What Should You Do After a Car Accident?

After a car accident, first protect yourself and others from additional danger, check for injuries, and call 911 when emergency assistance or police reporting is necessary. If it is safe and permitted, move the vehicle out of traffic, exchange information with the other driver, document the scene, seek medical attention when appropriate, notify your insurer promptly, and preserve records related to the crash. The exact reporting and insurance requirements vary by state.

A car accident can happen in seconds. What you do afterward can affect your physical safety, insurance claim, ability to document what happened, and—depending on the circumstances—potential legal rights.

The immediate aftermath is often confusing. You may be shaken, injured, angry, or unsure whether the collision is serious enough to involve the police. You may also be approached by another driver's insurance company before you have fully understood what happened.

The safest approach is to work through the situation in an organized order.

This guide explains what to do after a car accident in the United States, from the first few minutes at the crash scene through the insurance claim and potential legal process.

Legal information notice: This article provides general educational information about U.S. law and insurance practices. It is not legal advice and does not create an attorney-client relationship. Accident reporting rules, insurance requirements, negligence standards, deadlines, and available remedies vary by state. For advice about a particular accident, consult a qualified attorney licensed in the relevant jurisdiction.

Key Takeaways

• Safety comes first. Check yourself and others for injuries and move away from immediate danger when it is safe to do so.

• Call 911 when appropriate. Emergency assistance is especially important when someone is injured, a vehicle creates a hazard, or circumstances require police involvement.

• Do not leave the scene unlawfully. State laws impose duties on drivers involved in crashes.

• Exchange information. Obtain the other driver's identifying, vehicle, and insurance information.

• Document the scene. Photographs, videos, witness information, road conditions, and other contemporaneous evidence can become important later.

• Seek medical attention when needed. Some crash-related injuries may not be immediately obvious.

• Notify your insurer promptly. Insurance policies may contain notice requirements and claim procedures.

• Preserve documents. Keep photographs, police reports, medical records, repair estimates, bills, receipts, and communications.

• Do not guess about fault. Stick to facts when speaking with police, insurers, and other parties.

• Understand your state's rules. Fault systems, insurance requirements, reporting obligations, and filing deadlines differ across the United States.

• Consider legal advice when the situation is serious or disputed. Significant injuries, fatalities, disputed liability, uninsured drivers, commercial vehicles, or substantial damages may justify consulting an attorney.

Table of Contents

1. What to Do Immediately After a Car Accident

2. Step 1: Stop and Stay at the Scene

3. Step 2: Check for Injuries and Immediate Dangers

4. Step 3: Call 911 and Request Emergency Assistance

5. Step 4: Move Your Vehicle if It Is Safe and Appropriate

6. Step 5: Exchange Information With the Other Driver

7. Step 6: Document the Accident Scene

8. Step 7: Find and Record Witness Information

9. Step 8: Seek Medical Attention

10. Step 9: Report the Accident to Your Insurance Company

11. Step 10: Preserve Evidence and Keep Records

12. What Information Should You Give an Insurance Company?

13. How Is Fault Determined After a Car Accident?

14. Comparative Negligence and Contributory Negligence

15. No-Fault Insurance States

16. What Happens After You File an Insurance Claim?

17. What If the Other Driver Was Uninsured?

18. What If the Other Driver Leaves the Scene?

19. Common Mistakes to Avoid After a Car Accident

20. When Should You Talk to a Car Accident Lawyer?

21. How Long Do You Have to File a Car Accident Claim?

22. What Compensation May Be Available After an Accident?

23. Car Accident Checklist

24. Frequently Asked Questions

25. Conclusion

What to Do Immediately After a Car Accident

Quick Answer: After a crash, prioritize safety, check for injuries, call 911 when appropriate, remain at the scene, exchange information, document the collision, obtain medical care when necessary, notify your insurance company, and preserve relevant evidence. Do not assume that a minor-looking accident has no legal or financial consequences.

