A car accident is a frightening and disorienting experience. In the chaotic moments that follow, it’s easy to forget crucial steps that can protect your legal rights and physical well-being. Knowing exactly what to do in the first 24 hours can make a monumental difference in the outcome of your personal injury claim.
At LforLaw, we’ve helped countless individuals navigate the aftermath of a crash. This step-by-step checklist is designed to give you a sense of control and ensure you have the information needed to move forward confidently.
The First Hour: Prioritize Safety & Documentation
1. Prioritize Safety & Get to a Safe Location
The immediate aftermath of an accident is dangerous. If possible and safe, move your vehicle to the side of the road, away from traffic. Turn on your hazard lights and, if you have them, set up cones or warning triangles.
2. Check for Injuries & Call 911
This is the most important step. Check yourself and anyone else involved for injuries. Even if you feel fine, injuries like whiplash or a concussion may not be immediately apparent. Call 911 immediately if there are serious injuries or the accident is significant.
3. Call the Police
Always call the police to file an official report, even for minor accidents. A police report provides an official, neutral account of the incident, which can be critical for your insurance claim and any legal proceedings. Get the officer’s name and badge number.
4. Exchange Information
Exchange the following information with all other drivers involved:
- Full Name and Contact Information
- Driver’s License Number
- License Plate Number
- Insurance Company and Policy Number
- Vehicle Make, Model, and Year
5. Document the Scene with Your Phone
Your smartphone is your most powerful tool. Take detailed photos and videos of everything:
- Damage to all vehicles involved.
- The overall scene, including any skid marks, traffic signs, or road conditions.
- License plates and driver’s licenses.
- Any visible injuries on yourself or others.
- Photos from different angles and distances.
6. Talk to Witnesses
If anyone witnessed the accident, politely ask for their name and contact information. Witness testimony can be invaluable in proving who was at fault.
The Next 23 Hours: Securing Your Claim & Well-being
7. Seek Medical Attention (Seriously!)
Even if you didn’t go to the hospital from the scene, you must see a doctor within 24 hours. A medical professional can diagnose injuries you might not feel yet. Documentation of your injuries in a medical report is a critical piece of evidence linking your injuries to the accident.
8. Notify Your Insurance Company
Call your own insurance company to report the accident. Be factual and stick to the basics. Do not admit fault or give a recorded statement about your injuries or the details of the accident without speaking to an attorney first.
9. Start a Dedicated Accident File
Create a physical or digital folder to keep all accident-related documents organized. This includes the police report, medical bills, correspondence with insurance companies, receipts for car repairs, and notes from your doctor’s visits.
10. Call a Personal Injury Attorney
Before you speak further with any insurance adjusters or sign any documents, contact an experienced personal injury attorney. Insurance companies are businesses that want to minimize payouts. An attorney will protect your rights, handle all communication with the insurance company, and build the strongest possible case on your behalf.
Your Best Bet for Peace of Mind
Following these steps provides a clear path forward during a confusing time. Your most critical move is to seek medical attention and contact a legal professional who can advocate for your best interests.
At LforLaw, our experienced attorneys are ready to help. We offer consultation to discuss your case, so you can focus on your recovery while we handle the legal complexities.
