Car Accident Report Basics

It’s no exaggeration to state that an auto accident can be a life-altering event. Beyond the immediate possibility of injury or your car being rendered undrivable, you may find yourself facing costs that exceed your damage coverage.

Chances are you’ll be in at least one accident during your driving career, making it crucial to understand the basics of Texas car accident reports. This guide will cover essential information on accident laws, insurance requirements, fault and negligence rules, and steps to take after an accident.

Motor Vehicle Accident Laws in Texas

The Texas Department of Transportation offers many suggestions on how to avoid accidents, such as slowing down, maintaining a safe distance, and using turn signals.

However, accidents can still happen despite following all the rules. Knowing what to do afterward can significantly impact the outcome.

Texas Laws: Fault and Negligence

Texas uses an at-fault system to determine responsibility for auto accidents. The driver who is more than 50% at fault for the accident is liable for the damages of the other parties involved.

Typically, their insurance policy covers these damages. If the damages exceed the at-fault driver’s insurance coverage, you may need to pursue a personal injury lawsuit for full recovery.

Texas employs the modified comparative negligence doctrine, or proportionate responsibility, to determine the degree of fault for each party.

If you are found to be more than 50% at fault, you cannot recover any damages. If you are less than 50% at fault, your compensation will be reduced by your percentage of fault.

Example: If you’re awarded $20,000 in damages but found to be 25% at fault, your compensation will be reduced by 25%, resulting in a $15,000 settlement.

Texas Laws: Mandatory Liability Auto Insurance

In Texas, you must carry liability auto insurance to cover damages if you are at fault in an accident. The minimum coverage required by law is:

• $30,000 for injury per person
• $60,000 for injury per accident
• $25,000 for property damage per accident

While these are the minimum requirements, higher coverage amounts are recommended. All Texas auto insurance policies offer Personal Injury Protection (PIP) at a minimum of $2,500.

PIP covers medical bills regardless of fault and covers passengers in your vehicle. Opting out of PIP must be done in writing. Always carry proof of insurance.

Texas Laws: Auto Accidents and Crash Reports

Following an accident, your actions can significantly affect how things proceed. Here’s what you need to do:

What To Do After a Car Accident in Texas:

1. Don’t Leave the Scene: Exchange information with the other driver.

2. Check for Injuries: Offer first aid if needed and call 911 for serious injuries.

3. Call Law Enforcement: Required if there is:

• Property damage over $1,000
• Intoxicated driver
• Injury or death
• Uninsured driver
• Hit and run
• Vehicle unable to move

4. Gather Information: Collect names, addresses, insurance details, driver’s license numbers, license plate numbers, and vehicle identification numbers (VINs).

5. Document the Scene: Take photos and get witness statements.

6. Seek Medical Treatment: Keep all medical records and bills.

Texas Car Accident Crash Reports

The Texas peace officer’s crash report (CR-3) is crucial in resolving accident claims. It provides an objective recreation of the crash, detailing:

• Diagrams of vehicle positions
• Points of impact and damage
• Weather and road conditions
• Traffic signals
• Insurance and contact information
• Driver sobriety
• Witness statements

The report, available through the Texas Department of Transportation’s Crash Records Information System (C.R.I.S) site within 10 days, costs $6. It’s necessary for filing insurance claims and personal injury lawsuits.

Texas Car Accident Report Summary

Relevant Texas Automotive Accident Statutes:

• Texas Transportation Code § 550.022: Duty to stop/accident damage to vehicle
• Texas Transportation Code § 550.026: Immediate report of accident
• Texas Transportation Code § 550.041: Investigation by peace officer

When To Report:

• Injury or death
• Property damage over $1,000
• Intoxicated driver
• Uninsured driver
• Hit and run
• Vehicle unable to move

How To Get a Copy of the Crash Report (CR-3):

• Available through the Texas Department of Transportation’s C.R.I.S. Purchase Portal
• Cost: $6

Additional Information

For further details, consult legal resources or speak with a car accident lawyer. Understanding your rights and obligations after an accident can help you navigate the complexities of the legal and insurance processes.

Get an Attorney’s Help

If you were involved in a car accident in Texas and need assistance, consider consulting a Texas car accident lawyer. They can help you understand your case, the amount of compensation available, and navigate the state’s modified comparative negligence laws.