When you live in a city like San Antonio, car accidents are a reality you might face at some point. San Antonio is one of the largest cities in Texas, and with a population growing past 1.5 million, the roads are constantly busy.
The worst part is that some drivers don’t carry enough insurance, or any at all, and it’s easy to see how a seemingly small accident can turn into a big legal and financial headache. That’s why understanding the dos and don’ts after a car accident is critical.
If you’re dealing with the aftermath of a crash and don’t know where to turn, a San Antonio accident attorney can help you figure out your options and fight for what’s fair. But even before you call one, here’s exactly what you need to know and do, from the very moment the accident happens.
The Smartest Moves You Can Make After the Crash
Do these:
- Get medical attention right away, even if you think you’re okay. It protects your health and your case.
- Exchange full contact and insurance info with the other driver. Name, phone, address, insurance policy number, license plate.
- Take pictures from all angles, of everything, even small details like glass on the road or tire marks.
- Get the names and numbers of witnesses. They may never talk to the police unless you ask them directly.
- Call the police and make sure an accident report is written. Ask for the report number before they leave.
Avoid these:
- Don’t admit fault or say “I’m sorry” even casually.
- Don’t agree to move your car unless it’s dangerous to leave it where it is.
- Don’t leave before the police arrive, unless you’re being taken away in an ambulance.
- Don’t talk to the other driver’s insurance company until you’ve spoken to a lawyer.
- Don’t accept the first settlement offer. It’s usually way less than what you actually need.
Why Every Mistake Matters (Even the Small Ones)
A lot of people don’t realize: even small mistakes after a crash can mess up your chance at getting compensated. Saying the wrong thing, waiting too long to go to the doctor, or trusting the insurance company to “do the right thing” can cost you thousands, sometimes tens of thousands.
Let’s say you accept a quick settlement because you think it’ll help you move on. A week later, your back pain gets worse. You go to a doctor and find out you need physical therapy or even surgery. But the check you cashed? That was it. You can’t ask for more.
Or let’s say you tell the insurance adjuster that you’re not really hurt. You didn’t mean to lie, you just didn’t feel anything yet. But once that’s on record, it’s nearly impossible to argue otherwise. The window to do this right is small. That’s why you want to get help from someone who’s done this before and knows how to handle it the right way from day one.
Conclusion
When you’re dealing with a car accident, you’re not expected to know every detail of how the law works or how to deal with insurance games. But what you do need to know is what actions help you, and what actions hurt you. If you get that part right, you’re already ahead of the game.
