What to Do After a Car Accident, Step by Step

The minutes after a crash are loud, confusing and stressful, even when nobody is hurt. A simple checklist, read now while you are calm, can make those minutes easier. Save this page, or copy the short list at the end into your glove box.

At the scene

1. Stop and check for injuries

Always stop. Leaving the scene of an accident can be a crime. Check yourself and your passengers, then others if it is safe to do so. If anyone is injured, or if you are unsure, call 911 right away. Do not move someone who is seriously hurt unless they are in immediate danger, such as from fire.

2. Make the scene safe

If the cars can be moved and nobody is hurt, many states require or encourage you to move them out of traffic to the shoulder or a nearby lot. Turn on your hazard lights. Use flares or reflective triangles if you have them. If the cars cannot be moved, stay in a safe place away from traffic.

3. Call the police

Many states require you to report an accident to police when there are injuries, deaths or damage above a certain dollar amount. Even for minor accidents, a police report can be valuable for your claim. If police do not come to the scene, ask how to file a report yourself, and do it promptly.

4. Exchange information

Collect the following from every driver involved:

• Full name and contact information.
• Insurance company and policy number.
• Driver's license number and state.
• License plate number.
• Vehicle make, model and color.
• The name of the vehicle owner, if it is not the driver.

Also note the names and contact details of any passengers and witnesses.

5. Document everything

Use your phone to photograph all vehicles from several angles, the damage up close, license plates, the surrounding area, road signs, skid marks, traffic signals and weather or lighting conditions. Write down the time, the location and a short description of what happened while it is fresh in your mind.

6. Be polite, and careful with words

Be courteous, but avoid apologizing or saying the accident was your fault. Fault is determined later based on the facts and the law, and a casual statement at the scene can be misunderstood. Stick to facts when speaking with the other driver and the police.

In the hours after

7. Get checked by a doctor

Some injuries, such as whiplash or concussions, may not cause symptoms right away. If you feel any pain or discomfort, see a medical professional. Keep records of every visit and expense.

8. Notify your insurer

Report the accident to your insurance company as soon as you reasonably can, even if you think you were not at fault. Most policies require prompt notice. Many insurers let you start a claim by phone, website or app. Have your policy number, the information you collected, your photos and the police report number ready.

In the days after

9. Understand the claim process

An adjuster will usually review the accident and the damage. Depending on your coverage and who was at fault, repairs might be paid by the other driver's liability coverage or by your own collision coverage, minus your deductible. If you were hurt, coverages such as PIP, MedPay or uninsured motorist coverage may apply. Ask your adjuster which coverages are being used and what you will owe.

10. Arrange repairs and transportation

Ask whether your insurer has a repair process to follow, but know that in most states you can choose your own repair shop. If you carry rental reimbursement coverage, ask how to use it. Keep every receipt related to the accident.

11. Keep an organized file

Keep the police report, photos, medical records, repair estimates, receipts and all correspondence in one place. Write down the date, time and summary of every phone call with an insurer.

12. Ask for help when it gets complicated

If there are serious injuries, a dispute over fault, or a claim that is denied, you may want to speak with an attorney. Your state's department of insurance can also answer questions and accept complaints about how a claim is handled.

Glove box checklist

• Safety first. Call 911 if anyone may be hurt.
• Move to safety if possible. Hazard lights on.
• Call the police and get a report number.
• Exchange names, insurance, license and plate information.
• Photograph vehicles, damage and the scene.
• Do not admit fault.
• See a doctor if anything hurts.
• Notify your insurer promptly.

This Teaching is general information, not legal, tax or financial advice. Coverage rules, requirements and options vary by state and by policy. Always read your policy documents. Car Insurance Buddha is not an insurance carrier, agency, or broker.