What to Do After a Car Accident in San Antonio
Getting into an accident can be overwhelming — especially when you’re unsure what to do next. Acting quickly and calmly can help keep everyone safe, comply with Texas law, and make your insurance claim easier.
The team at Vic Vaughan Collision Center in San Antonio created this step-by-step guide to help you handle the situation confidently, whether you caused the accident or not.
Remember: you always have the right to choose where your vehicle is repaired. At Vic Vaughan Collision Center, our certified technicians use advanced equipment and manufacturer-approved parts to restore your vehicle’s performance, safety, and appearance — so you can drive with peace of mind again.
Step 1: Check for Injuries
First, check yourself for any injuries. If you’re hurt, call 911 immediately or ask someone nearby to do so. Try not to move if you feel pain or dizziness — wait for emergency responders to arrive.
Step 2: Check on Your Passengers
If it’s safe to move, check on everyone else in your vehicle. Call for help if anyone is injured. Your health and the safety of your passengers come first.
Step 3: Move to a Safe Spot
If your car is drivable, move it to a safe location, like the shoulder or a nearby parking lot. If it’s not, turn on your hazard lights and stay out of traffic. Safety is the priority until help arrives.
Step 4: Call 911
In Texas, accidents that result in injury, death, or property damage must be reported. Even minor fender benders should be documented by law enforcement — their report will be valuable when filing your insurance claim.
If officers can’t come to the scene, visit your nearest San Antonio Police Department substation later to file an official report. Your insurance company will likely request a copy.
Step 5: Wait Safely for Help
Turn off your car, keep the hazard lights flashing, and stay nearby — but at a safe distance from traffic. If you have an emergency kit, set up flares or reflective triangles to alert oncoming drivers.
Step 6: Exchange Information
Once everyone is safe and help is on the way, exchange these details with the other driver(s):
- Full name and contact information
- Insurance company and policy number
- Driver’s license and license plate numbers
- Vehicle make, model, and color
- Exact location of the accident
Avoid discussing fault — let the insurance adjusters and police report determine that.
Step 7: Document the Scene
Gather as much information as possible to make your insurance claim smoother:
- Get officer details: names and badge numbers.
- Ask about the police report: when and how to get a copy.
- Take photos: show all damage, vehicle positions, and surroundings.
- Collect contact info: of all drivers, passengers, and witnesses.
- Record witness statements, if possible.
Keep these details in your phone or a printed accident checklist in your glove box.
Important: No one — not the police, not your insurance, not a tow company — can decide where your vehicle is repaired. You have the legal right to choose your collision repair shop.
Step 8: Contact Vic Vaughan Collision Center
After ensuring everyone’s safety and completing the necessary reports, call Vic Vaughan Collision Center in San Antonio.
Our friendly, knowledgeable staff will walk you through every step — from towing and insurance coordination to a detailed damage assessment and repair estimate. We handle the hard stuff so you can focus on getting back to your routine.
Why San Antonio Drivers Trust Vic Vaughan Collision Center
- Certified, highly trained technicians
- OEM-quality parts and repairs meeting factory standards
- Advanced repair and paint-matching technology
- Assistance with insurance claims and rental vehicles
- Friendly, transparent communication throughout the process
Get Back on the Road Safely
Accidents can be stressful, but with the right steps — and the right repair team — you’ll be back on the road in no time.
Trust Vic Vaughan Collision Center to restore your vehicle with precision, care, and professionalism.
Call us today to schedule your repair or get a free estimate!
