Being involved in a car accident is stressful and disorienting, especially on the busy streets and highways of Fort Worth. 

With over 14,600 car crashes reported in Fort Worth alone, understanding what happens after an accident is crucial for every driver in our community.

Immediate Steps: Safety First

1. Check for Injuries and Call for Help

Your first priority after any collision is safety. Check yourself and your passengers for injuries, and call 911 immediately if anyone is hurt. Even if injuries seem minor, it's better to have medical professionals assess the situation. Fort Worth emergency services are equipped to respond quickly to accident scenes throughout the city.

2. Move to Safety if Possible

If your vehicle is drivable and it's safe to do so, move to the shoulder or nearest safe location away from traffic. This is especially important on high-traffic roads like I-30, I-35W, or Loop 820, where remaining in travel lanes can be extremely dangerous.

Documentation: Collecting Critical Information

3. Document the Scene

Once safety is established, comprehensive documentation becomes critical:

• Take photos of all vehicles involved (showing damage, license plates, and position)
• Photograph the accident scene (including road conditions, traffic signs, and signals)
• Document weather and visibility conditions
• Record the time, date, and exact location of the accident

These details will be invaluable for insurance claims and any potential legal proceedings. Many insurance companies now offer mobile apps that guide you through the documentation process.

4. Exchange Information

Texas law requires exchanging information with all parties involved in an accident. Collect:

• Names and contact information of all drivers
• Driver's license numbers
• License plate numbers
• Insurance company names and policy numbers
• Vehicle makes, models, and years

Be thorough but remain calm and courteous during this process. Avoid discussing fault or making statements that could be interpreted as admitting liability.

Legal Requirements: Following Texas Law

5. File a Police Report

In Texas, you're legally required to report an accident to the police if it involves:

• Injury or death
• Vehicle damage that prevents safe operation
• Property damage exceeding $1,000

Even for minor accidents, a police report provides an official record of the incident, which can be crucial for insurance claims. Fort Worth Police Department officers will document the scene, collect statements, and provide you with a report number.

Vehicle Recovery: Getting Back on the Road

6. Assess Vehicle Drivability

After an accident, determine whether your vehicle can be safely driven. Warning signs that you need a tow include:

• Fluid leaking from the vehicle
• Smoke or steam coming from any part of the car
• Deployed airbags
• Damaged tires or wheels
• Structural damage affecting doors or the frame
• Warning lights on the dashboard

If there's any doubt about your vehicle's safety, it's best to have it towed rather than risk further damage or an accident.

7. Call for Professional Towing

For vehicles that can't be safely driven, professional towing is essential. When you call Texas Towing Inc., here's what happens:

1. Dispatch confirms details: Our operators will ask for your location, vehicle information, and contact details to ensure the right equipment is sent.
2. Professional assessment: Our CDL-licensed, safety-certified operator will evaluate the situation upon arrival.
3. Proper equipment selection: Based on your vehicle's condition, we'll determine the safest recovery method—whether it's a flatbed for cars with wheel damage or specialized equipment for more serious situations.
4. Secure transport: Your vehicle will be carefully loaded and transported to your preferred destination—whether that's a repair shop, your home, or our secure storage facility.

After the Tow: Next Steps for Recovery

8. Notify Your Insurance Company

Contact your insurance provider as soon as possible after the accident. Most companies have 24/7 claim reporting lines. Be prepared to provide:

• Your policy number
• Date, time, and location of the accident
• Police report number
• Contact information for other involved parties
• Photos and notes from the scene

9. Consider Vehicle Storage Options

If your vehicle needs to be stored before repairs can begin, Texas Towing offers secure storage facilities. Our team can help arrange for:

• Short-term storage while insurance assessments are completed
• Safe storage of personal belongings from your vehicle
• Easy access for insurance adjusters to inspect damage

10. Plan for Transportation

While your vehicle is being repaired, you'll need alternative transportation. Consider:

• Rental car coverage (check if your insurance policy includes this)
• Public transportation options in Fort Worth
• Rideshare services for temporary needs
• Arranging rides with family or friends

Preventing Future Accidents in Fort Worth

Fort Worth's busy highways and growing traffic make defensive driving essential. Here are some tips to avoid becoming one of the statistics:

• Allow extra time for trips during rush hour (7-9 AM and 4-6 PM)
• Be particularly cautious in construction zones on I-35W and I-30
• Watch for sudden stops in high-traffic areas near downtown and DFW Airport
• Maintain your vehicle regularly to prevent breakdowns in dangerous locations

When You Need Help, We're There

With over 35 years of experience serving the Fort Worth community, Texas Towing Inc. understands the stress and confusion that follows an accident. Our 24/7 emergency response team is always ready to provide professional recovery services when you need them most.

From light-duty roadside assistance to heavy-duty recovery with our 100-ton rotator, we have the equipment and expertise to handle any situation safely and efficiently.

Frequently Asked Questions About Accident Recovery in Fort Worth

How long does it typically take for a tow truck to arrive after an accident in Fort Worth?

In most areas of Fort Worth, Texas Towing Inc. can dispatch a recovery vehicle within 15-30 minutes of your call. Response times may vary based on traffic conditions, weather, and your location. Our 24/7 emergency response team prioritizes accident scenes to ensure quick service when you need it most.

Will my insurance cover the cost of towing after an accident?

Most comprehensive and collision auto insurance policies include towing coverage after an accident. We recommend checking your specific policy details or contacting your insurance provider directly. Texas Towing works with all major insurance companies and can often bill them directly, minimizing your out-of-pocket expenses.

What if my accident happens on a highway like I-35W or I-30 in Fort Worth?

Highway accidents require special handling due to high-speed traffic. If your accident occurs on a major highway, stay in your vehicle with seatbelts fastened until emergency services arrive. Texas Towing has specialized equipment and trained operators experienced in highway recoveries, including our 100-ton rotator for complex situations involving commercial vehicles.

Can I choose where my vehicle is towed after an accident?

Yes! You have the right to choose where your vehicle is towed. While police at accident scenes may recommend a towing service, you can request Texas Towing specifically. You can also specify your preferred destination—whether that's a repair shop, your home, or our secure storage facility.

What should I do with personal belongings in my car after an accident?

We recommend removing valuable personal items from your vehicle before it's towed if it's safe to do so. For items you can't take with you, our drivers will help inventory and secure them. If your vehicle is brought to our storage facility, we provide secure storage and controlled access to retrieve your belongings at your convenience.