Winter weather in West Texas may not be as severe as in northern states, but icy patches and sudden rain can turn local roads into hazardous conditions. January brings a mix of freezing nights, slick bridges, and unexpected downpours — all of which can increase the risk of car accidents. If you find yourself in a crash during these conditions, taking the right steps immediately afterward can significantly impact your health and legal rights.
Step 1: Stop Safely and Check for Injuries
Even in slippery conditions, you must stop. If it’s safe to do so, move your vehicle out of the main flow of traffic — onto the shoulder, if possible. Turn on your hazard lights, and, if you can, set out warning triangles or flares to alert other drivers.
Check yourself, your passengers, and anyone else involved for injuries. Ice and wet roads often lead to lower-speed collisions, but injuries like whiplash, soft-tissue damage, or more serious trauma still occur. Call 911 immediately if there are any signs of injury, no matter how minor they may seem at first.
Step 2: Document the Scene
Once you’ve ensured that everyone is safe and medical help is on the way (if needed), start gathering evidence — don’t wait until later. Use your phone (or a camera) to take photos of:
- Damage to all vehicles involved
- Skid marks, debris, or ice patches on the road
- Road conditions (wet pavement, standing water, or black ice)
- Weather conditions at the time of the crash
- License plates, traffic signals, signage, or any roadway defects
Also, write down what happened while it's fresh in your memory. Note the time, location, your speed, the direction you were traveling — and anything you did to control your vehicle (braking, swerving, etc.).
Step 3: Exchange Information — Carefully
Exchange contact and insurance information with the other driver(s), but be cautious about what you say. Keep your statements factual and brief: “The road was very slick,” for instance, is fine, but avoid admitting fault (“I lost control”) because it could be used against you later. Be courteous, but protect your legal position.
Get names, phone numbers, driver’s license numbers, license plate and vehicle information, insurance company names and policy numbers, and contact info for any witnesses.
Step 4: Call the Authorities & File a Police Report
In many Texas counties, a police report is a powerful piece of documentation for later legal or insurance claims. Even if the accident seems minor, request that law enforcement come to the scene and file an official report. A report ensures that your version of what happened is recorded and can support your claim that adverse weather contributed to the collision.
Step 5: Seek Medical Attention
Sometimes injuries from car accidents in icy or rainy weather don’t appear right away. Even if you feel fine, consider going to a medical provider as soon as possible. Explain that you were in a collision on slippery roads — this helps doctors evaluate any “hidden” injuries and ensures there’s a medical record linking your symptoms to the crash.
Step 6: Notify Your Insurance Company
Inform your insurance company about the accident, but be cautious about what you disclose. Provide basic facts like when and where the crash happened and who was involved — but avoid giving detailed statements about fault. Insurance adjusters may try to minimize your claim; having legal representation can help level the playing field.
Step 7: Contact an Experienced West Texas Personal Injury Attorney
Winter weather accidents can complicate liability: Was the other driver negligent? Did road conditions play a role? That’s where experienced legal counsel can be invaluable. At Hanna Allen, PLLC, our West Texas personal injury attorneys have over 150 years of combined experience advocating for drivers just like you. We understand how to investigate the crash, gather evidence (including weather data), and negotiate with insurance companies — or take the case to court if necessary.
Personal Injury Lawyers Serving West Texas
If you’ve been in a car accident during icy or rainy winter conditions in West Texas, don’t navigate the aftermath alone. Reach out to Hanna Allen, PLLC today at (432) 220-2649 for a free consultation. We’ll help you understand your rights, build a strong case, and fight for the compensation you deserve.