What to Do After a Car Accident: A Step-by-Step Guide
A car accident can be a stressful and overwhelming experience, but knowing what to do in the moments that follow can protect your health, finances, and legal rights. Whether it’s a minor fender bender or a major collision, following these steps can make a significant difference in handling insurance claims, medical treatment, and legal action.
1. Call the Police Immediately
The first thing you should do after a car accident is call 911. No matter how minor the accident seems, having a police report is crucial for insurance claims and legal cases.
When calling the emergency operator, provide:
- Your exact location (street name, intersection, or landmarks)
- Details about the accident (number of vehicles involved, injuries, road hazards)
- Whether medical assistance is needed
Once the police arrive, they will:
- Assess the scene and determine what happened
- Speak to witnesses and document their statements
- Draft an official police report, which will serve as key evidence
Never agree to settle the accident privately without calling the police. Without an official record, proving fault and obtaining compensation could become difficult.
2. Take Plenty of Photos and Videos
Before vehicles are moved, document everything at the scene. This evidence can be vital for insurance claims and legal action.
Be sure to take clear, high-quality photos of:
✔ All vehicles involved (including license plates)
✔ Damage to your car and other vehicles
✔ Skid marks, road signs, and traffic lights
✔ Debris, road hazards, or any other important details
✔ Your injuries and any injuries to passengers
Videos can also be useful, especially if there’s disagreement about fault. Save your photos in cloud storage to prevent accidental loss.
3. Seek Medical Attention – Even If You Feel Fine
Even if you feel fine, always get checked by a doctor. Some injuries, such as whiplash, concussions, and internal injuries, may not show symptoms right away. Seeking medical care immediately can:
- Ensure hidden injuries are detected early
- Strengthen your injury claim if symptoms appear later
- Provide necessary documentation for your case
Delaying treatment could not only affect your health but also give insurance companies a reason to deny your claim.
4. Exchange Information With the Other Driver
After ensuring safety, exchange the following information with the other driver:
- Full name and contact details
- Driver’s license number
- Vehicle make, model, and color
- Insurance company name and policy number
Avoid discussing who was at fault or making statements like “I’m sorry”—even if you feel responsible. These statements can be used against you later.
5. Contact an Attorney Right Away
Once the police leave the scene and you have the driver’s exchange and police report, call an experienced car accident attorney.
An attorney can help you:
- File a personal injury claim and ensure you receive fair compensation
- Access medical care from trusted providers
- Connect with reputable auto body shops for car repairs
- Assist in obtaining a rental car while your vehicle is being repaired
- Negotiate with insurance companies to prevent lowball settlement offers
At Gagliano Law, PLLC, Attorney Amanda Gagliano works closely with medical providers, auto body shops, and insurance adjusters to help clients recover from accidents.
Contact Gagliano Law, PLLC Today
Being in a car accident is stressful, but you don’t have to navigate the aftermath alone. Let Gagliano Law, PLLC handle the legal aspects so you can focus on your recovery.
Call 813-444-9724 today for a free consultation! We’re ready to fight for the compensation you deserve.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. What should I do immediately after a car accident
- Ensure everyone’s safety. Move to a safe location if possible, but do not leave the scene of the accident.
- Call 911 to report the accident and request medical assistance if needed.
- Exchange contact and insurance information with the other driver(s).
- Take photos of the scene, vehicle damage, and any visible injuries.
- Gather witness information if there are any bystanders.
- Contact a personal injury attorney.
2. What should I do if the other driver doesn’t have insurance?
If the at-fault driver is uninsured, you may still be able to recover damages through your own uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage. A lawyer can help you explore your legal options.
3. What if the other driver leaves the scene?
Leaving the scene of an accident is considered a hit-and-run, which is illegal. Call 911 immediately and provide any details you remember, such as the car’s make, model, color, or license plate number.
4. How long do I have to file an accident claim?
In some states, the statute of limitations for filing a personal injury claim after a car accident is two years from the date of the accident. However, it’s best to act as soon as possible to gather evidence and strengthen your case.
5. Can I still get compensation if I was partially at fault?
It depends on the state’s laws, but some states follow a comparative negligence system, which means you can still recover damages even if you were partially at fault—but your compensation will be reduced based on your percentage of fault.
6. Will my insurance rates go up if I file a claim?
If you were not at fault, your insurance rates should not increase. However, if you file a claim under your own insurance policy, your provider may adjust your rates at renewal.
7. How much compensation can I receive after a car accident?
The amount varies based on medical bills, lost wages, property damage, and pain and suffering. A personal injury attorney can evaluate your case and help maximize your compensation.
8. Should I accept the first offer from the insurance company?
No! Insurance companies often offer low settlements to save money. Consult an attorney before accepting any offer to ensure you’re getting fair compensation.
9. What happens if I don’t see a doctor right away?
Delaying medical treatment could hurt both your health and your case. Insurance companies might argue that your injuries were not serious or were caused by something else.
10. Do I have to go to court for a car accident claim?
Most car accident claims are settled outside of court. However, if the insurance company refuses to offer a fair settlement, your attorney may take the case to trial.
11. How much does it cost to hire a car accident attorney?
At Gagliano Law, PLLC, we work on a contingency fee basis—meaning you pay nothing upfront. We only get paid if we win your case.
