What to Do After a Car Accident (And What Not to Do)

Being involved in a car accident can be a traumatic and overwhelming experience. In the aftermath of a collision, it’s crucial to stay calm and take the right steps. You want to ensure your safety, protect your rights, and navigate the legal and insurance processes effectively. Whether you’re dealing with minor fender benders or major collisions, knowing what to do after a car accident can make a significant difference in the outcome. Here, we’ll walk you through what to do (and what not to do) following a car accident.

Immediately Following the Accident:

DO:

• Contact the police. Even if you are at fault, a police report may show other issues that caused the accident, taking some of the responsibility off of you.
• Exchange information with all parties. This includes insurance information for any other drivers and contact information for all parties (including any witnesses).
• Seek medical attention. Even if you aren’t obviously injured, it’s wise to get evaluated by a medical professional. Some injuries from car accidents don’t show up immediately and it’s better to seek help early. Always ask for a detailed medical report listing injuries, prognosis, and any recommended treatment.
• Photograph the scene. Take as many photos of you can of the vehicles, scene, and any road hazards around the accident site. These can go a long way in telling the story of the accident.
• Report the car accident to your insurance company. Also report that there are injuries and that you plan on seeking medical attention.

DON’T:

• Leave the scene. Wait until the police arrive so they can gather all of the necessary information for the police report.
• Move your car. Unless it is a severe safety hazard, you want to leave your car where it is. This ensures an accurate report of the accident.
• Discuss the accident with anyone. This includes the other driver’s insurance or anyone other than first responders.
• Admit guilt or apologize. This can go a long way in proving your liability for the accident. Avoid phrases like “I’m so sorry, I wasn’t paying attention,” or “I didn’t mean to hit your car.”

Ongoing Actions:

DO:

• Request the police report. Be sure and save this to show your attorney.
• Contact a qualified personal injury attorney. Call Powers Taylor as soon as you can to ensure you are taking the correct steps to limit liability or maximize your recovery.
• Follow your doctor’s advice. Go to all recommended follow-up appointments, rest if your doctor tells you to, take necessary medications.
• Obtain receipts for any bills incurred as a result of the accident. This includes medical bills, prescriptions, car repairs, or outside help needed while you are recovering. Also keep written documentation of any missed wages.

DON’T:

• Sign settlement papers without speaking with an attorney. If the other person’s insurance offers you a settlement, have a qualified personal injury attorney review it first. You may be missing out on crucial payments resulting from your injuries.
• Discuss the accident with any insurance company (including your own). Give them your attorney’s phone number. We know what to say and what not to say to get the most out of your claim.
• Miss any doctor appointments or rehabilitation sessions. This can make it appear that you are not as injured as you claim.
• Post on social media until after you have settled your claim. The other side can use these posts to show that you aren’t as affected as you claim.

The most important thing to do immediately after an accident is make sure you and the other drivers are safe and seeking medical attention if needed. The sooner you contact a qualified personal injury attorney, like those at Powers Taylor, the better. We have decades of experience helping those involved in car accidents get the most out of their claims. We’re here to help so you can focus on recovering.