In general, you do not have to tell the Texas Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) directly that you have been involved in a car accident. However, you are legally required to report a car crash to the police if it involves injuries, deaths or significant property damage. The police will reach out to the DMV themselves if any traffic citations were issued. Make sure to speak with an experienced car accident lawyer in San Antonio for legal guidance and support.
When Does the DMV Get Involved in a Texas Car Accident Case?
If you get into a motor vehicle collision in Texas, the law does not require you to contact or notify the DMV – even if the accident was serious. Instead, local law enforcement will contact the DMV directly if either of the drivers was issued tickets or traffic citations for violations such as speeding or reckless driving.
In these scenarios, the DMV will use this information to apply demerit points to the driver’s license or driving record. Having four or more moving violations added to your record within 12 months, or seven or more within 24 months, will result in the administrative suspension of your driver’s license by the DMV. If the DMV initiates a suspension or revocation after a car accident, you will be notified by mail.
What Are My Responsibilities After a Car Accident in Texas?
If you were not at fault for the accident and did not receive any traffic citations from the responding police officer, the Department of Motor Vehicles should not get involved in your case. You are under no obligation to notify the DMV of the crash yourself.
However, state law does uphold the following driver responsibilities:
- Report the crash to the police immediately by calling 911 if it involves bodily injury, death, property damage exceeding $1,000 or incapacitated vehicles. The peace officer will submit a written crash report (Form CR-3) within 10 days.
- Submit a Driver’s Crash Report (Form CR-2) to the TxDOT. If the police did not come to the scene, you must self-submit a Driver’s Crash Report (Form CR-2) to the Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT) within 10 days.
- Remain at the scene and render aid to anyone injured, either by calling for paramedics or transporting victims to the nearest hospital. Exchange information with the other driver, including names, contact information and car insurance information.
If you fail to meet these obligations, you could face consequences, including potential hit-and-run allegations. Once your police report has been filed, request a copy for your records. The police report can provide important evidence during the insurance claims process.
Do I Have to Report a Crash to My Insurance Company?
Yes, you must report any accident involving your insured motor vehicle to your car insurance carrier. Most insurance providers require prompt or immediate reporting. Call your insurance company as soon as possible to let them know about the accident. If you suffered property damage or bodily injuries, you can then file a claim with the insurance company of the at-fault driver.
Do not give the insurance claims adjuster a recorded statement about your crash, and do not admit fault for the accident. If you are offered a quick settlement, wait to accept until you’ve spoken to a San Antonio personal injury attorney. You can trust the advice you receive from a lawyer, but you cannot trust a car insurance provider to immediately offer a fair settlement. To receive a free consultation about your recent Texas car accident, contact Hill Law Firm Accident & Injury Attorneys.