At the Scene and Right After
Your first steps protect both your health and your claim.
Do I have to call the police? Yes, if anyone is injured or killed, or a vehicle can’t be driven safely. Texas Transportation Code Chapter 550 requires drivers to stop, give information, and report these crashes. The officer’s crash report becomes key evidence.
What evidence should I collect? Photos of all vehicles, plates, road conditions, traffic signals, and your injuries. Note nearby businesses that may have cameras. Write down what happened while it’s fresh.
Should I go to the doctor if I feel okay? Yes. Whiplash and concussion symptoms can take days to appear, and a gap in treatment gives insurers a reason to doubt your injury.
Car Insurance in Texas
Texas is an at-fault state. The driver who caused the crash, through their liability insurer, pays for the harm.
Do Texas drivers have to carry insurance? Yes. Texas requires minimum liability coverage, but those minimums are often too low to cover a serious injury.
Who pays my medical bills right away? Your own personal injury protection (PIP) coverage, if you have it. Under Insurance Code Chapter 1952, PIP pays medical expenses and up to 80% of lost income regardless of fault. Insurers must offer it, and it applies unless you rejected it in writing.
What if the other driver has no insurance? Uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage on your own policy may pay. Hit-and-run crashes can fall under this coverage too.
Fault and Statements
Fault decides who pays, and insurers start building their version early.
Who decides fault? The insurers first, then a judge or jury if the case is filed. Texas uses modified comparative fault: more than 50% at fault means no recovery. See who is at fault for a Fort Worth car accident.
Can I apologize at the scene? Be polite, but avoid saying “it was my fault.” Statements can be used against you later.
Should I sign medical authorizations the insurer sends? Not without review. Broad forms can give access to years of unrelated records.
Lawsuits and Lawyers
Most claims settle, but a lawsuit is appropriate when the insurer won’t pay fairly.
When should I file a lawsuit? When negotiations stall, fault is denied, or the two-year deadline is near. Filing does not mean trial. Read do I have to go to court after a car accident.
How can a lawyer help? A lawyer investigates, values your claim, deals with adjusters, and takes the case to court if needed. Learn more about what a car accident lawyer does.
About Brad Parker
Fort Worth Car Accident FAQs FAQs
What should I do right after a car accident in Fort Worth?
Check for injuries and call 911. Move to safety if you can, exchange names and insurance information, and photograph the vehicles and scene. Get witness contact details. See a doctor within a day or two even if you feel fine, and talk to a lawyer before giving the other insurer a recorded statement.
Should I give a recorded statement to the other driver's insurance company?
You are not required to, and it is usually wise to wait until you have legal advice. Adjusters ask questions designed to limit fault or downplay injuries. A short, factual report to your own insurer is generally required under your policy, but stick to facts and do not guess.
What happens if I caused the car accident?
Your liability insurer should defend you and pay valid claims up to your limits. If you were only partly at fault, you may still recover from the other driver as long as your share is 50% or less. Report the crash to your insurer promptly and do not admit fault at the scene.
How long do I have to file a car accident lawsuit in Texas?
Generally two years from the date of the crash under CPRC §16.003. Claims involving a city, county, or state vehicle can require written notice within six months or less. Missing the deadline usually ends your right to recover, so it is better to act early.
How much does a car accident lawyer cost?
Parker Law Firm Injury Lawyers handles car accident cases on a contingency fee. You pay nothing upfront and owe no attorney's fees unless we recover money for you. Our fee will never exceed your recovery, and we explain the exact terms in writing before we start.
Visit Our Fort Worth Office
Parker Law Firm Injury Lawyers – Fort Worth Office
209 N Hampton St, Fort Worth, TX 76102
- Monday – Friday 8:00 am – 5:00 pm
- Saturday – Sunday Closed