Injured in a car accident in San Marcos? The experienced attorneys at Carabin Shaw are here to fight for your rights and help you recover the compensation you deserve.
What to Do After a Car Accident in San Marcos, TX
A car accident in San Marcos can be a frightening and confusing experience. Whether it’s a minor fender-bender on Hopkins Street or a major collision on I-35, knowing the right steps to take after a crash can make a significant difference in your health, finances, and legal claim. Here’s a detailed guide on what to do immediately after a car accident in San Marcos, Texas.
1. Ensure Safety First
The safety of all involved parties should be your first priority. If possible, move your vehicle to a safe location off the road to prevent further accidents. Turn on your hazard lights and check yourself and others for injuries. If anyone is hurt, call 911 immediately and request emergency medical services.
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Even if injuries are not immediately visible, it’s wise to get checked by a medical professional as some injuries may not show symptoms right away.
2. Call the Police
Under Texas law, you are required to report any accident that results in injury, death, or significant property damage. In San Marcos, call 911 or the non-emergency line for the San Marcos Police Department. Officers will respond, assess the situation, and file an official crash report. This document becomes a critical piece of evidence in any future legal action or insurance claim.
3. Exchange Information
Gather information from all drivers involved, including:
Full names
Contact details
Driver’s license numbers
Insurance company and policy numbers
Vehicle make, model, and license plate number
If there are witnesses nearby, ask for their names and contact information as well. Their statements may support your version of events.
4. Document the Scene
Use your phone to take photos and videos of the accident scene, including:
Vehicle damage
Skid marks or debris
Traffic signs or signals
Road conditions
Visible injuries
The more visual evidence you can collect, the stronger your case will be when seeking compensation.
5. Seek Medical Attention
Even if you feel fine, you should still visit a doctor or urgent care clinic shortly after the accident. Injuries like whiplash, internal bleeding, or concussions may not appear right away but can worsen over time. Medical records will also serve as proof that your injuries were caused by the accident.
San Marcos has several reputable hospitals and clinics, such as CHRISTUS Santa Rosa Hospital or Live Oak Health Partners, where you can get checked out.
6. Notify Your Insurance Company
Contact your insurance company as soon as possible to report the accident. Be honest and stick to the facts. Do not admit fault or speculate about the cause of the crash. It’s best to provide only basic details and refer more complex questions to your attorney.
7. Do Not Admit Fault
Even if you feel partially responsible for the accident, do not admit fault at the scene. Liability in Texas car accidents is a complex issue and may involve multiple parties. Determining fault should be left to investigators, insurance adjusters, and your lawyer.
Saying something as simple as “I’m sorry” could be misinterpreted as an admission of guilt and used against you in court or during settlement negotiations.
8. Keep a Record of Everything
From the moment the accident happens, start keeping detailed notes and records. Include:
Dates and times of medical visits
Pain levels and symptoms
Missed workdays and lost wages
Vehicle repair costs
Conversations with insurance adjusters
This documentation will be invaluable if you decide to file a personal injury claim.
9. Consider Legal Representation
If you were injured or the accident caused significant property damage, speak with a San Marcos car accident attorney as soon as possible. An experienced lawyer can help you understand your rights, deal with aggressive insurance adjusters, and pursue fair compensation for your injuries and losses.
Carabin Shaw has decades of experience representing injury victims in San Marcos and across Texas. Our team can handle every aspect of your claim while you focus on recovery.
10. Understand Your Legal Options
Texas is a “fault” state, which means that the person responsible for the accident is also responsible for covering damages. This gives you the right to:
File a claim with your insurance company
File a third-party claim with the at-fault driver’s insurer
File a personal injury lawsuit if necessary
An attorney can help determine which route is best for your situation and whether you’re eligible to recover damages such as medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering, and more.
Final Thoughts
A car accident can change your life in an instant. But by taking the right steps after the crash, you can protect your health, strengthen your legal position, and begin the path to recovery. Whether you were hit in a busy San Marcos intersection or rear-ended during a weekend drive, you don’t have to handle it all on your own.
If you’ve been injured in a car accident in San Marcos, contact Carabin Shaw today for a free consultation. We’ll listen to your story, explain your rights, and help you fight for the compensation you deserve — with no upfront fees.
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