s questions, and avoid unnecessary conversations.

Why should accident victims avoid posting on social media?

Larry warned that social media posts about an accident can devastate a case. Anything shared online is public and may be used by insurance companies or opposing counsel. Even a seemingly harmless post like “I’m okay, but I’ll make them pay” can be used against the injured party.

While social media can sometimes help demonstrate lifestyle changes—such as a person no longer being able to bowl or play sports—it should never include details about the accident itself. Larry’s advice was clear: never post about a crash on social media. Instead, discuss the situation only with close family or an attorney.

Final thoughts from Larry Littleton

Larry concluded by reminding accident victims to stay calm, prioritize safety, and avoid actions that could damage their claims. From calling 911 and taking photos to seeking prompt medical care and staying off social media, these steps can make a significant difference in protecting both health and legal rights.