The first few minutes after a collision should be focused on safety rather than determining who is legally responsible.

A practical sequence is:

1. Stop and remain at the scene.

2. Check for injuries.

3. Identify immediate dangers.

4. Call 911 if emergency assistance is needed.

5. Move vehicles out of danger if it is safe and permitted.

6. Exchange information.

7. Photograph and document the scene.

8. Obtain witness information.

9. Seek medical attention when appropriate.

10. Notify your insurance company.

11. Preserve records and evidence.

The National Association of Insurance Commissioners recommends prioritizing safety, calling 911 when someone is injured, moving a drivable vehicle out of traffic when possible, exchanging information, recording witness information, and documenting the accident scene.

Step 1: Stop and Stay at the Scene

Quick Answer: If you are involved in a collision, stop your vehicle and remain at the scene as required by the law of the state where the accident occurred. Leaving without complying with applicable duties can create additional legal problems.

A driver should not simply drive away because the accident appears minor.

Depending on the circumstances and state law, drivers involved in a collision may have obligations concerning:

• Stopping;

• Providing identifying information;

• Providing insurance information;

• Assisting injured people;

• Notifying law enforcement;

• Remaining at the scene; and

• Taking reasonable steps to prevent additional harm.

These obligations can become especially important when another person is injured, when property other than the vehicles is damaged, or when the other driver or property owner cannot immediately be located.

What If the Accident Is Only a Minor Fender-Bender?

Even a low-speed collision can create questions about:

• Vehicle damage;

• Hidden mechanical damage;

• Insurance coverage;

• Injuries;

• Fault;

• Repair costs; and

• Future claims.

Do not assume that "minor damage" means "no legal consequences."

A bumper can look relatively undamaged while sensors, brackets, cameras, or other components have been affected. Likewise, an injury may not be immediately apparent.

The appropriate response depends on the circumstances and applicable state law.

Step 2: Check for Injuries and Immediate Dangers

Quick Answer: Before worrying about insurance or fault, determine whether anyone is injured and whether the crash has created an immediate danger such as fire, leaking fuel, moving traffic, or another collision hazard.

Your first concern should be human safety.

Check yourself first if you are physically able to do so. Then, if appropriate, check passengers and other people involved in the collision.

Look for obvious signs of serious injury, including:

• Heavy bleeding;

• Difficulty breathing;

• Loss of consciousness;

• Severe pain;

• Confusion;

• Significant weakness;

• Difficulty walking or moving; or

• Other symptoms suggesting an emergency.

If someone appears seriously injured, call 911.

Do Not Create a Second Accident

A crash can create hazards that are not immediately obvious.

For example:

• A vehicle may be stopped in a travel lane.

• A disabled vehicle may be difficult for approaching drivers to see.

• Debris may be scattered across the roadway.

• A damaged vehicle may be leaking fluids.

• Traffic may be moving rapidly around the crash scene.

If you cannot safely exit your vehicle, remain inside and follow emergency instructions unless staying inside creates a greater danger.

Step 3: Call 911 and Request Emergency Assistance

Quick Answer: Call 911 when someone is injured, an immediate safety hazard exists, emergency medical assistance is needed, or the circumstances require law-enforcement involvement under applicable state law.

Calling 911 can serve several purposes at once.

Emergency dispatchers can send:

• Police officers;

• Emergency medical personnel;

• Firefighters; or

• Other emergency responders.

When you call, provide factual information such as:

• Your location;

• The number of vehicles involved;

• Whether anyone appears injured;

• Whether traffic is blocked; and

• Whether there is an immediate hazard.

You do not need to determine legal fault while speaking with the dispatcher.

Simply explain what you can observe.

Should You Call the Police for a Minor Accident?

There is no single nationwide answer.

Accident-reporting requirements vary by state and can depend on factors such as:

• Injury;

• Death;

• Property damage;

• The amount of damage;

• Whether a vehicle is disabled; and

• Other circumstances specified by state law.

