What to Do After a Car Accident: A Step-by-Step Guide

The moments immediately following a car accident are often a blur of adrenaline, confusion, and anxiety. It is difficult to think clearly when you are checking for injuries or assessing damage to your vehicle. However, the actions you take in these critical minutes and hours can significantly impact your ability to recover fair compensation later. 

At Simon Law Group, we understand that navigating the aftermath of a crash is overwhelming. We have designed this guide to be a quick, actionable resource. Whether you are reading this at the scene or days later, these steps will help you protect your legal rights and build a strong foundation for your case. 

Phase 1: Immediate Actions at the Scene 

If you have just been in a crash, your safety is the absolute priority. Once you are out of immediate danger, shift your focus to documentation. 

1. Stop and Ensure Safety 

• Move to safety: If your vehicle is drivable and blocking traffic, move it to the shoulder. If it isn't, turn on your hazard lights and stay inside with your seatbelt on until help arrives, unless there is smoke or fire. 

• Check for injuries: Assess yourself and your passengers. Adrenaline can mask pain, so be thorough. 

• Call 911: Even in minor accidents, an official police report is crucial for insurance claims and legal proceedings. 

2. Gather Critical Evidence 

Do not rely on the police to document everything. You need your own record of the scene. 

• Take photos: Photograph vehicle damage from multiple angles, skid marks, traffic signs, weather conditions, and visible injuries. 

• Exchange information: Get the other driver’s name, phone number, address, insurance policy number, and license plate number. 

• Identify witnesses: If anyone saw the crash, ask for their name and contact information. Their testimony can be invaluable if liability is disputed. 

3. Watch What You Say

• Be polite but guarded: Check on the other driver, but do not apologize or admit fault. A simple "I'm sorry" can be used against you later as an admission of liability. 

• Stick to facts: When speaking to the police, state clearly what happened without speculating. If you don't know the answer to a question, simply say "I don't know." 

Phase 2: The First 24 Hours 

Once you leave the scene, the clock starts ticking on your health and your potential claim. 

4. Seek Medical Attention Immediately 

• Go to a doctor: Even if you feel fine, go to urgent care or your primary physician. Injuries like whiplash, concussions, or internal bleeding may not show symptoms for hours or days. 

• Create a medical record: By seeing a doctor immediately, you establish a direct link between the accident and your injuries. Insurance companies often argue that gaps in treatment mean the injuries weren't serious or were caused by something else. 

5. Report the Accident to Your Insurance 

• Notify your insurer: Call your insurance company to report the accident. Most policies require this within a specific timeframe. 

• Keep it brief: Provide the basic facts- where, when, and who was involved. 

• Do not give a recorded statement yet: You are not obligated to provide a detailed recorded statement immediately, especially if you are in pain or on medication. Wait until you have consulted with an attorney. 

6. Start an Accident File 

Organization is key to a successful claim. Start a physical or digital folder containing:

• The police report number. 

• Photos from the scene. 

• Contact info for the other driver and witnesses. 

• Insurance claim numbers. 

Phase 3: The Days and Weeks Following 

As you recover, the insurance companies will begin their investigation. This is where having professional support becomes vital. 

7. Document Your Recovery 

• Keep a journal: Write down how your injuries affect your daily life. Can you sleep? Can you lift your children? Did you miss work? 

• Track expenses: Save receipts for everything related to the accident- medical copays, prescriptions, rental car costs, and even taxi fares to doctor appointments. 

8. Be Wary of Early Settlement Offers 

• Do not sign anything: Insurance adjusters often try to settle claims quickly for a low amount before the full extent of your injuries is known. Once you sign a release, you cannot ask for more money later, even if you need surgery. 

• Know the value of your claim: Compensation should cover not just current medical bills, but future treatments, lost wages, and pain and suffering. 

9. Consult with a Personal Injury Attorney

Complex accidents involving significant injuries or disputed liability require expert legal guidance. A specialized attorney can handle the insurance companies, gather evidence, and ensure you are not taken advantage of. 

At Simon Law Group, we have over 80 years of combined experience protecting Arizona residents. We handle the legal burden so you can focus on healing. 

Summary Checklist 

If you are ever unsure of what to do, refer to this quick checklist: 

• Safety First: Call 911 and check for injuries. 

• Document: Take photos of damage, injuries, and the scene. 

• Exchange Info: Get insurance and contact details from the other driver. 

• Silence: Do not admit fault or apologize. 

• Medical Care: See a doctor immediately, even if you feel okay. 

• Report: Notify your insurer but avoid recorded statements. 

• Call a Lawyer: Contact Simon Law Group for a free consultation before accepting any offers. 

Navigating the aftermath of a car accident is stressful, but you do not have to do it alone. By taking these steps, you protect your future and ensure that justice is within reach.