Emergency Reference

WHAT TO DO AFTER
A CAR ACCIDENT

Accidents are stressful and disorienting. Save this page now so you know exactly what to do if it happens to you.

BOOKMARK THIS PAGE — You'll want it when you need it.

EMERGENCY

911

FIREBIRD COLLISION

(817) 885-0096

FREE ESTIMATE

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#1
IMMEDIATE

Check for Injuries

Call 911 if anyone is hurt. Do not move injured people unless there is immediate danger.

Your safety and the safety of others is the only priority in the first moments after a collision. Stay calm. Turn on your hazard lights. If your vehicle is drivable and it is safe to do so, move it out of the flow of traffic.

#2
IMMEDIATE

Call 911

Report the accident to police even if it seems minor. A police report protects you.

In Texas, you are required to report accidents involving injury, death, or damage over $1,000. Even for minor accidents, having an official police report prevents the other party from changing their story later.

#3
AT THE SCENE

Document Everything

Photograph all vehicles, damage, the scene, and all documents before anything moves.

Take photos of: all vehicles involved from multiple angles, close-up shots of all damage, the accident scene including road conditions and traffic signs, the other driver's license, insurance card, and license plate, and any visible injuries.

#4
AT THE SCENE

Exchange Information

Get name, phone, insurance company, policy number, license plate, and driver's license.

Be polite but do not discuss fault. Do not apologize — even a casual 'I'm sorry' can be used against you in a claim. Simply exchange information and let the insurance companies determine fault.

#5
WITHIN 24 HOURS

Notify Your Insurance

Call your insurance company to report the accident, even if you weren't at fault.

Most policies require prompt notification. Have your policy number, the police report number, and the other driver's information ready. Report only the facts — do not speculate about fault or injuries.

#6
WITHIN 24 HOURS

Bring It to Firebird Collision

Call us at (817) 885-0096 or bring your vehicle in for a free estimate.

We will document all damage, work directly with your insurance adjuster, and handle the entire repair process. You have the legal right to choose your own shop in Texas — choose one that works for you.

WHAT NOT TO DO

Do not admit fault or apologize

Do not leave the scene before police arrive

Do not agree to handle it 'off the books'

Do not post about the accident on social media

Do not give a recorded statement without consulting an attorney

Do not accept a settlement before knowing the full extent of damage

Do not let the other driver's insurer pressure you into their shop

Do not ignore symptoms of injury — see a doctor even if you feel fine

BEEN IN AN ACCIDENT? CALL US FIRST.

We'll walk you through the process, handle your insurance company, and get your vehicle repaired right.