What to Do After a Car Accident in Dallas
The minutes and days after a car accident are confusing and stressful, and the choices you make affect both your health and any claim you may need to file. Here's a clear, step-by-step guide for what to do after a crash in the Dallas area. (This is general information, not legal advice — for legal questions, talk to a personal injury attorney.)
Step 1: Check for Injuries and Get to Safety
First, make sure you and your passengers are okay. If anyone is injured, call 911 immediately. If the vehicles are drivable and it's safe, move them out of traffic to avoid a second collision. Turn on your hazard lights.
Step 2: Call the Police
Even for what seems like a minor accident, call the police so there's an official crash report. That report is one of the most important documents for any insurance claim, and it creates a neutral record of what happened while details are fresh.
Step 3: Document the Scene
Use your phone to photograph everything — both vehicles and all damage, the position of the cars, license plates, road and weather conditions, and any visible injuries. If there are witnesses, ask for their names and phone numbers. The more you capture now, the less you'll have to reconstruct later.
Step 4: Exchange Information
Get the other driver's name, phone number, driver's license number, license plate, and insurance company and policy number. Share yours as well.
Step 5: Be Careful What You Say
Stay calm and polite, but avoid apologizing or admitting fault at the scene — even casually. Fault is determined later based on evidence, and offhand comments can be used against you. Stick to the facts when you speak with police and insurers.
Step 6: Report the Accident to Your Insurer
Notify your insurance company promptly. Be factual and accurate. If you have Personal Injury Protection (PIP) or MedPay on your policy, this is the coverage that can pay for medical care regardless of who was at fault.
Step 7: Get a Medical Evaluation — Even If You Feel Fine
This is the step people skip the most, and it's one of the most important. Adrenaline can mask injuries like whiplash for hours or days, and by the time symptoms appear, the injury has often worsened. A prompt evaluation protects your health and documents your injuries from the start, which matters if you file a claim. Dr. Corey Skinner at Action Chiropractic has post-doctoral training in injury and trauma care and treats accident injuries every day. See our auto injury care → CLICK HERE​
Step 8: Keep Records of Everything
Hold onto the crash report, photos, medical records, and receipts for any accident-related expenses. Jot down your symptoms and how they change over time. Good records support both a smooth recovery and a stronger claim.
Get Checked at Action Chiropractic
If you've been in a crash anywhere in the Dallas area, don't wait to be evaluated. Many patients pay nothing out of pocket in Texas. See how to pay for car accident care → CLICK HERE
Call Action Chiropractic at (214) 821-9999or request an appointment online.
We're located at 5400 E. Mockingbird Ln., Ste. 214, Dallas, TX 75206.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long do I have to see a doctor after a car accident in Texas?
Texas doesn't set a strict deadline the way some states (like Florida's 14-day rule) do. But the sooner you're evaluated, the better — both for your recovery and because insurers may dispute a claim if there's a long gap between the accident and your first treatment.
Do I have to call the police after a minor accident in Texas?
It's strongly recommended. An official crash report creates a neutral record and is one of the most valuable documents for an insurance claim, even when the accident seems minor.
Should I see a doctor if I feel fine after the accident?
Yes. Many injuries have delayed symptoms that appear hours or days later. A quick evaluation can catch a hidden injury early, before it becomes a chronic problem.
Will seeing a chiropractor affect my insurance claim?
Getting prompt, well-documented care generally strengthens a claim by clearly tying your injuries to the accident. Dr. Skinner documents your treatment thoroughly from the first visit.
Who pays for my medical care after a car accident in Texas?
Depending on your situation, it may be covered by your PIP or MedPay, the at-fault driver's liability insurance, or a letter of protection if you're working with an attorney. Many patients pay nothing out of pocket.