Steps to take after an automobile accident

Even if you are a careful driver, accidents can happen. Below is a summary of the steps you should take if you become the victim of a car accident.

1. Stay Safe

Your immediate safety is the most important concern after an accident. If you are uninjured and it is safe to exit your vehicle, do so and assess the situation. Never leave the scene of an accident.

2. Check for Injuries

Check on drivers and passengers in the other vehicle(s). If anyone appears injured, groggy, unresponsive, or unsure, call 911 immediately. Many injuries are internal or not visible, so it is safer to be cautious.

3. Move Vehicles if Safe

If everyone is uninjured and vehicles block traffic or create a hazard, move them to the shoulder or a nearby parking area. If moving the vehicles is unsafe, use flares, reflective triangles, or at least turn on hazard lights to warn other drivers.

4. Stay Calm

If the accident was not your fault, resist the urge to get angry or argue with the other driver. Staying calm helps you handle the situation effectively and reduces stress for everyone involved.

5. Don’t Admit Fault

Even if you believe you caused the accident, avoid admitting fault. The full details may reveal otherwise. Protect yourself from making statements that could be misinterpreted later.

6. Call the Police

After ensuring everyone is safe, call the non-emergency police line to report the accident, even if it seems minor. The police will create a report after speaking with all parties and witnesses. Record the officer’s name, badge number, and report number so you can obtain a copy later.

7. Take Photos

Use your phone to take pictures of vehicle damage, the scene, injuries, license plates, and the other parties involved. Ensure you do not interfere with the police investigation while taking photos.

8. Gather Information

Collect contact details from any witnesses, including names, addresses, and phone numbers. If the police do not attend, record the same information for the other drivers, plus their insurance details, vehicle make/model, and license plate numbers. Never share your social security number or sign documents unless required by police or your insurance company.

9. Consider Medical Attention

Your health is the top priority. Some injuries may not be immediately noticeable due to adrenaline. Seek medical attention at the emergency room or from your doctor, even for minor impacts. Concussions or spinal injuries can occur without obvious symptoms.

10. File an Insurance Claim

Notify your insurance company promptly. Cooperate with the adjuster, explain the incident clearly, and provide all relevant details. Check whether your policy covers medical expenses for you or your passengers, which is often overlooked.

11. Document Everything

Keep notes on medical visits, treatment details, missed work, and impacts on daily life. Also, record any communications with insurance adjusters, including names, dates, times, and summaries of conversations.

12. Protect Your Rights

Insurance companies may offer quick settlements, but do not accept offers before completing medical treatment. Some injuries appear later or worsen over time. Never sign documents without consulting an attorney to ensure full compensation for injuries and pain.

13. Consult an Attorney

If you suffered injuries, pain, or lost wages, consult an experienced personal injury attorney. Attorneys often work on contingency, so you pay only if you recover compensation. A consultation ensures your rights are protected and provides a fair assessment of your case.