Getting rear-ended on the MoPac Expressway (Loop 1) in Austin can send dread down your spine. Now you’re one of those people who has to pull over on the side of the freeway while rush-hour traffic crawls along beside you. Not only is this a hassle, but a rear-end collision can also cause serious injury to you and your passengers.

Unfortunately, collisions are all too common on this congested stretch of highway in Austin but knowing what steps to take immediately after the accident can help protect your health, your rights and your potential injury claim.

Here is what you need to do if you’re rear-ended on MoPac.

Step 1: Safely Move to Safety, If You Can

MoPac is one of the busiest highways in Austin and sitting in a live lane after a collision is dangerous. If your vehicle is drivable, turn on your hazard lights and carefully pull over to the shoulder or nearest exit. If it’s not safe to move, stay in your vehicle with your seatbelt fastened and call 911.

Step 2: Call the Police

Always call the police after a rear-end accident, even if the damage seems minor. A police report creates an official record, which can be crucial when filing an insurance claim or proving fault. When officers arrive, explain what happened and stick to the facts. If the other driver suggests not calling the police, that’s a red flag. You have every right to report the crash.

Step 3: Document the Scene

Even if the damage seems minor, it’s crucial to gather evidence. If it’s safe to do so on the freeway, take photos of the vehicles, license plates, damage, skid marks, road signs and any injuries before getting back in your cars to exit the highway and pull over to a safe spot. Be sure also to get the name, contact info, license plate number and insurance details of the other driver and ask for contact info from any witnesses. This documentation will be vital when filing your claim.

Step 4: Seek Medical Attention

Rear-end crashes often cause whiplash and soft tissue injuries, some of which don’t show symptoms immediately. You may feel fine at first, but pain, stiffness or headaches could appear hours or days later. Get checked out by a doctor as soon as possible. Not only is this crucial for your health, but a medical record also strengthens your claim and provides additional documentation if you need to sue for whiplash.

Step 5: Notify Your Insurance Company

You or your attorney (see step 6) will need to let your insurance provider know about the accident. Stick to the facts and avoid admitting fault. Be cautious when speaking to the other driver’s insurance. They may try to downplay your injuries or pressure you into a quick settlement.

Step 6: Consult a Car Accident Attorney like McKinney Vos

Rear-end collisions may seem straightforward, but insurance companies don’t always offer fair compensation, especially if your injuries require ongoing care or time off work. Many car accident victims benefit from hiring a car accident attorney. Even before calling your insurance company, you can consult a personal injury lawyer. Then, they’ll take the reins and handle calling the insurance company on your behalf.

An experienced Texas personal injury attorney can:

• Help prove fault (even if it seems obvious)
• Evaluate the true value of your claim
• Handle communication with insurers
• Fight for compensation for medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering

Contact Us a McKinney Vos PLLC for a Free Consultation

Rear-end crashes on MoPac can happen in an instant, but what you do next makes all the difference. Prioritize your safety, document the scene and don’t rush into any insurance decisions without legal guidance.

If you’ve been rear-ended on MoPac, even in the past two years, our Austin car accident attorneys are here to help. Schedule a free consultation today to learn your next steps and get the compensation you deserve.