Therefore, an article intended for a national audience should not tell every driver that police involvement is legally mandatory—or legally unnecessary—in every minor collision.

If you are unsure, contacting local law enforcement or checking your state's official requirements can help you determine what is required.

Step 4: Move Your Vehicle if It Is Safe and Appropriate

Quick Answer: If your vehicle can be moved and doing so will not create additional danger, moving it out of an active traffic lane can reduce the risk of a secondary collision. Do not move an injured person or vehicle when doing so would create a greater safety risk.

The National Association of Insurance Commissioners advises drivers to move a drivable vehicle out of traffic when it can be done safely.

This is particularly important on:

• Highways;

• Interstates;

• Busy urban roads;

• Blind curves;

• Bridges; and

• Areas with poor visibility.

However, safety comes first.

If the vehicle cannot be moved safely, turn on hazard lights if appropriate and follow emergency instructions.

What About Photographing the Vehicles Before Moving Them?

If the scene is safe and circumstances allow, photograph the vehicles and their positions before moving them.

If remaining in the roadway would expose you to significant danger, do not risk your safety merely to obtain photographs.

Evidence is important. Human safety is more important.

Step 5: Exchange Information With the Other Driver

Quick Answer: Exchange identifying and insurance information with the other driver, including names, contact information, driver's license information where appropriate, insurance details, vehicle information, and license plate numbers.

The NAIC recommends collecting information about the other driver and vehicle and sharing comparable information about yourself.

Depending on state requirements and the circumstances, useful information may include:

Driver Information

• Full name;

• Address;

• Telephone number;

• Driver's license information; and

• Other identifying information required by law.

Insurance Information

• Insurance company;

• Policy number;

• Insurance contact information; and

• Photograph of the insurance card, if appropriate.

Vehicle Information

• Make;

• Model;

• Year;

• License plate number; and

• Vehicle identification information when available.

If a commercial truck or company vehicle is involved, also record relevant business information displayed on the vehicle.

Do Not Argue About Fault

An accident scene is usually not the appropriate place to conduct a legal argument.

Avoid statements such as:

"This was completely my fault."

or

"You caused everything."

Instead, exchange information and allow the facts to be documented.

You can be courteous without making admissions about legal responsibility.

Step 6: Document the Accident Scene

Quick Answer: Take photographs and videos of the vehicles, damage, roadway, traffic controls, weather, visible injuries, debris, skid marks, and other relevant conditions when it is safe to do so.

Evidence can disappear quickly.

Vehicles may be towed.

Debris may be removed.

Weather conditions change.

Road conditions can be repaired.

Traffic signals may later operate normally.

Witnesses may leave.

For those reasons, contemporaneous documentation can be valuable.

Photograph the Vehicles

Take multiple photographs rather than one close-up image.

Consider photographing:

• Front of each vehicle;

• Rear of each vehicle;

• Both sides;

• Damaged areas;

• License plates;

• Undercarriage damage when visible and safe;

• Broken lights;

• Mirrors;

• Windows;

• Airbag deployment; and

• Interior damage when relevant.

Photograph the Surrounding Area

Also consider documenting:

• Traffic signs;

• Traffic signals;

• Lane markings;

• Crosswalks;

• Road construction;

• Potholes;

• Skid marks;

• Debris;

• Weather;

• Lighting;

• Obstructions to visibility; and

• The overall intersection or roadway.

The NAIC specifically recommends recording the date, time, exact location, road conditions, weather, skid marks, and photographs or a diagram of the scene.

Photograph Before and After Vehicles Are Moved When Possible

If safe, documenting vehicle positions before movement can help establish the circumstances of the collision.

Again, however, do not stand in an active roadway simply to obtain evidence.

Step 7: Find and Record Witness Information

Quick Answer: If people witnessed the crash, ask for their names and contact information. Independent witnesses may help clarify disputed facts about traffic signals, vehicle movements, road conditions, or what happened immediately before the collision.

