What To Do After a Car Accident That Was Not Your Fault

Being involved in a collision can be incredibly stressful and confusing, especially when the fault lies with another driver. You may be asking yourself what to do after a car accident that was not your fault. Even a minor crash can feel overwhelming in a fast-moving city like Houston, TX. But knowing how to respond can make a real difference in the outcome of your claim and your peace of mind. At Armstrong Lee & Baker LLP, our Houston car accident attorneys have guided many clients through these moments. We’re here to help you take smart, confident steps forward, protect your legal rights, and ensure your voice is heard.

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Steps to take

If you’ve just been in a car crash where the other driver was at fault, remaining calm and taking the appropriate steps to protect yourself legally and physically is crucial. In Houston, TX, these immediate actions can significantly affect how your case is handled. From securing your safety to documenting evidence and getting legal guidance, being prepared matters. For example, if you’re rear-ended at a red light on Westheimer Road, knowing what to do in the next ten minutes could determine whether your claim is approved or delayed. According to Texas law, drivers must stop at the scene and exchange information with the other party involved in the accident, among other responsibilities.

Check for injuries:

Your safety and the well-being of others come first, so begin by checking yourself and your passengers for any injuries. Call 911 immediately to request emergency medical assistance if anyone is seriously hurt. In the moments after a collision, even if adrenaline masks pain, avoid moving if you suspect you’ve been injured unless it’s necessary for safety. If you can, check on others involved and offer assistance only if it is safe. To prevent further danger, turn on your vehicle’s hazard lights and stay visible. Prioritizing immediate safety helps protect everyone on the scene and ensures first responders can assist without additional complications. 

Call the police:

Even if the damage seems minor, you should always call law enforcement. Filing a police report helps document the scene accurately. It’s also useful later when dealing with insurance companies or if legal action is necessary.

• Ask for the officer’s name and badge number.
• Request the police report number and when it will be available.
• Confirm the crash was documented, especially if the other driver disputes fault.

Police involvement often provides an unbiased, third-party account that can be essential when insurance companies try to shift blame.

Exchange information:

Under Texas law, you’re required to exchange basic details with the other party:

• Full name and contact information
• Insurance provider and policy number
• Driver’s license and license plate number
• Make, model, and color of the vehicles

Avoid discussing who was at fault during this exchange.

Keep your communication respectful and limited. Statements like “I’m sorry” can be misinterpreted as an admission of fault, even if you’re simply being polite.

Document the scene:

Evidence from the scene can be critical in proving fault later on. Use your smartphone or a camera to record:

• Vehicle damage from multiple angles.
• Road conditions, traffic signs, and skid marks.
• Injuries, if visible.
• The other driver’s license plate and vehicle.

This documentation becomes invaluable when filing your insurance claim or pursuing compensation. Even the time of day and weather conditions could influence liability.

Get witness information:

If anyone nearby saw the crash, politely ask for their name and contact details.

• Witness statements may back up your version of events.
• Independent accounts can be useful if the other driver contests liability.

A neutral witness can often tip the scales in your favor, especially if a fault is unclear or disputed.

Seek medical attention:

Even if you feel fine, see a doctor as soon as possible. Some injuries, such as whiplash or internal trauma, can appear hours or days later.

• Visiting a medical professional establishes a health record.
• Keep all medical documentation and receipts.
• Follow up with recommended treatments.

Prompt treatment ensures your injuries are properly recorded, strengthening your legal case and speeding up your recovery.

Contact your insurance company:

Notify your insurance provider promptly.

• Stick to the facts and avoid speculating about fault.
• Provide photos, the police report number, and contact information from all parties.
• Document all communications with your insurer.

Accurate and prompt communication prevents claim delays and supports your credibility throughout the process.

Get legal advice:

This is especially important when the accident was not your fault. Legal representation helps protect your rights, negotiates with insurance adjusters, and guides you through the claims process.

Houston personal injury lawyers can help you:

• Estimate the full value of your claim.
• Handle communications with opposing insurance companies.
• Ensure deadlines (such as the Texas statute of limitations) are met.

Consulting a legal team early ensures your case is built on solid evidence and strategy from day one.

Please read:

2025 Texas Car Accident Guide

What Happens if You Have No Insurance But the Other Driver Was at Fault?

Do not admit fault

Avoid apologizing or admitting blame at the scene—even if you believe you were being polite. Casual statements like “I’m sorry” can be misinterpreted and used against you by insurance companies trying to minimize your compensation. Stick to the facts when speaking to police or insurers, and avoid expressing opinions or assumptions about the crash. Protecting your rights by remaining calm and neutral in your language is essential. If you’re unsure what to say in the heat of the moment, it’s perfectly appropriate to respond with statements like:

• “I’m shaken up now and would prefer to wait for my lawyer.”
• “I’m not sure. The investigation will determine the cause.” Let the professionals handle the legal interpretations while you focus on your well-being.

Start Your Recovery: Secure Expert Legal Help Now

If you were injured in a car accident in Houston that wasn’t your fault, don’t try to handle everything on your own. These situations can be complex, and insurance companies may not always have your best interests in mind. You deserve a legal team that listens, responds, and fights for your future.

Let the Houston car accident attorneys at Armstrong Lee & Baker LLP stand by your side. As experienced Houston personal injury lawyers, we’re committed to helping you recover the compensation you deserve. Contact us today for a free consultation, and let us help you take the next step with confidence.

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C.J. Baker

C.J. Baker represents victims with serious injuries and he won’t let any corporation or insurance company stop his clients from getting complete justice. He has won millions of dollars for victims of 18-wheeler crashes, oilfield equipment failures, offshore platform explosions, and defective medical devices. Our lawyers have 25+ years of combined experience.

Get in touch with C.J. Baker now.