What to Do After a Collision: Tips for Austin Drivers

When you’re in a collision, the first thing you should check for is injuries. Making sure everyone involved is safe is your top priority. At TK Injury Lawyers, we’re here to guide you through every step of the process after an accident to ensure you know your rights and responsibilities.

In a Collision, the First Thing You Should Check for Is:

Your health and the health of those involved. As provided in the Texas Transportation Code Sec. 550.021, a driver is to immediately determine whether anyone is injured and provide aid if possible. Drivers must stop their vehicles at the scene or as close to the scene as practicable, ascertain the condition of other people involved, and remain at the scene until all the duties under the section are complied with. First, check for injuries and assist if someone is hurt. If your car is drivable, carefully move it out of traffic to a secure location. Then, exchange critical details such as names, addresses, phone numbers, driver’s license numbers, insurance information, license plate numbers, and vehicle identification numbers with all parties involved.

Steps to Take Immediately After a Collision

If your vehicle can be safely driven, move it out of traffic to minimize risks to others on the road. According to the City of Austin, after calling 911, you can exchange information, complete a Driver’s Crash Report (CR2), and document the scene thoroughly to ensure compliance with local requirements. Here are the key steps:

Assess You and Your Passengers’ Health

• Check for injuries. If anyone is hurt, call 911 immediately. Always remain calm and assess the situation carefully.
• Avoid moving anyone who is seriously injured unless there is an immediate danger, such as a fire or hazardous conditions.

Move Your Vehicle to Safety (if possible)

• Turn on Your Hazard Lights: This alerts other drivers to exercise caution when approaching and your car signals as a hazard.
• If the accident occurs on a freeway or busy intersection, drive your car carefully onto the shoulder or to a safer location. Moving your vehicle must always be done safely without obstructing traffic or causing other hazards.

Call 911 and Report the Accident

• Provide accurate details: The location of the collision, number of vehicles, and if people are injured.
• Follow the dispatcher’s instructions while waiting for first responders to arrive.

Exchange Information with Other Drivers

• Collect: Names and contact information, driver’s license numbers, vehicle registration, license plate numbers and insurance details.

Document the Scene

• Take photos: Capture damage to all vehicles, license plates, and any visible injuries.
• Record details of the scene, including weather conditions and road signage.
• Obtain information regarding witnesses if available.

Common Mistakes to Avoid After a Collision

Leaving the Scene Prematurely

This is against Texas law and involves serious consequences. Never leave the scene of an accident but stay there to avoid legal issues and to make sure everyone involved gets help.

Failing to Report the Accident to Authorities

Some accidents involve the police, especially when there are injuries in addition to the damage. Always notify the police without hesitation for the sake of legitimacy and documentation of the incident.

Admitting Fault

Leave this determination to investigators and insurance companies. Avoid making statements that suggest liability or fault.

Neglecting to Document the Accident Thoroughly

Evidence is a key component in insurance claims and possible litigation. Proper documentation enhances your case and facilitates reasonable insurance claim settlements.

How to Prevent Collisions While Driving in Austin

Stay Alert

To stay focused, avoid distractions such as using your phone, eating, or changing the radio station while driving.

Follow Traffic Laws

For safety, obey the speed limit, stay behind a safe following distance, and turn signals on while changing lanes.

Be Cautious at Intersections

Care must be taken while driving around Austin’s busy streets, especially during rush hour, when the traffic is heavier and the risks are more significant.

Regular Maintenance

Maintain the vehicle’s brakes, lights, and tires in good condition to reduce risks. Maintenance checks also identify potential issues before they become big problems and cause an unexpected breakdown.

Why You Should Contact an Austin Car Accident Lawyer After a Collision

If you’re in a collision, you should first check for safety and injuries; the legal and insurance complexities that follow can often be overwhelming.  At TK Injury Lawyers, our experienced car accident attorneys, the legal and insurance complexities that follow can often be overwhelming. Call our office today at(512) 910-2000 for expert legal representation tailored to your needs. Free consultation.