Witnesses can become particularly important when drivers provide conflicting accounts.

A witness might have observed:

• Which vehicle entered an intersection first;

• Whether a traffic light was red or green;

• Whether a driver was using a turn signal;

• Whether a vehicle was speeding;

• Whether another vehicle changed lanes unexpectedly; or

• Whether road conditions contributed to the crash.

The NAIC recommends obtaining witnesses' names and contact information at the accident scene.

Do Not Coach Witnesses

If someone witnessed the collision, do not tell that person what to say.

Simply ask whether they saw what happened and whether they are willing to provide their contact information.

An independent account is more useful when it accurately reflects the witness's own observations.

Look for Cameras

If the collision occurred near:

• A business;

• Gas station;

• Apartment building;

• Traffic intersection;

• Parking garage;

• School; or

• Private residence,

there may be surveillance cameras.

Make a note of potentially relevant cameras.

Do not trespass or attempt to obtain private surveillance footage unlawfully. If litigation later becomes necessary, an attorney may be able to use formal legal procedures to seek relevant evidence.

Step 8: Seek Medical Attention

Quick Answer: If you are injured or develop symptoms after a crash, obtain appropriate medical attention. Some crash-related injuries may not be obvious immediately, and prompt medical evaluation can help with both treatment and documentation.

A common mistake is assuming that no immediate pain means no injury.

After a stressful collision, adrenaline and shock can affect how you perceive symptoms.

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration advises people involved in crashes to seek immediate medical attention even if they believe they are not injured.

Symptoms to Take Seriously

Depending on the circumstances, seek medical evaluation for symptoms such as:

• Neck pain;

• Back pain;

• Headache;

• Dizziness;

• Confusion;

• Nausea;

• Weakness;

• Numbness;

• Difficulty concentrating;

• Persistent pain; or

• Other unusual symptoms following the collision.

This article is not a medical diagnostic resource. If you believe you have an emergency, seek emergency medical care.

Why Medical Documentation Matters

Medical records can establish:

• When you were evaluated;

• What symptoms you reported;

• What examinations were performed;

• What diagnosis was made;

• What treatment was recommended; and

• Whether follow-up care was necessary.

If you later pursue an insurance or legal claim, these records may become relevant evidence.

Step 9: Notify Your Insurance Company

Quick Answer: Contact your insurance company as soon as reasonably possible after a crash and follow the reporting requirements in your policy. Insurers may have specific deadlines or procedures for reporting accidents and submitting claims.

The NAIC advises consumers to contact their insurer as soon as possible and notes that many insurance companies have deadlines for reporting claims.

Your insurer may ask for:

• Date and time of accident;

• Location;

• Description of what happened;

• Police report information;

• Other driver's information;

• Witness information;

• Photographs;

• Vehicle damage information; and

• Medical information relevant to the claim.

Be Accurate

When reporting the collision, provide factual information.

If you do not know something, say that you do not know.

Do not invent details simply because an insurance representative asks a question.

For example, if you do not know the exact speed at which the other vehicle was traveling, do not guess.

You can say:

"I don't know."

That is better than creating a fact that may later prove inaccurate.

Step 10: Preserve Your Evidence and Records

Quick Answer: Keep a complete record of the accident, including photographs, police documents, medical records, bills, repair estimates, insurance correspondence, witness information, and other relevant evidence.

Create a dedicated digital and physical folder for the accident.

Keep copies of:

• Police or crash reports;

• Insurance claim numbers;

• Insurance correspondence;

• Photographs;

• Videos;

• Medical records;

• Medical bills;

• Prescription receipts;

• Repair estimates;

• Towing invoices;

• Rental-car expenses;

• Witness information;

• Emails;

• Letters;

• Text messages; and

• Notes of important telephone conversations.

The NAIC recommends keeping track of communications with agents and adjusters and retaining relevant documentation during the claims process.

