What to Do After a Car Accident

Even a minor fender bender is stressful. Having a checklist ready, saved on your phone or tucked in your glove box, helps you stay focused on the things that matter most. Local laws on reporting and exchanging information vary by state, so use this as a general guide and follow any instructions from police or emergency responders.

Right away at the scene

• Check for injuries — yourself first, then passengers, then others involved. Call 911 if anyone is hurt or if you are unsure.
• Move to safety if you can — if the cars are drivable and it is safe, pull out of traffic. Turn on your hazard lights.
• Stay at the scene — leaving before exchanging information can create legal problems in most places.
• Call the police if required — many states require a report for injuries or damage over a certain amount; a report can also help your claim.
• Stay calm and polite — avoid arguing about who caused the crash. Stick to facts.
• Avoid admitting fault — say what happened, but let the insurers and police sort out responsibility.

Collect information

• Other driver’s name and contact details — phone number and address.
• Their insurance company and policy number — a photo of their insurance card works well.
• Their license plate and driver’s license number — ask to photograph both if they agree.
• Vehicle make, model, and color — for every car involved.
• Witness names and phone numbers — independent witnesses can be very helpful later.
• Police officer’s name, badge number, and report number — you will need the report number to request a copy.

Document everything

• Photograph all vehicles — wide shots showing positions, plus close-ups of damage.
• Photograph the scene — road signs, traffic signals, skid marks, weather, and lighting conditions.
• Note the time and exact location — a pinned map location on your phone is handy.
• Write a short summary while it is fresh — direction of travel, speed, what you saw and heard.
• Keep any receipts — towing, rideshare, or emergency expenses.

Within the first day

• Notify your insurer — most policies require prompt notice, even if you were not at fault. Many insurers let you start a claim by app, website, or phone.
• Write down your claim number — and the name of the adjuster assigned to you.
• Get checked by a medical provider — some injuries do not show symptoms right away. Keep records of every visit.
• Ask about rental coverage — find out whether your policy, or the other driver’s insurer, will cover a rental and for how long.
• Hold off on repairs — unless told otherwise, wait until the adjuster has had a chance to inspect or approve an estimate.

In the following weeks

• Keep a claim folder — paper or digital, with photos, the police report, medical bills, repair estimates, and all correspondence.
• Log every conversation — date, person, and what was said.
• Review the repair estimate — ask questions if parts or labor look off. In many states you can choose your own repair shop.
• Understand your deductible — know how much you will pay and whether it may be reimbursed if another driver is found at fault.
• Respond to requests promptly — delays on your end can slow the claim.
• Read any settlement offer carefully — make sure it covers all damage and expenses before accepting.

When to get extra help

• Serious injuries — consider talking with a licensed attorney in your state about your options.
• Disputed fault — if the other side’s insurer denies responsibility, ask your insurer how they handle it.
• Unresolved disagreements — your state’s department of insurance usually has a consumer help line for complaints about claim handling.

Be ready for next time

• Keep a current insurance card in the car and on your phone.
• Store an emergency kit — flashlight, reflective triangles, first-aid supplies, and a pen and paper.
• Save your insurer’s claims number and app — so you are not searching for it in a stressful moment.

General education only — not personalized insurance, legal, or financial advice. CoverFind is not an insurance agency and does not sell policies.