What to Do After a Car Accident

Do you know the proper steps to take after a car accident? Car accidents can be frightening, and dealing with the aftermath may seem confusing.

1. Look for injuries. Inspect yourself and any passengers for injuries. Avoid moving anyone who is seriously injured (yourself included). Call 911 right away or ask a bystander to call if there are injuries. If it is safe to do so, check on the other drivers involved.
2. Move to safety. If your car can be driven, cautiously move it out of traffic to the side of the road. Use your hazard/warning lights and turn your car off after it’s moved. If your vehicle cannot be moved, focus on getting yourself and passengers out of traffic to safety.
3. Call the police. Call 911 or the police nonemergency number, depending on the severity of the accident. Depending on the location, this may be a legal requirement in certain situations. Contacting the police right away also begins a police report, which can be vital for an insurance claim.
4. Document the scene and exchange driver information. Write down the location where the accident occurred and take pictures of the scene. Get different angles and include shots of all vehicle damage—yours and the other driver’s. This documentation can be important for an accurate police report and can help establish fault. Speak with the other driver(s) involved and exchange information. Get their name, address, contact information, insurance details (e.g., insurer and policy number), license number and plate number. Document the vehicle color, make and model if you can. If there are bystanders, ask if any are willing to provide their contact information.
5. Get a copy of the police report. When the police arrive, document the officers’ names and badge numbers. Ask them where and when you can obtain a copy of the incident report, which you may need for your insurance claim.
6. Contact your insurer to file a claim. Call your insurance agent right away after a car accident. You may even consider calling them from the scene of the accident.

There may be different legal requirements following an accident, such as notifying your local Department of Motor Vehicles. We can explain this process and other responsibilities that may apply to you.

Contact TIG Advisors today for help reviewing your car insurance policy. We’ll help ensure you fully understand what to do after an accident and how your insurance can help in the aftermath.

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