Keep a Communication Log

A simple log can include:

This can become extremely useful if there is later disagreement about what was reported or promised.

How to Think About the First 24 Hours After a Car Accident

The first day can be divided into four priorities:

Priority 1: Safety

Protect people from additional harm.

Priority 2: Documentation

Record what happened while the information is fresh.

Priority 3: Medical Care

Address injuries and symptoms appropriately.

Priority 4: Insurance

Notify the appropriate insurer and begin the claims process.

Do not let insurance paperwork distract you from emergency medical needs.

Likewise, do not spend so much time photographing a vehicle that you put yourself in danger.

The correct order is always:

Safety → Emergency response → Documentation → Medical care → Insurance → Legal follow-up

What Not to Do After a Car Accident

Knowing what to avoid can be just as important as knowing what to do.

Do Not Leave Without Understanding Your Legal Obligations

State laws impose duties on drivers involved in crashes. Do not assume that a minor collision gives you permission to leave.

Do Not Admit Fault

Avoid making legal conclusions at the scene.

You can explain what you observed without declaring who is legally responsible.

Do Not Threaten the Other Driver

Arguments can escalate quickly.

Remain calm and allow police, insurers, and other appropriate authorities to investigate.

Do Not Destroy or Alter Evidence

Keep photographs, documents, damaged parts, and other potentially relevant materials.

Do Not Guess

If you don't know what happened, say so.

Accurate uncertainty is better than an inaccurate statement.

Do Not Ignore Symptoms

If symptoms develop after a collision, seek appropriate medical attention.

Do Not Automatically Accept the First Settlement Offer

A settlement should be evaluated in light of the applicable insurance policy, facts, injuries, damages, and state law.

The NAIC notes that consumers do not have to accept a payment they believe is unfair and can seek assistance from their state insurance department when disputes with an insurer cannot be resolved.

How Is Fault Determined After a Car Accident?

Quick Answer: Fault is generally determined by examining the facts of the collision and applying the applicable state's negligence and traffic laws. Evidence can include police reports, witness statements, photographs, video, vehicle damage, traffic controls, expert analysis, and other relevant information.

Fault is not always obvious from looking at the damaged vehicles.

Consider a rear-end collision.

People often assume the driver who struck the vehicle in front is automatically responsible. That may frequently be the starting point for an investigation, but the actual legal analysis depends on the facts and applicable state law.

Questions may include:

• Was the front vehicle stopped lawfully?

• Did it suddenly reverse?

• Were brake lights functioning?

• Was another vehicle pushed into it?

• Was the rear driver distracted?

• Was the roadway unusually hazardous?

• Did another party contribute to the collision?

The investigation may therefore be more complicated than simply identifying which vehicle has more damage.

Comparative Negligence and Contributory Negligence

Quick Answer: Many states use comparative-fault rules that can reduce a person's recovery based on their share of responsibility. A smaller number of jurisdictions use stricter contributory-negligence rules. The precise rule depends on the state and circumstances.

Suppose a driver suffers $100,000 in legally compensable damages but is found partly responsible for the accident.

If the applicable state uses a comparative-fault system, the driver's recovery may be reduced according to the applicable rule.

But the details differ substantially among jurisdictions.

Some states use different forms of comparative negligence, while a small number retain contributory-negligence rules that can be much stricter.

Therefore, do not rely on a generic "50/50 accident" rule.

The state where the accident occurred and the specific facts can materially change the result.

What Is a No-Fault Insurance State?

Quick Answer: In a no-fault automobile insurance system, an injured person's own insurance may generally provide certain first-party benefits for accident-related injuries regardless of who caused the crash, subject to the state's rules and policy terms. Serious-injury exceptions and other limitations can apply.

The United States does not have one uniform automobile insurance system.

States generally use either tort-based systems or no-fault systems, with significant differences in how claims are handled.

