What to Do Immediately After a Car Accident in Plano, TX

A car accident can leave you overwhelmed, shaken, and unsure of what steps to take next. Whether your crash happens on Spring Creek Parkway, Legacy Drive, or I-75, the moments that follow are critical to your safety, your recovery, and your legal rights.

At Stanley & Associates, PLLC, we help injury victims in Plano and across North Texas deal with the aftermath of car wrecks every single day. If you’ve been in a collision, this guide will walk you through exactly what to do—and what to avoid.

1. Check for Injuries and Call 911

The first priority is making sure everyone is safe. If anyone is injured—even slightly—call 911 immediately. Do not try to move injured people unless there’s an immediate risk, such as a fire or oncoming traffic.

Medical care at the scene is not just important for your health—it also creates documentation that could be crucial to your case.

2. Move to a Safe Area (If You Can)

If your vehicle is drivable and you’re not seriously hurt, move to the shoulder of the road or a nearby parking lot. Turn on your hazard lights to alert other drivers. If moving the vehicle isn't possible, stay inside with your seatbelt fastened until help arrives.

3. Contact Law Enforcement

Even for minor accidents, always call the police. In Texas, you're legally required to report accidents that cause injury, death, or damage over $1,000. Having an officer on the scene ensures an official crash report is filed—something that can be vital in proving fault and liability later on.

4. Exchange Key Information

Collect the following details from all other drivers involved:

Name and contact information
Driver’s license number
License plate number
Insurance provider and policy number
Make, model, and color of all vehicles

If any bystanders witnessed the crash, ask for their names and contact info—they may be important later.

5. Document Everything at the Scene

Use your phone to take photos and videos of:

Vehicle damage from multiple angles
Roadway conditions
Street signs and traffic signals
Any visible injuries
Skid marks or debris

Thorough documentation strengthens your ability to pursue compensation.

6. Get a Medical Evaluation

Even if you feel fine, visit a doctor or urgent care clinic as soon as possible—ideally within 24 hours. Symptoms of injuries like whiplash or concussions can take time to appear, and delaying treatment can harm both your health and your claim.

Keep records of all exams, prescriptions, and follow-up visits.

7. Be Cautious When Talking to Insurance Companies

Insurance adjusters often call within days of a crash. They may seem friendly, but their job is to protect the insurer—not you. Don’t agree to recorded statements or quick settlements before speaking with a personal injury attorney who can protect your rights.

8. Reach Out to Stanley & Associates, PLLC

If you’ve been hurt in a Plano car accident, acting quickly can protect your health and your legal options. At Stanley & Associates, PLLC, we’re committed to standing by your side, helping you understand your rights, and pursuing the recovery you deserve. Our team has helped Texans win millions of dollars in compensation through personalized, attentive representation.

Whether you need advice, answers, or action—we're just a phone call away.

< Older Post

A black and white photo of a row of cars parked next to each other.

Why is my car taking so long to fix?

May 17, 2024

Have you ever been in a serious car accident? If so, you know how frustrating it can be to wait for your car to be fixed. It might seem like the repair shop is taking forever to get the job done, but there are actually several reasons why it can take a long time. By understanding these factors and seeking out the right support, you can get through this difficult time and get back on the road as soon as possible. First of all, if the accident was serious enough, your car might need extensive repairs. This could include replacing major parts like the engine or transmission, which can take a lot of time and effort. Additionally, the repair shop might need to order special parts that aren't readily available, which can add even more time to the process. Another factor that can slow down the repair process is insurance. If you're filing a claim with your insurance company, they'll need to send an adjuster out to assess the damage and determine how much they're willing to pay for repairs. This can take some time, especially if the adjuster is busy or if there are disputes over the amount of damage. Finally, it's important to remember that repair shops are often very busy. They might have a backlog of cars waiting to be fixed, and they need to prioritize their work based on factors like the severity of the damage and the availability of parts. This means that even if your car is a top priority, there might still be delays due to other factors beyond your control. So what can you do if you're stuck waiting for your car to be fixed after a serious accident? One option is to hire a personal injury lawyer. They can help you navigate the insurance claims process and ensure that you're getting the compensation you deserve. If you're interested in learning more, give 469-645-0645 a call today. We help people who have been injured in car accidents and can provide you with the guidance and support you need during this difficult time. Why Choose Stanley & Associates? Over a Decade of Combined Experience Our firm provides its clients with knowledgeable, personalized representation in the following practice areas: Auto Accidents, Work Accidents, Dog Bites, Premises Liability (slip and fall cases), and more. We're passionate about our clients We know that money is a big deciding factor when choosing an attorney, which is why we don't take payments from our clients up-front. We only get paid when YOU get paid!