What to Do After a Car Accident

Being involved in a car accident can be stressful and overwhelming. Even a minor fender bender can leave you unsure of what to do next.

Knowing the right steps to take after an accident can help protect your safety, support the claims process, and make a difficult situation easier to manage.

1. Check for Injuries and Move to Safety

Your first priority should always be safety.

Check yourself, your passengers, and others involved for injuries. If anyone is hurt, call 911 right away.

If the vehicles are creating a hazard and can be moved safely, move them out of traffic. Turn on your hazard lights and stay in a safe location while waiting for help.

2. Call the Police

Even if the accident seems minor, it is often a good idea to call the police.

A police report can provide an official record of the accident, which may be helpful during the insurance claims process. Be honest and factual when speaking with the officer, but avoid guessing or admitting fault at the scene.

3. Exchange Information

Exchange important information with the other driver, including:

• Name and contact information

• Insurance company and policy number

• Driver’s license number

• License plate number

• Vehicle make, model, and color

If there are witnesses, ask for their names and contact information as well.

4. Document the Scene

If it is safe to do so, take photos and videos before the vehicles are moved.

Capture:

• Vehicle damage

• License plates

• The accident location

• Road conditions

• Traffic signs or signals

• Skid marks or debris

• Any visible injuries

The more documentation you have, the easier it may be to explain what happened.

5. Avoid Discussing Fault

It is natural to want to apologize after an accident, but try to avoid making statements that could be interpreted as admitting fault.

Stick to the facts when speaking with the other driver, police, and insurance company. Fault is determined based on the details of the accident, police reports, statements, evidence, and applicable laws.

6. Contact Your Insurance Agent or Company

Report the accident as soon as possible. Your insurance agent or carrier can explain what information is needed and what to expect next.

Depending on your policy, your coverage may include:

• Liability coverage

• Collision coverage

• Medical payments or personal injury protection

• Uninsured or underinsured motorist coverage

• Rental reimbursement

• Roadside assistance

Your agent can help you understand which coverages may apply.

7. Start the Claims Process

Once your claim is reported, an adjuster may be assigned to review the accident.

The adjuster may:

• Ask for your statement

• Review photos and documentation

• Inspect vehicle damage

• Review the police report

• Determine coverage under your policy

• Estimate repair costs

Keep copies of all claim-related documents, receipts, repair estimates, and communication.

8. Seek Medical Attention If Needed

Some injuries may not be obvious immediately after an accident. If you feel pain, discomfort, dizziness, or any unusual symptoms, seek medical attention.

Keep records of medical visits, bills, and treatment recommendations in case they are needed for your claim.

9. Choose a Repair Shop

Depending on your insurance company and policy, you may be able to choose your own repair shop. Some insurers also offer preferred repair networks.

Before authorizing repairs, make sure you understand your deductible, repair process, and whether rental car coverage is available under your policy.

10. Review Your Coverage Before the Next Accident

The best time to understand your auto insurance is before you need to use it.

After an accident—or during your annual policy review—ask your agent:

• Do I have enough liability coverage?

• Do I carry collision and comprehensive coverage?

• Do I have rental reimbursement?

• Do I have roadside assistance?

• Am I protected if the other driver is uninsured?

• Should I consider an umbrella policy?

We’re Here to Help

A car accident can happen in an instant, but having the right coverage and guidance can make the recovery process much smoother.

Our agency is here to help you understand your auto insurance, review your options, and guide you through the claims process when the unexpected happens.

If you have questions about your current auto policy or want to make sure you are properly protected, contact us today for a coverage review.