Getting into a car accident can be frightening, but knowing what to do afterward can help you navigate this unfortunate event with more confidence. It’s essential to ensure everyone is safe and uninjured, exchange contact and insurance information, and report the car crash to the authorities.
Car accidents can be fatal, and according to the Department of Transportation, more than 35,000 people died in car accidents in 2025. Nonetheless, many of the same steps apply regardless of whether it’s a minor or major accident. Here, we offer a car accident checklist and some accident safety tips so you know what to do if you’re ever involved in one.
What to Do After a Car Accident?
Knowing the post-accident procedure before having a car accident can make the whole process less stressful and make your insurance claim stronger. Here are the most important steps you should take.
Check Everyone’s Safe and Uninjured
First and foremost, if you’re physically able, check whether everyone involved is okay. Whiplash is common in minor accidents and will need to be treated by a doctor. If you can drive the car, move it to a safer location and turn on your hazard lights.
If you can, put up reflective triangles to warn other drivers of your stationary vehicle. If anyone is injured, the best thing to do is to call 911 and wait for paramedics and police to arrive at the scene.
Exchange Information With the Other Party
Assuming no one is severely injured, the next step is to exchange information with the other driver. You should exchange:
- Names
- Phone numbers
- Driver’s license details
- Insurance details
Sometimes you might come across a driver who is unwilling to share their information with you. In this case, avoid confrontation, contact the police, and let them deal with the other driver.
Document The Accident Scene
Fortunately, almost everyone has a cellphone that can take photos, so the next step in the post-accident procedure is to document the scene. Photos taken with a cellphone will be time-stamped, and ensure you get images of:
- Any vehicle damage
- License plates
- The area surrounding the crash site
Another thing to note is the weather conditions at the time of the accident. Gathering all essential information can help you when you make a claim from insurance. If there were any witnesses, get their information as well.
Contact Law Enforcement
If you haven’t contacted law enforcement yet, now’s the time to do so. In many states, it’s mandatory to report the accident to the authorities or file a report.
Ensure you check the laws in your state so you know the requirements in advance. You also want to keep a copy of the report to submit with your insurance claim.
Contacting law enforcement can also help with documenting the incident. Even if the other party is in agreement about what or who caused the accident, there’s no guarantee that they’ll hold the same opinion later on.
Inform Your Insurance Company
You can do the next few steps after you leave the accident scene, but they are equally important as the first steps. Now is the time to report the accident to your insurance company. If you take too long to report the incident, your insurance company can delay the processing or even potentially deny your claim entirely.
Get Your Vehicle Repaired
Finally, once your insurance company pays your claim, you can get your car repaired. Often, you’ll need to get authorization from your insurance company to ensure the repairs are covered under your policy.
Your insurance company will have a list of preferred repair shops, which can be helpful if you’re unsure who to use, but you can also choose your own repair shop. However, it’s vital to remember that your insurance company still needs to approve the estimate before you can go ahead. If the shop finds additional damage during the repairs, they need to report it to the insurance company so those extra repairs are covered.
When Do You Need a Lawyer?
Seeking car accident legal advice can greatly help you navigate this stressful event, and someone like a Seattle car accident lawyer can help, especially if you’ve sustained injuries or been to the hospital after the accident. An experienced lawyer can thoroughly evaluate your case and give you an estimate of its value.
If you’re not comfortable communicating with your insurance company or negotiating a fair settlement, they can help with both. A car accident lawyer can also be invaluable if your case can’t be resolved through negotiation. In this case, they can provide legal representation in court.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Are the 5 W’s When Submitting a Claim?
The five W’s when submitting a claim are:
- Who
- What
- Where
- When
- Why
The “Who” documents who was involved in the accident, who provided treatment, and who witnessed the accident. The “What” refers to what caused the accident, what the weather conditions were, and what the injuries were.
The “Where” documents where the accident took place, and the “When” details when the accident occurred (i.e., the exact time and date), when the authorities were notified, and when treatment was provided. Finally, the “Why” covers why the accident happened and why medical personnel were involved.
Will My Insurance Premiums Go Up After a Claim?
Typically, yes, your monthly insurance premiums will go up after a claim is processed if the accident was your fault or if your insurance company found the accident preventable. Your insurance company decides by how much your premiums could go up, typically rising by 20% to 50%, but this amount can vary depending on who your insurer is.
From Crisis to Control
Being involved in a car accident is something no one wants to happen, but when it does, it’s vital to know what to do. Knowing ahead of time can help when adrenaline is pumping and everything seems chaotic.
Remember to check for injuries, move the car to safety, exchange information, and document everything. Contacting the authorities is vital, and enlisting the help of an experienced lawyer can help your claim.
If this guide helped you navigate a difficult moment, find more legal and safety resources in our News section.
