5 Important Steps Immediately After A Car Accident
What you do next can protect your health, your rights, and your ability to recover compensation. Here are five very important steps to take:
1. Check for Injuries and Call 911
First, make sure you and your passengers are safe.
Call 911 to report the accident, even if injuries seem minor. Some injuries aren’t obvious right away.
If you or anyone else is hurt, request an ambulance.
2. Move to a Safe Location (If Possible)
If your vehicle is drivable, move it out of traffic to prevent further accidents.
Turn on your hazard lights to warn other drivers.
If you can’t move your car, stay inside with your seatbelt on until help arrives.
3. Gather and Exchange Information
Get the other driver’s:
Name, address, and phone number
Driver’s license number
License plate number
Insurance company name and policy number
Collect contact information for any witnesses.
Take note of the make, model, and color of the other vehicle.
4. Document the Scene
Take clear photos and videos of:
All vehicles involved (damage from multiple angles)
The surrounding scene (skid marks, traffic signs, road conditions)
Any visible injuries
Write down the time, date, location, and weather conditions.
5. Seek Medical Attention and Contact a Lawyer
See a doctor as soon as possible, even if you feel fine. Some injuries, like whiplash or concussions, can take days to appear.
Keep all medical records and receipts.
Contact an experienced personal injury attorney before speaking to insurance companies, so your rights are protected from the start.
Remember:
Your safety and health come first. But the steps you take right after an accident can also make a big difference in your ability to recover damages later. Our firm is here to guide you through every step after a crash. No information contained above or in this website establishes an attorney-client relationship.