Step 1: Make Sure Everyone Is Safe
First, check if anyone is hurt. If someone is injured, call 911 right away. Even if no one is hurt, call the police to report the accident. Tip: Never leave the scene—it can get you into serious legal trouble.
Step 2: Take Pictures and Notes
Use your phone to take photos of:
- All the cars involved
- Damage to the cars
- The road, traffic signs, or anything nearby
- Skid marks, lights, or anything else that seems important
Also write down:
- The time and place of the accident
- What the weather and traffic were like
- What happened in your own words
Step 3: Share Information with the Other Driver
You must give the other driver:
- Your name and contact info
- Your driver’s license number
- Your car’s registration
- Your insurance company and policy number
Important: Don’t say it was your fault or blame the other person. Just share the facts.
Step 4: Talk to the Police
A police report is helpful for insurance and legal reasons. Be honest, but don’t guess—if you don’t know something, it’s okay to say that.
Ask the officer for:
- A copy of the report or the report number
- Their name and badge number
Step 5: Tell Your Insurance Company
Call your insurance company soon after the accident. Waiting too long can cause problems with your claim.
Give them:
- Details of what happened
- The police report number
- The photos and notes you took
Step 6: Know Your Legal Rights
If the crash wasn’t your fault or someone got seriously hurt, you might get money for:
- Car repairs
- Doctor bills
- Lost wages
- Pain and stress
Talk to a lawyer if:
- You were badly hurt
- Someone died
- The other driver says it was your fault
- The insurance company gives you a low offer
Tip: Don’t say yes to the first offer from the insurance company. You might deserve more.
Step 7: See a Doctor
Even if you feel okay, get checked by a doctor. Some injuries (like whiplash) don’t show up right away. A doctor visit also gives you proof if you need to make a legal or insurance claim.
Step 8: Keep All Your Papers
Put everything in one place:
- Doctor records and bills
- Car repair receipts
- Emails and letters from insurance
- Anything else you paid for because of the crash
This can help you later if you need to make a claim or go to court.
Final Thoughts
Accidents are stressful, but knowing what to do can really help. Focus on staying safe, getting help, and protecting yourself legally. The sooner you act, the better things can turn out.