What to Do in the First 24 Hours After a Car Crash in El Paso

Why the First 24 Hours After a Car Accident Matter

Getting into a car accident is overwhelming, especially on the busy streets and highways of El Paso. Whether it happens on I-10, Montana, or Zaragoza, what you do in the first 24 hours can make or break your case. Knowing exactly what to do after a car accident in El Paso will help protect your health, your legal rights, and your future compensation.

At Sebastian Nunez Injury Law, our team—led by attorney Sebastian Nuñez—is here to guide injury victims every step of the way. Here’s what you need to do in the first 24 hours following a crash.

Step 1: Prioritize Safety First

Move to safety if you can and turn on hazard lights.

Check for injuries. Call 911 immediately if anyone is hurt.

Stay at the scene. Leaving the scene of an accident can carry legal consequences.

If you’re in a dangerous location—like Loop 375 or near heavy traffic intersections such as Hawkins or Alameda—wait for law enforcement in a safe nearby spot.

Step 2: Call the Police

Even for minor crashes, always request a police report. The El Paso Police Department will document:

What happened

Where it happened

Parties involved

Initial fault assignment

This official report is vital when filing a claim. A good personal injury attorney like Sebastian Nunez will use this report to build your case.

Step 3: Document the Scene

If you’re physically able:

Take photos and videos of the damage, road conditions, license plates, and injuries.

Record the location and time of the accident.

Talk to witnesses and collect their contact info.

This documentation can make a huge difference in your case later—especially when memory fades or insurance companies attempt to deny liability.

Step 4: Seek Medical Attention ASAP

Many injuries—including whiplash, brain injuries, or internal bleeding—don’t show up until hours or days later.

Go to an ER or urgent care in El Paso within the first 24 hours, even if you feel fine. Getting timely medical records creates a strong link between the crash and your injuries.

Step 5: Don’t Talk to Insurance Companies Yet

The other party’s insurance will likely contact you quickly, but don’t say anything until you talk to a lawyer.

They may:

Try to record your statement

Offer you a lowball settlement

Use your words against you

Instead, contact Sebastian Nunez Law Firm for a free case evaluation and let us speak on your behalf.

Step 6: Contact an El Paso Car Accident Lawyer

The sooner you speak with an attorney, the better. At Sebastian Nunez Law Firm, we help El Paso residents:

Preserve evidence

Connect with the right doctors

Understand their rights

File strong claims

We also speak Spanish, so you don’t have to worry about language barriers: Hablamos Español.

And the best part? You don’t pay unless we win.

👉 Contact us now or start your [Free Case Evaluation](Free Case Evaluation Form).

What If You Didn’t Do Everything in the First 24 Hours?

Don’t panic. Even if you didn’t collect evidence or see a doctor yet, there’s still time to build your case—especially with a skilled attorney like Sebastian Nuñez in your corner.

Reach out today to learn how we can still help you recover damages.

Internal Resources to Explore:

[Car Accidents in El Paso](Practice Areas)

[Spinal Cord Injuries](Practice Areas)