The NAIC explains that state insurance systems determine the types of coverage available and that, in no-fault systems, an insurer generally pays certain injury-related losses directly to its insured regardless of fault, subject to the applicable system.

This distinction matters because an injured person may have different options for pursuing compensation depending on the state.

For that reason, a national article should not promise that every accident victim can sue the other driver—or that every injury must be handled exclusively through the victim's own insurer.

What Happens After You File an Insurance Claim?

Quick Answer: After a claim is reported, the insurer generally investigates the loss, reviews the available evidence and policy coverage, assesses damages, and determines what payment, if any, is available under the policy and applicable law.

An insurance claim is not necessarily resolved immediately.

The process may involve:

1. Opening the claim;

2. Assigning a claims adjuster;

3. Reviewing accident information;

4. Inspecting vehicle damage;

5. Reviewing photographs and reports;

6. Evaluating coverage;

7. Assessing liability where relevant;

8. Calculating covered losses; and

9. Making a settlement or coverage decision.

The NAIC explains that insurers generally assign claims adjusters to investigate claims and assess damage.

What If You Disagree With the Insurer?

Start by asking the insurer to explain its decision.

Keep written records of communications.

Ask for relevant decisions or explanations in writing where appropriate.

If you cannot resolve the dispute, your state insurance department may provide consumer assistance.

The NAIC states that state insurance departments can investigate certain complaints involving claim delays, denials, policy issues, and violations of state insurance laws.

A state insurance department is not your personal lawyer and generally does not act as your legal counsel in court, but it can be an important consumer resource.

What If the Other Driver Is Uninsured?

Quick Answer: If the other driver does not have insurance, possible sources of compensation may depend on your own policy, state law, and the circumstances of the accident. Uninsured- and underinsured-motorist coverage may be relevant where available.

Do not assume that an uninsured driver means you have no options.

Depending on the policy and jurisdiction, relevant coverage might include:

• Uninsured motorist coverage;

• Underinsured motorist coverage;

• Medical payments coverage;

• Personal injury protection; or

• Other applicable insurance.

Coverage requirements and availability vary by state.

Review your policy and, when necessary, obtain professional advice about your specific circumstances.

What If the Other Driver Leaves the Scene?

Quick Answer: A driver who leaves the scene may be involved in a hit-and-run. If you are the victim, prioritize safety, call law enforcement, document the available evidence, and notify your insurer promptly.

If possible, record:

• Vehicle make and model;

• Color;

• License plate number;

• Direction of travel;

• Driver description;

• Location;

• Time;

• Witness information; and

• Any available video.

Do not chase the fleeing vehicle.

Your safety is more important than obtaining additional information.

The NAIC recommends promptly contacting police when a vehicle is damaged by a hit-and-run driver.

Common Mistakes After a Car Accident

The following mistakes can complicate an otherwise manageable claim.

1. Failing to document the scene

Photos can preserve information that disappears later.

2. Waiting unnecessarily long to report the accident

Insurance policies may contain notice requirements. The NAIC recommends contacting the insurer as soon as possible.

3. Ignoring medical symptoms

Seek appropriate medical care when symptoms develop.

4. Destroying records

Keep all relevant documents.

5. Guessing about facts

Do not invent speeds, distances, times, or other details.

6. Assuming the other driver's insurance will automatically pay

Insurance coverage depends on the applicable policy, facts, and law.

7. Assuming every state follows the same fault rules

They do not.

8. Discussing the accident publicly on social media

Consider keeping accident-related discussions private, particularly when there is a disputed claim or potential litigation.

9. Accepting legal conclusions from the other driver

Another driver's statement that "you are at fault" does not necessarily determine legal liability.

10. Assuming a minor accident cannot become a serious claim

Injuries, vehicle damage, and insurance disputes can become apparent only later.

When Should You Talk to a Car Accident Lawyer?

