What to Do After a Car Accident: A Step-by-Step Checklist
Accidents are stressful, and it’s easy to forget something important. Keep this checklist in mind, or saved on your phone, for the moments that count.
Quick checklist
- Check for injuries first and call 911 if anyone is hurt or the road is blocked.
- Move to a safe spot if you can, and turn on your hazard lights.
- Exchange names, contact details, insurance information and license plate numbers.
- Photograph the scene, the damage and any injuries, and get witness details.
- Report the accident to your insurer promptly, and avoid admitting fault at the scene.
The minutes after a crash are confusing. Following a few steps in order protects your safety, your health and your insurance claim.
At the scene
- Check for injuries. Call 911 if anyone is hurt, if there’s a fire risk or if vehicles are blocking traffic.
- Get safe. If your car can be moved and it’s safe to do so, move it out of traffic. Turn on your hazard lights.
- Call the police when required, or when the situation calls for it. Ask how to get a copy of the report.
- Exchange information with the other driver:
- Name, phone number and address
- Insurance company and policy number
- Driver’s license and license plate numbers
- Vehicle make, model and color
- Document everything. Take photos of all vehicles, damage, the road, traffic signs and any injuries. Note the time and location.
- Talk to witnesses and get their contact details.
Watch out
Stay calm and stick to the facts. Don’t argue about who caused the accident or apologize in a way that could be read as admitting fault. Fault is decided later, based on the evidence.
In the next day or two
- Tell your insurer as soon as possible, even if you don’t plan to file a claim. Policies require prompt notice.
- See a doctor if you have any pain or symptoms.
- Keep records of medical visits, towing, rental cars and any time off work.
- Report to your state if required; some states require a written report to the motor vehicle agency within a set number of days.
What happens next
Your insurer will open a claim and assign an adjuster. Our guide to filing an auto insurance claim explains the process, and if your car is badly damaged, see our guide to total losses.
Driver tip
Save a note on your phone with your insurer’s claims number, your policy number and this checklist, so you have everything in one place.
Driver questions
Do I have to call the police?
Many states require reporting accidents involving injuries, deaths or damage above a certain amount. Even when it’s not required, a police report can help with your claim.
Should I see a doctor if I feel fine?
It’s wise to get checked if you have any symptoms. Some injuries, such as whiplash, may not be obvious right away, and medical records support injury claims.
What if the other driver doesn’t have insurance?
Get their details anyway and report it to the police and your insurer. Uninsured motorist coverage may help; see our guide to it.
What if it’s a hit-and-run?
Call the police right away, note anything you remember about the other vehicle, and tell your insurer.
Car insurance rules vary by state and by policy. This guide is general information, not legal or insurance advice; check your policy and your state insurance department for details.