The Definitive Guide is Here
This checklist is a great starting point. For a complete, 4,000+ word resource covering this topic in exhaustive detail, read our Pillar Page: The Definitive Guide on What to Do After a Car Accident.
The screech of tires is loud. The silence after is worse. Adrenaline kicks in and it is easy to freeze. A simple checklist keeps you calm, protects your health, and preserves your claim. Save this guide in your glove box with your proof of insurance.
First priority: safety
Check for injuries, call 911 if anyone is hurt, and move to a safe spot if you can. Do not move seriously injured people unless there is fire or traffic danger.
Your 10-step car accident checklist
- Get safe: Move off the road if drivable; hazards on.
- Call 911: Get police/medical help; request a report number.
- Check others: See if anyone else needs urgent aid.
- Exchange info: Names, phones, insurance, plate, and VIN photos.
- Document scene: Photos of damage, road, signs, weather, injuries.
- Find witnesses: Capture names/contact before they leave.
- Stay factual: No apologies or fault statements. Facts only.
- Call your insurer: Report from the scene if safe; log claim number.
- Seek medical care: Even if you feel fine; some injuries hide.
- Organize files: Keep police report, receipts, photos, and adjuster notes together.
What to collect (glove-box list)
| Item | Why it matters | Pro tip |
|---|---|---|
| Police report number | Official record for insurers and lawyers | Ask the officer for the case/incident ID |
| Photos/video | Shows positions, damage, weather | Shoot wide and close. Include skid marks and signs. |
| Insurance + license | Confirms coverage and identity | Photograph both sides; avoid hand copying |
| Witness info | Independent statements support your claim | Record a short voice memo if allowed |
Claim timeline (who pays what)
| Step | Coverage usually involved | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Emergency care | MedPay or PIP | Pays regardless of fault in many states |
| Vehicle repairs | Collision/Comprehensive | Your deductible applies; pursue other driver for reimbursement |
| Other driver injuries | Liability | Your limits protect your assets |
| Hit-and-run / no insurance | UM/UIM | File a police report to activate UM in many states |
| Rental car | Rental reimbursement or other driver's liability | Keep receipts; limits often $30-$50/day |
Phone scripts to keep handy
Calling 911:
"I'm at [street/cross]. Two vehicles, no fire. Injuries: [describe]. Please send police and medical."
Calling your insurer:
"I'm reporting a crash. Everyone is safe. Here is the other driver's plate and policy number. My photos and the police report number are ready."
If the other driver's insurer calls:
"I'll cooperate but won't give a recorded statement without speaking to my insurer. Send questions in writing."
What to avoid saying
- "It was my fault" (let investigators decide).
- "I'm not hurt" (symptoms can appear later).
- "I don't need the police" (you need the report).
- "Let's handle it without insurance" (bad idea; hidden damage is costly).
After the tow: next 48 hours
- Upload photos, police report number, and medical receipts to your claim file.
- Ask the adjuster if they prefer their shop or yours; you can choose.
- Review your rental limits; upgrade only if covered.
- Track all conversations with dates and names.
Medical bills and lost wages: who pays first?
Keep billing clean so you don't get stuck in the middle. Share these rules with your provider's billing office.
- PIP or MedPay first: In many states your PIP/MedPay pays initial medical bills. Give providers your claim number.
- Health insurance next: After PIP/MedPay limits are exhausted, health insurance usually steps in.
- Lost wages: Ask your adjuster which form documents time off. Some states require doctor verification.
- Keep receipts: Prescriptions, braces, rideshares to appointments—save it all for reimbursement.
FAQs (fast answers)
Do I always need a police report?
Yes. Even minor damage benefits from a report and many insurers require it.
Should I see a doctor if I feel okay?
Yes. Some injuries show later. MedPay/PIP can help with costs.
Can I pick my own repair shop?
Usually yes. You are not required to use the insurer's preferred shop.
What if the other driver has no insurance?
File a police report and use your UM/UIM and collision coverage.
Glove-box action plan (printable)
- Move safe, call 911, turn on hazards.
- Exchange info; photograph documents and plates.
- Capture photos/video of scene, signs, weather.
- Collect witness names; note police report number.
- Call your insurer; give facts only.
- Visit a doctor; save every receipt.
- Keep all claim notes in one folder.
- Review coverage: rental, gap, deductibles.
Accidents are stressful, but a clear plan keeps you steady. Save this checklist with your ID cards. Pair it with our guides on coverage types, premium basics, and renewals so you always know what to do and who pays. Preparation today means calmer decisions on the worst day.