What To Do After a Car Accident in Dallas — A Step-by-Step Guide
A wreck is disorienting. Your adrenaline is up, traffic is still moving around you, and a dozen things compete for attention. The goal of this guide is simple: give you a clear, ordered list of what to do — so you don't have to think it through from scratch.
1. Make sure everyone is safe
Check yourself first, then anyone with you. If you can move, look at the other vehicle. If anyone is hurt, call 911 immediately. In Texas, you're required to render aid when it's safe to do so.
2. Get out of traffic — if you can
On Dallas freeways like I-35E, I-30, or US-75, sitting in a live lane is dangerous. If your car can roll and the damage is minor, move it to the shoulder or the next exit. Turn on hazard lights. If the car won't move, stay buckled in until traffic has cleared or first responders arrive.
3. Call 911 (and let them route the right help)
Dallas Police will dispatch officers, EMS, and notify TxDOT for traffic control. Even for fender benders, Texas law requires a police report when there's injury, death, or vehicle damage that prevents normal driving. A report also protects you in insurance disputes later.
4. Exchange information — calmly
You need the other driver's:
- Name, phone, address
- Driver's license number
- License plate
- Insurance carrier and policy number
- Vehicle make, model, year, and color
Don't argue about fault. Don't apologize on the spot — even instinctively. Just exchange info and let insurance and police sort the rest.
5. Document everything
Use your phone to take photos of:
- All vehicles, all angles
- The license plates
- The scene — road, signs, traffic lights, debris
- Any visible injuries
- The other driver's insurance card
If there were witnesses, ask for a name and a phone number before they leave.
6. Decide whether you need a tow
You probably need a tow if any of the following are true:
- The car won't start, won't shift, or won't steer straight
- Fluids are leaking onto the ground
- An airbag deployed
- A wheel is bent, tire is shredded, or suspension is visibly damaged
- Police on scene tell you to get it towed
If you call your own tow company instead of accepting whoever shows up uninvited, you stay in control of where the car goes and what you pay.
7. Choose your tow destination wisely
Generally, your options are:
- A body shop you trust — best if the damage is repairable and you know which shop you want.
- Your home or a safe storage location — fine if you need a few days to file a claim.
- An insurance-approved facility — your carrier may direct you to a specific shop.
Try to avoid letting an unknown tow operator take your car to their lot, because storage fees can pile up fast.
8. Notify your insurance company
Call your insurance as soon as it's safe — usually within 24 hours. Have your photos, the police report number (if available), and the other driver's information ready.
9. See a doctor, even if you feel fine
Whiplash, concussions, and soft-tissue injuries can take a day or two to surface. A simple urgent care visit creates a paper trail that matters if you need to file an injury claim later.
10. Keep records of everything
Open a folder — physical or digital — and put in it every receipt, repair estimate, medical bill, and email related to the accident. Your future self will thank you.
Need a tow in Dallas right now?
Ozcan Towing responds 24/7 across DFW. We work with insurance, we tow to the shop of your choice, and we give you the price up front.
Disclaimer: This article is general information for Dallas drivers, not legal advice. For specific legal or insurance questions, talk to a licensed attorney or your insurance carrier.