The thrill of the open road and the freedom of independence are hallmarks of a teenager’s journey into the world of driving. With that newfound freedom comes a responsibility that cannot be ignored: staying safe and prepared for the unexpected. Car accidents are an unfortunate reality that can affect even the most cautious of drivers, and for young and relatively inexperienced teen drivers, the prospect can be particularly daunting and dangerous.

If you or your teenager has been injured in an accident, do not navigate the legal complexities alone. The Law Office of Shane McClelland, PLLC is here to walk with you arm in arm to help guide you through the process and pursue the compensation you deserve. Your well-being is our priority, and we are ready to stand by your side.

Checklist for Teen Drivers After a Car Accident in Texas

While we can’t predict when accidents will occur, we can certainly prepare for them. Whether you are a teen driver or a parent guiding your young driver, this guide will be a valuable tool on your road to safety and security.

Prioritize Safety

Your safety and the safety of your passengers should always be the top priority. If you are involved in a car accident, follow these steps:

  • Check for injuries: Make sure you and your passengers are okay. If anyone is injured, call 911 immediately. Either way, if your teen has been involved in a car wreck, seek medical attention as soon as possible. Sometimes, because of the adrenaline and endorphins running through the body, injuries may not be noticed for hours after the wreck.
  • Move to a safe location: If possible, move your vehicle to the side of the road to prevent further accidents.
  • Turn on hazard lights: Alert other drivers of your presence and that there is an issue.
  • Stay in the car: Unless there is a safety concern, it is generally safer to stay inside the vehicle while waiting for help.

Determining the safest actions is situational. Remain calm; if you’re unsure what to do, ask the 911 operator while calling them to the scene. And then call, do not text, your parents or guardians so they can meet you at the scene of the wreck or hospital.

Seek Medical Attention

Even if you do not feel injured immediately after the accident, getting a medical evaluation is a good idea. Some injuries may not manifest symptoms right away. Seeing a doctor also creates a record of your health status following the accident.

Call the Authorities

Even if the accident seems minor, reporting it to the authorities is crucial. Contact the local police and inform them about the crash. Unless you are going to the hospital in an ambulance, wait for the police to arrive and make a crash report. A police report provides valuable documentation for insurance claims and legal proceedings.

Exchange Information

Exchange essential information with the other driver(s) involved in the accident, including:

  • Name, contact information, and address
  • Insurance company and policy number
  • Driver’s license number and license plate
  • Make, model, and color of the vehicles

If the other driver isn’t cooperating, stop interacting with them and wait for law enforcement to arrive. Do not engage in an argument to try and convince the other driver he or she was at fault. Allow the police to make that determination.

Document the Crash Scene

If your injuries permit, then use your phone or a camera to take pictures of the accident scene, including:

  • Vehicle damage (your vehicle and the other vehicles involved in the wreck)
  • Skid marks and debris
  • Traffic signs and signals
  • Weather and road conditions

These photos can serve as important evidence if you need to file an insurance claim or file a lawsuit.

Gather Witness Statements

If there are witnesses at the scene, ask for their contact information and a brief statement regarding what they saw. Their testimony can be valuable in establishing the sequence of events.

Notify Your Insurance Company

After speaking with an experienced car wreck attorney, contact your insurance company as soon as possible to report the accident. Provide them with accurate and detailed information about the incident. Follow their instructions for submitting a claim and any necessary documentation. Insurance companies are looking out for their own interest, not yours. Insurance companies make money by collecting your premiums, not paying on your injury and property claims. When you speak to an insurance adjuster, do not give a recorded statement without your attorney present.

Consult With a Personal Injury Lawyer

If the accident was not your fault or you believe you could be entitled to compensation, consult with a personal injury lawyer. A legal professional can help you understand your rights, guide you through the claims process, and confirm you receive fair compensation for your damages.

Secure Qualified Legal Representation After a Car Accident in Texas

Don’t let an accident injury define your teen’s future—reach out to the Shane McClelland to schedule a free consultation and take the first step toward justice and recovery. Your rights matter, and we are here to protect them.

Call (713) 987-7107 or reach out to us online for more information about how we can help.