What to Do if You Are in a Car Accident: 15 Tips  

If you are involved in a car accident and not sure what to do, this guide provides step-by-step instructions. No one wants and expects to be in a car accident, but many automobile accidents happen every day. Statistics show that nearly all of us will be in an auto accident at some time. Knowing what to do when an automobile accident occurs is important. It can make all the difference if you, your family or friends are hurt and need help.

Step 1: Get help if needed - Medical care within the first hour after an injury is critical
Check to see if you or any passengers with you were injured in the automobile accident. Do not hesitate to call “911” for medical help if anyone needs medical attention. If anyone is unconscious, it is best not to move them unless absolutely necessary as moving them could make their injuries worse. If you must move the person, make sure to keep their head and neck supported the entire time.

Step 2: Safely get out of the way of traffic
If your car is not starting or driving it is dangerous, turn on your warning lights or open your hood to warn other drivers in the area. Your safety is most important.

Step 3: Notify the police if the automobile accident involves damage, injury or death
In most states this is required by law before you can leave the scene if anyone is injured, or there is any significant property damage. It’s a mistake to just exchange names and phone numbers with the other driver and leave the scene. Call the police. Be sure to get the name of the officer at the scene and write it down.

Step 4: Get crucial information
Get contact information from the other driver or drivers. Jot down their name, address, phone number and insurance information. Make a note of the color, make and model of the other vehicles, and the license plates if you can. The police officer can help you get all this information, and will often have a form for you to exchange with the other driver(s) involved. Do not be afraid to ask such information, or for the form.

Step 5: Identify witnesses
Get the names and contact information of anyone who saw the accident. If you can, do this quickly. Often, people who saw the car wreck or collision will stop for a short time, but leave before the police arrive. Other motorists, passengers or pedestrians can be critical witnesses. Get their name and phone number.

Step 6: Make sure to obtain police officer's information
Should a problem arise, you can try contacting the officer for help or advice. Get his/her name, badge number, and city.

Step 7: Take pictures of everything
“A picture is worth a thousand words.” As long as it can be done safely, suggest that you take pictures of everything, including but not limited to all vehicles in the automobile accident as well as the location of the automobile accident. It is a good idea to keep a disposable camera in your glove compartment or trunk. Today most of us have a camera built into our cell phones. If you can, and it is safe, take pictures of the vehicles before they are moved. Pictures of the damage and position of the vehicles can be very important. They can prove how the car crash happened and document the force of the collision. This can be helpful evidence if the accident caused any injuries. If you are not able to take pictures, ask one of your passengers who is alright, or a witness, to do it for you. After you get emergency care and are home, remember to take pictures of your injuries - any cuts, bruises or bandages, and any casts or crutches. It is particularly important to take a picture of any seat belt bruise on the front of your shoulders and chest. This bruise may not develop right away. Taking a picture of it can keep the other side from claiming that you were not wearing a seat belt. Pictures may help your auto insurance company determine how much you should be paid for your injuries. Don't forget to take pics as these photos may play a much bigger role in determinig liability then you expect.

Step 8: Draw a diagram of the accident
Try doing it as soon as possible while everything is still fresh in your head.

Step 9: Do not discuss fault
Do not blame the other driver even if they were clearly at fault. It may just start an argument. But, if the other driver admits it was their fault, make a mental note of it. When you get home, jot down precisely what you remember them saying. Even if you feel you may have been partially at fault, do not say anything that admits your feeling. "Fault" is often a complex determination based on the facts and complicated laws. Leave that issue for the police to decide - or a car accident attorney, if necessary.

Step 10: Write a note to yourself afterward
After the accident write a note to yourself (and possibly for your attorney, if you later need one). Include all the information you have gathered and can remember while it is fresh in your mind. Explain how the accident happened as best you can. Drawing a sketch or diagram of the collision will be a helpful memory aid later on. It may be months, or even years, before the insurance companies fully resolve any claims.

Step 11: Schedule an appointment with your doctor?
Sometimes there are injuries right after an accident takes place. Many people who are injured do not realize it right after an accident, so it is always wise to see your doctor to make sure you are okay. You may need to file a personal injury claim.

Step 12: Call your insurance agent
All insurance policies require you to notify your insurance company. This must be done shortly after the accident. Unnecessary delay in telling your insurance company about the crash can result in a denial of your claim.

Step 13: Consult a car accident attorney
Before speaking to the insurance company, consult an experienced car accident attorney. Many times the insurance companies will try to settle for less than you deserve, especially when injuries are involved. It is a great idea to find out all of your options with a FREE telephone or office consultation from your local car accidents lawyer to discuss your legal rights.

Step 14: File necessary state accident reports
In most states, if anyone is injured or there is significant property damage to the vehicles you must file a State Accident Report. The form, with directions, can be obtained from the police department. In some States this report must be filed within 10 days after the accident.

Step 15: Protect your rights
To protect your rights you must act quickly and correctly after a motor vehicle accident. Deciding fault can be complicated. Insurance coverage, and how you will get your medical bills paid, can be very confusing and frustrating. Insurance adjusters may call and ask you to give them a tape recorded statement. Should you do that? You may have many questions about your rights, and your obligations to insurance representatives. You may have questions whether the insurance companies are treating you fairly. Do not jeopardize your rights. Call an experienced lawyer who specializes in car accident and injury claims for advice and answers to your questions. An attorney will help you get a fair car accident settlement for your damages and injuries.