What To Do–And Not Do-After A Traffic Accident

Finding yourself in a car accident can be not only physically dangerous, but psychologically traumatizing as well. But thinking fast and taking the right steps in the immediate aftermath of an accident not only helps you get through the ordeal, but potentially preserves your rights and options moving forward as well.

What to Do (The Dos)

• Check for injuries: Assess yourself and your passengers immediately.
• Move to safety: Pull drivable vehicles to the shoulder or a safe area off the main road.
• Make yourself visible: Turn on hazard lights and deploy road flares or reflective triangles.
• Call 911: Report the accident so emergency services and police are dispatched to file an official report.
• Exchange essential information: Swap names, phone numbers, license plates, and insurance policy details.
• Document everything: Photograph vehicle damage, license plates, road conditions, traffic signs, and any visible injuries.
• Gather witness details: Collect names and phone numbers of bystanders who saw the collision.
• Seek medical attention: Go to a doctor or urgent care promptly, as injuries like whiplash or internal bleeding often have delayed symptoms.
• Notify your insurer: Report the incident to your insurance provider as soon as possible to start the claims process.
• Contact an attorney: This true if you are at-fault or not at fault.

What NOT to Do (The Don’ts)

• Do not flee the scene: Leaving the scene of an accident is illegal and carries severe criminal penalties.
• Do not admit fault: Avoid saying “I’m sorry” or taking blame, as insurance adjusters and police will determine fault based on evidence.
• Do not stand between vehicles: Secondary impacts are common and standing between damaged cars puts you at risk of being crushed.
• Do not move seriously injured people: Avoid moving anyone who is severely hurt unless there is an immediate threat like a vehicle fire.
• Do not give recorded statements: Refuse to provide recorded statements to the other driver’s insurance adjuster until you have consulted legal counsel.
• Do not sign documents blindly: Do not sign waivers or accept quick settlement offers from insurance companies before knowing the full extent of your injuries and damages.
• Do not post on social media: Keep details, photos, and updates about the accident off your social profiles, as insurance companies monitor these to devalue claims.
• Do not trust unauthorized tow trucks: Beware of “bandit” tow trucks that arrive uncalled and attempt to take your car hostage for high fees; only use services dispatched by your insurer or the police.