Quick Answer: Consider consulting a qualified attorney when an accident involves significant injuries, death, disputed fault, substantial damages, an uninsured or underinsured driver, a commercial vehicle, a government vehicle, multiple potentially responsible parties, or a serious dispute with an insurer.

Not every car accident requires a lawyer.

For a straightforward collision involving minor property damage, the insurance process may be relatively simple.

Legal advice may become more important when the stakes or complexity increase.

Examples include:

• Serious or permanent injuries;

• Fatality;

• Traumatic brain injury;

• Spinal injury;

• Major surgery;

• Long-term disability;

• Significant lost income;

• Disputed liability;

• Multiple vehicles;

• Commercial trucks;

• Rideshare vehicles;

• Government vehicles;

• Uninsured drivers;

• Underinsured drivers;

• Insurance coverage disputes;

• Possible bad-faith issues; or

• A lawsuit or formal legal claim.

A lawyer can explain the law applicable to your circumstances and jurisdiction.

How Long Do You Have to File a Car Accident Claim?

Quick Answer: There is no single nationwide deadline for every car accident claim. The applicable statute of limitations depends on the type of claim and the law of the relevant jurisdiction. Different deadlines may apply to personal injury, property damage, wrongful death, and claims involving government entities.

This is one of the most important reasons not to delay legal research after a serious accident.

A statute of limitations is a legal deadline for filing certain claims in court.

The deadline may depend on:

• The state;

• Type of injury;

• Type of claim;

• Defendant;

• Government involvement;

• Date of injury;

• Discovery rules; and

• Other statutory exceptions.

Because these rules can be complicated, a national article should not give one universal number of years.

If you believe you may have a legal claim, determine the applicable deadline promptly.

What Compensation May Be Available After a Car Accident?

Quick Answer: Depending on the circumstances and applicable law, compensation after a car accident may include certain medical expenses, vehicle or property damage, lost income, and other legally recognized losses. The availability and amount of compensation depend on the facts, insurance coverage, and state law.

Potential categories can include:

Medical Expenses

Depending on applicable law and coverage:

• Emergency treatment;

• Hospital bills;

• Physician visits;

• Rehabilitation;

• Prescription medication; and

• Future medical care.

Property Damage

Potentially:

• Vehicle repairs;

• Vehicle replacement;

• Towing;

• Storage;

• Rental transportation; and

• Other covered property losses.

Lost Income

A qualifying claim may potentially involve income lost because of accident-related injuries.

Other Damages

Depending on the applicable law and circumstances, additional categories may exist.

Do not assume that every accident victim automatically receives compensation for every category listed above.

Coverage and recoverability depend on the particular case.

Car Accident Checklist

Use this checklist as a practical reminder after a collision.

• Stop and remain at the scene as required by law.

• Check yourself and others for injuries.

• Call 911 when emergency assistance is needed.

• Identify immediate hazards.

• Move the vehicle out of traffic if safe and appropriate.

• Exchange driver information.

• Exchange insurance information.

• Record license plate numbers.

• Photograph vehicle damage.

• Photograph the surrounding roadway.

• Record weather and road conditions.

• Identify witnesses.

• Record witness contact information.

• Ask about nearby surveillance cameras.

• Seek appropriate medical attention.

• Obtain the police or crash report information.

• Notify your insurance company.

• Record your claim number.

• Keep medical records and bills.

• Keep repair estimates and receipts.

• Keep insurance correspondence.

• Keep a communication log.

• Check applicable state deadlines.

• Consider consulting an attorney if the accident is serious or disputed.

Frequently Asked Questions

What should I do immediately after a car accident?

Prioritize safety, check for injuries, call 911 when appropriate, remain at the scene, move your vehicle if it is safe and permitted, exchange information, document the collision, seek medical attention when necessary, and notify your insurance company.

Should I call the police after a minor car accident?

It depends on the circumstances and the law of the state where the accident occurred. Police involvement may be required for certain injuries, deaths, property damage, or other circumstances. If you are unsure, check the applicable state requirements.

