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

What you do in the minutes, hours, and days after a car accident can make or break a later injury claim. Adjusters build their valuation on the record you create right now. This checklist covers what to do at the scene, at the hospital, and in the weeks that follow.

At the Scene

1. Check for injuries and call 911. Report injuries even if they seem minor — adrenaline masks pain, and a police report documenting the crash is invaluable.
2. Move to safety if the vehicles are drivable and it is safe to do so.
3. Photograph everything: both vehicles, damage, license plates, the road, traffic signals, skid marks, and any visible injuries. Wide shots and close-ups.
4. Exchange information: name, phone, insurance, license plate, and driver’s license number.
5. Get witness contact information. Independent witnesses are gold for proving fault.
6. Do not admit fault. Do not say “I’m sorry” or speculate about what happened. State facts only to the police.

Within 24–72 Hours

1. See a doctor — even if you feel fine. Soft-tissue injuries and concussions often appear a day or two later. A gap between the accident and first treatment is the single most damaging fact an adjuster can use against you.
2. Report the accident to your own insurer. Most policies require prompt notice. Stick to the facts.
3. Start a file: the police report number, photos, medical records, and receipts.

The First Weeks

1. Follow your treatment plan exactly. Missed appointments and gaps in treatment are used to argue you were not really hurt.
2. Keep a pain journal. Daily notes on pain levels, sleep, and activities you cannot do become powerful evidence for pain and suffering.
3. Track lost wages and any out-of-pocket costs.
4. Stay off social media. A single photo of you smiling at a barbecue will be used to claim you are not injured.

What to Avoid

• Do not give the other driver’s insurer a recorded statement — see why here.
• Do not accept a quick settlement before you know your full injuries. Wait for MMI.
• Do not sign a broad medical authorization letting the insurer mine your entire history.
• Do not exaggerate — honest, consistent documentation beats overstatement every time.

When to Call a Lawyer

For minor injuries with clear fault, you may be able to handle the claim yourself. Call an attorney if there is a serious injury, a surgery or surgical recommendation, disputed fault, a commercial vehicle, or an uncooperative insurer. Most offer a free consultation.

Once you have documentation and reach MMI, estimate your claim with the settlement calculator and read our demand letter guide to package it.