The steps you take right after a crash can make or break a future claim. Here's a calm, practical checklist.
A car accident is stressful, and the choices you make in the first two days can shape any insurance claim or lawsuit that follows. This guide walks through the practical steps in plain English.
At the scene
Check for injuries and call 911 if anyone is hurt. Move to safety, exchange insurance and contact details, and take photos of the vehicles, the road, and any visible injuries. If police respond, ask how to get a copy of the report.
In the next two days
See a doctor even if you feel fine — some injuries surface later, and a medical record links your injuries to the crash. Report the accident to your insurer, but be careful about giving recorded statements or accepting a quick settlement before you understand your injuries.
When to call a lawyer
If anyone was seriously injured, fault is disputed, or an insurer is pressuring you, it is worth speaking with a personal-injury attorney. Many work on a contingency fee, meaning you pay only if you recover.