One Saturday afternoon, Sarah (name changed) was riding her motorcycle through a busy intersection, when a car ran a red light and clipped her. She went down hard, scraped and twisted her knee, and her bike was damaged but drivable. The other driver had called police, but they asked if an ambulance was needed. Sarah didn’t think she was hurt that badly, and the other driver was fine, so they told the police no ambulance was needed. The police said to exchange insurance information and to file a report with the form on the police website. Sarah was left standing in the middle of the road, shaken, with no officer on the scene. What should she do next?

If you’ve ever been in a car, truck, or motorcycle accident when the police don’t show up, you’re not alone. Many Texans face this situation—especially when there are no obvious life-threatening injuries. While it may seem like a relief that no one has to wait for law enforcement, it can create challenges later when dealing with insurance claims or legal issues, especially when proof is needed for a jury.

Here’s how to handle an accident properly, protect your rights, and document everything so you’re not left at a disadvantage.

1. Take Photos Immediately

Your first priority is your safety and the safety of others at the scene. Once you’re safe, use your phone or camera to document as much as possible.

• Vehicles: Capture all angles of the vehicles involved, including dents, scratches, and broken parts. Don’t forget to take pictures of license plates and any debris on the road.
• Location: Show skid marks, traffic signals, stop signs, intersections, or road hazards that might have contributed to the accident.
• Injuries: Take photos of visible injuries, even minor scrapes or bruises, as these can be important later for your claim.

Good photos serve as critical evidence, especially if a police report is missing. Insurance companies often rely heavily on documentation from the accident scene when evaluating claims. And a year or more later a jury will most likely see you in a healed condition and dressed nicely, not appreciating what you endured and exactly how serious this accident really was.

2. Write Down Everything You Remember

Accidents are stressful, and details can fade quickly. Right after the accident, jot down everything you remember:

• How the accident happened
• Direction and speed of all vehicles involved
• Traffic signals, weather, and road conditions
• Names and contact information of witnesses

Even if you feel fine, adrenaline can mask injuries or memory gaps. Writing things down immediately ensures accuracy and strengthens your claim, especially when the police don’t show up.

3. Gather Witness Information

A friendly passerby or another driver may have seen the accident clearly. Ask them for:

• Full name and phone number
• Address (if they’re willing)
• A brief description of what they saw

Witnesses can corroborate your version of events, which is especially important when the police don’t file an official report.

4. Seek Medical Attention Promptly

Even if you don’t think you’re seriously injured, get checked out by a medical professional. Adrenaline can mask pain, and injuries like concussions, internal bleeding, or soft tissue damage may not appear immediately.

Medical records not only protect your health but also become essential documentation if you need to file a personal injury claim later. They show a clear timeline from accident to treatment and strengthen your case against insurance companies.

At the Law Office of David M. Kennedy, we may be able to assist you with finding someone to treat examine you and treat you for your injuries, even if uninsured.

5. Notify Your Insurance Company Immediately

Even without a police report, if you have full coverage and not just liability, you need to report the accident to your insurance provider as soon as possible, and this is easiest through your agent. He/she will need names, dates, and photos of the vehicles. But before you provide all your information, speak to a lawyer because what you give your agent will probably be seen by the other side and the jury. If your agent wants a recorded statement, tell them that you do not want to do so at this time.

Keep copies of every communication with your insurance company. Notes, emails, and letters can help if disputes arise over claim value or liability.

6. Avoid the Other Insurance Adjuster

Your own agent or claims representative should never tell you to deal with the other party’s carrier, and you should not do so. The other side owes you no duty whatsoever unless you sue and get a judgment against their insured. Never, ever give a recorded statement to the other’s person’s insurance carrier without the advice and/or assistance of counsel, nor should you give them any of your bills or healthcare reports because they are there for one purpose: to settle your claim for as little as possible. Beware.

7. Contact the Law Office of David M. Kennedy

If you were injured or your vehicle was damaged, having a personal injury attorney can make a significant difference. Insurance companies may try to undervalue claims when there’s no police report. An experienced lawyer can:

• Review your documentation and advise what’s missing
• Communicate directly with insurance adjusters
• Advocate for fair compensation for medical bills, lost income, and property damage

At the Law Office of David M. Kennedy, we’ve helped countless Texans navigate these exact situations. Whether it’s a car, truck, or motorcycle accident, we understand the pitfalls and know how to make sure your claim is handled correctly—even when law enforcement isn’t involved.

8. Keep a Timeline of Events

An attorney will help organize your notes, photos, medical visits, and any communication related to the accident in a single file or digital folder. Important information will include:

• Accident date, time, and location
• When you sought medical care
• Calls or emails to your insurance company
• Any expenses incurred, such as towing or repairs

A clear, chronological record demonstrates responsibility and provides a strong foundation for your case.

8. Stay Off Social Media About the Accident

It’s tempting to post about the crash or your recovery, but insurance adjusters and opposing parties can use social media posts against you. Avoid sharing opinions, photos, or details until your claim is resolved.

Final Thoughts

Being in a car, truck, or motorcycle accident without a police report can feel overwhelming—but you are not without options. The key is thorough documentation, timely medical care, and proper legal guidance.

If you find yourself in a situation when the police don’t show up, take pictures, gather witnesses, write down what happened, and reach out to an experienced attorney. At the Law Office of David M. Kennedy, we make sure your claim is protected, your voice is heard, and your recovery is prioritized.

Call us at (903) 819-0720 or Email today for your free consultation, and let us stand up for you — so you can focus on healing and getting your life back.