Should I Call 911 After a Car Accident in Fort Worth, TX?
Car accidents can be unsettling and even traumatic, no matter how minor they may seem. You might be wondering, “Should I call 911 after a car accident in Fort Worth, TX?” Let our Fort Worth car accident lawyers explain why and when you should call 911 after an accident.
Even in minor accidents, injuries can occur. Texas law requires that drivers involved in an accident call 911 if there are serious injuries. You may be charged with criminal penalties for failing to report if the other party is seriously injured, even if the injuries are not immediately apparent. Calling 911 after an accident ensures that any injured parties can receive prompt medical attention.
Calling 911 also ensures that the accident is officially documented by law enforcement. This documentation can be invaluable if you need to file an insurance claim or pursue a personal injury case later. The police can also help collect information from all parties involved and any witnesses and de-escalate any conflicts related to the accident.
When to Call 911 After a Car Accident
If anyone involved in the accident, including yourself, has sustained injuries, you should call 911 immediately. These can range from minor cuts and bruises to more severe injuries. Drivers are required to report accidents to 911 if they result in serious bodily injury.
If the accident has caused a traffic blockage or poses a danger to other drivers, call 911. The police can help manage the scene and prevent further accidents.
If the other driver involved in the accident leaves the scene without providing their information, also known as a “hit-and-run,” it’s crucial to call 911. The police can assist in locating the responsible party. Under TTC § 550.024, leaving the scene without providing information is punishable as a misdemeanor. A driver who leaves the scene may be fined hundreds of dollars, depending upon the damage to the other vehicle.
If you suspect that the other driver is under the influence of drugs or alcohol, it’s essential to involve law enforcement both for safety and documentation purposes. The police can conduct sobriety tests and determine if the driver is impaired. If the driver is intoxicated, the police can detain the driver so that they do not cause further harm to other vehicles.
What Happens When You Call 911?
When you call 911 after a car accident in Fort Worth, a dispatcher will answer your call and ask about the situation.
Be prepared to provide the following information to the dispatcher:
- Location: Provide the exact location of the accident, including street names and landmarks.
- Injuries: Inform the dispatcher if anyone is injured and describe the nature and severity of the injuries.
- Number of vehicles: Specify how many vehicles are involved in the accident.
- Names and information of parties: Share any information you have about the other driver(s) involved, including license plate numbers and descriptions.
- Suspected Hazards: If there are any potential hazards, such as leaking fluids or damaged utility poles, make sure to mention them.
Once the dispatcher has all the necessary information, they will send law enforcement to the scene. If needed, the dispatcher will also send medical personnel.
What Do the Police Do at the Scene?
When the police arrive at the scene of the accident, their primary role is to ensure the safety of all parties involved and document the incident.
You can expect the police to do the following:
- Assess the scene to determine if any immediate dangers exist, such as fires or hazardous materials.
- Gather information from all parties involved, including their names, contact information, and insurance details. They may also speak with any witnesses.
- Ask you and others involved for statements about the accident. Be honest and provide a clear account of what happened.
- The officer will create an accident report that includes all the relevant details. This report is a crucial document for insurance claims and legal proceedings.
Reports are generally available 48 hours after the accident. You can request crash reports online through the Fort Worth police department.
Remember that calling 911 helps with immediate safety and provides crucial documentation for insurance claims and legal proceedings. When in doubt, it’s better to call 911 and ensure the safety of all parties involved.
Contact the Car Accident Law Firm of Parker Law Firm Injury Lawyers in Fort Worth for Help Today
For more information, please contact an experienced car accident lawyer at Parker Law Firm Injury Lawyers to schedule a free initial consultation today. We have convenient locations in Bedford and Fort Worth, Texas.
Parker Law Firm Injury Lawyers – Bedford
2317 Plaza Pkwy #100,
Bedford, TX 76021
(817) 503-9200
Parker Law Firm Injury Lawyers – Fort Worth
209 N Hampton St,
Fort Worth, TX 76102
(817) 839-3143