Should I admit fault after a car accident?

Avoid making an admission of legal fault at the scene. Provide accurate factual information to police and insurers, but do not speculate about legal responsibility.

What information should I exchange after an accident?

Generally, exchange identifying information, contact information, driver's license information where appropriate, insurance information, vehicle details, and license plate information. Also obtain witness contact information when available.

Should I take pictures after a car accident?

Yes, if it is safe. Photograph vehicle damage, the overall scene, roadway conditions, traffic controls, debris, skid marks, and other potentially relevant evidence.

Should I see a doctor after a car accident if I don't feel injured?

If you develop symptoms or believe you may have been injured, seek appropriate medical attention. NHTSA advises people involved in crashes to seek immediate medical attention even if they think they are not injured.

How soon should I tell my insurance company about an accident?

Contact your insurer as soon as reasonably possible and follow the reporting requirements in your policy. Insurance policies may impose specific notice requirements or deadlines.

What if the other driver has no insurance?

Your options depend on your insurance policy and state law. Uninsured- or underinsured-motorist coverage may be relevant, depending on the circumstances.

What if the other driver leaves the scene?

Do not chase the vehicle. Contact law enforcement, record whatever information you can safely obtain, identify witnesses, and notify your insurer.

Do I need a lawyer after a car accident?

Not every accident requires an attorney. Legal advice may be particularly useful when there are serious injuries, disputed fault, substantial damages, multiple parties, uninsured or underinsured drivers, commercial vehicles, or significant insurance disputes.

How long do I have to sue after a car accident?

There is no single nationwide deadline. The applicable statute of limitations depends on the jurisdiction and type of claim. Additional rules may apply to claims against government entities.

Can I still make a claim if I was partly responsible for the accident?

Possibly. Many states use some form of comparative-fault system, while others apply different negligence rules. The effect of your percentage of responsibility depends on the law of the applicable jurisdiction.

What if the insurance company denies my claim?

Review the denial and your policy, communicate with the insurer, preserve documentation, and consider contacting your state insurance department if appropriate. A state insurance department may be able to investigate certain consumer complaints involving claim handling.

Conclusion

A car accident can turn an ordinary day into a complicated safety, medical, insurance, and legal problem. The best response is to take the situation step by step.

Start with safety.

Check for injuries.

Call emergency services when necessary.

Remain at the scene and comply with applicable state law.

Exchange information.

Document the accident.

Seek appropriate medical attention.

Notify your insurer.

Preserve your records.

Then determine whether additional legal or insurance assistance is necessary.

Most importantly, remember that there is no single set of rules governing every car accident in the United States. State law can affect reporting requirements, insurance systems, negligence standards, deadlines, and potential compensation.

If your accident involves significant injuries, disputed responsibility, substantial financial losses, an uninsured or underinsured driver, or a serious insurance dispute, obtaining advice from a qualified attorney in the relevant jurisdiction may be appropriate.

Legal Disclaimer

This article is provided for general educational and informational purposes only. It is not legal advice and should not be treated as a substitute for advice from a licensed attorney.

Car accident laws vary significantly among states. Insurance requirements, reporting obligations, negligence standards, comparative-fault rules, no-fault systems, statutes of limitations, available damages, and procedures may differ depending on where the accident occurred and the specific facts.

Nothing in this article creates an attorney-client relationship. If you need legal advice regarding a particular accident, injury, insurance claim, or potential lawsuit, consult a qualified attorney licensed in the applicable jurisdiction.

Decision Tree

Title:
What Should You Do Immediately After a Car Accident?

Branches:

Are there injuries?

→ Yes → Call 911 → Obtain emergency medical assistance

→ No → Continue safety assessment

Is the vehicle creating a danger?

→ Yes → Move if safe and permitted

→ No → Remain safely at scene

Can you safely document the accident?

→ Yes → Photograph/video/evidence

→ No → Prioritize safety