Crash StepsIndependent public guide · not a law firm
Call 911

Educational information only. This is not legal advice, medical advice, or an emergency service. It does not create an attorney-client relationship, and a disclaimer is not a promise that the page fits your crash. If someone may be hurt, call 911.

Paper is welcome here

A calmer file, on paper

Print the lists you need. These are organizational prompts, not a universal statement of legal duties or proof that a claim requirement is complete.

Official pages reviewed November 8, 2026.

Do not write sensitive details on a shared printer or leave completed sheets in public. No information is submitted here. For an interactive list, the original checklist stores checkmarks only on your device.

After immediate safety is addressed

  • For possible injury or danger, call 911; do not use paperwork as triage.
  • Read the first-hour guide and the applicable Chapter 550 duties.
  • Privately note the actual location and responding agency; do not assume a Houston mailing address means HPD.
  • Preserve original photos and observations safely; do not return to traffic.
  • Review your policy notice instructions and record what you sent.
  • Identify the next unanswered question rather than treating this list as proof of compliance.

A document packet you can follow

  • Keep original report and any official supplement with received dates.
  • Index request dates, exact items requested and the relevant insurer.
  • Keep each sent version and transmission record; record receipt separately.
  • Separate estimates, invoices, receipts and payment explanations.
  • Keep health and identity records securely; share only through appropriate channels.
  • List missing items and unresolved legal deadline questions for individual review.

Before the next insurer conversation

  • Identify whose policy and which coverage the conversation concerns.
  • Have the current estimate or decision version available privately.
  • Ask which item remains outstanding and how to send it securely.
  • Clarify review, authorization and payment as separate stages.
  • Request written confirmation of material decisions or extensions.
  • Save a dated private call note without filling uncertain facts with guesses.

Before returning a rental

  • Confirm the actual authorized end date and time, remaining limits and responsible payer.
  • Check the rental contract’s return and after-hours billing instructions.
  • Budget any unapproved days as potentially out of pocket.
  • Follow the rental company’s permitted return and condition-record process.
  • Keep the actual return receipt, date, time and final itemized invoice.
  • Separate a rental contract disagreement from an insurance authorization question.

Sources for this page