Car accident: what to do at the scene
Big, simple steps you can follow on your phone at the roadside. Safety first, then the information you'll need for any claim.
Check for injuries
Check yourself and passengers. If anyone is hurt, call 911. Don't move someone who is seriously injured unless they're in immediate danger.
Get safe
Turn on hazard lights. If the cars can move and it's safe, get them out of traffic. If not, stay buckled in or move well away from traffic, behind a barrier if there is one.
Call the police when needed
Call if anyone is hurt, there's significant damage, a driver seems impaired or uninsured, someone leaves, or you disagree about what happened. Ask for the officer's name and the report number.
Exchange information
Name, phone, driver's license, insurance company and policy number, plate, and the vehicle owner if different. Photograph the documents with permission. Full list.
Take photos
Wide shots of the scene, all damage, plates, road signs, skid marks and conditions. Shot list.
Get witnesses
Names and phone numbers of anyone who saw it happen.
Stick to facts
Be polite, but don't admit fault or argue. Don't sign anything at the scene except what police give you.
Afterwards
See a doctor even if you feel fine, notify your insurer as your policy requires, and start a claim journal. What to do next.
Be careful of
- Tow trucks that arrive without being called and pressure you to sign; ask police, or call your insurer or roadside service
- Offers of cash to "keep insurance out of it"
- Anyone at the scene who wants you to see a particular doctor, shop or lawyer
General information, not legal advice. Reporting rules vary by state. Road Protect is not an emergency service.