TL;DR: Getting injured in a car accident is overwhelming, but knowing what to do next can help protect your health and your legal rights. This guide outlines practical steps to take immediately after a car accident injury to help you recover and prepare for any car accident claims or lawsuits that may follow.
- Call 911 to report injuries and create an official record.
- File a police report and never leave the scene until cleared.
- Document the accident scene with photos and notes.
- Exchange information without admitting fault.
- Notify your insurance company and save all related receipts.
- Get medical attention right away—even if injuries seem minor.
- Speak with a car accident injury attorney to explore your legal options.
These steps ensure your well-being and help strengthen your case if you pursue a car accident lawsuit.
Nearly every American with a driver’s license will experience at least one accident in their lifetime. As common as it may be, knowing what to do after a car accident can help protect your health and legal rights. If you’ve recently sustained a car accident injury, we’re here to help.
This guide breaks down clear steps to take following a car accident injury. Follow these steps to learn how to care for your health. Plus, learn how to preserve evidence for any car accident claims or legal action you may take.
Step 1: Stay Calm and Check for Injuries
Take a deep breath and try to stay calm. Check yourself and your passengers for any injuries. Even if injuries seem minor, it’s important to call 911 immediately.
While EMS will help, calling 911 also creates an official record of the incident. That can be helpful if you choose to take legal action as a result of the accident.
Step 2: Call the Police and Remain at the Scene
Likewise, even in a minor accident, it’s wise (and often legally required) to notify the police. Upon contacting the police, you can file an official report. A police report will document key details. It can be invaluable later on if you file an insurance claim or a car accident lawsuit.
If you’ve never filed a police report, don’t panic. Just call 911 or the local police department to report the crash. They will patiently walk you through the steps.
After calling, be sure to wait at the scene for officers to arrive. In fact, we advise you to never leave the scene of the accident, even if you were not at fault. If you leave, you may face legal penalties.
Step 3: Document the Scene and Collect Evidence
Gather as much information as possible at the accident scene. This should only be a priority assuming you aren’t severely injured and it is safe to do so.
Use your phone camera to take photos of:
- The vehicle damage
- The overall scene
- Skid marks
- Any visible injuries
Also, write down the time, location, and weather conditions at the scene. These details will help support your case and refresh your memory later.
Step 4: Exchange Information (But Don’t Admit Fault)
Provide your name, contact info, and insurance information to the other driver, and get the same from them. Crucially, do not apologize or admit fault for the accident. Unfortunately, even a simple apology can be taken as an admission of liability. We realize it’s challenging, but try to avoid speculating or blaming yourself in the moment.
Step 5: Notify Your Insurance Company
Report the accident to your auto insurance company as soon as possible to begin the claims process. Provide the basic facts of what happened, as well as a copy of the police report, if available. Ask for the claim number and the adjuster’s contact information so you can follow up later.
Try to save all receipts and records related to the accident. These might include towing bills, rental car costs, and other expenses. Your insurance company may ask for this documentation, and it’s helpful to have it available.
Step 6: Seek Medical Attention and Keep Records
Many car accident injuries aren’t obvious right away. Even if you feel fine, get a medical check-up as soon as possible. Adrenaline can mask the symptoms of injuries, including serious but common car accident injuries like whiplash.
Seeing a doctor creates an official record linking your injuries to the accident. Keep copies of all medical records and bills as evidence.
Step 7: Consult an Experienced Car Accident Attorney
Once your immediate needs are addressed, speak with a car accident injury attorney about your legal options. An experienced lawyer can:
- Help preserve critical evidence
- Conduct a formal investigation
- Handle communications with insurance companies on your behalf
- Fight for fair compensation through an insurance settlement or a car accident lawsuit
Remember, you don’t have to navigate the aftermath alone. If you’ve been injured in a car accident and need help navigating your legal options, we’re here to help. Reach out now for a case review with Tate Accident Law.
