Getting into an automobile accident is typically upsetting and it can be difficult to find clarity in knowing exactly what to do in the moments following. Here we will outline the steps that should be taken after a car accident and assist in guiding you through some of the big decisions that will need to be made.

Whether you believe you are at fault or not in the accident, the following steps should always be taken.

1. Check yourself, then other passengers for injuries and get to safety.

   Check yourself for injuries if able to do so. Then check on any passengers. If there are any injuries, call 911 for an ambulance and police. Vehicles should be moved off the road if possible and for higher impact crashes, it is likely a good ideal to wait away from the vehicles, especially if you see liquid below the vehicle or smoke coming from anywhere.

    

2. Call 911

   It is a good idea to report any incident, even minor ones like fender benders. That way there will be documentation for your insurance company. In many states it is legally required to notifiy authorities. Many times, insurance will request a copy of the police report to assist with processing the claim.

    

3. Wait for help & Exchange Info with Other Drivers

   Turn on the hazard lights in your vehicle, set up road flares if necessary, and turn off your engine while waiting for help to arrive. After ensuring everyones safety, exchange contact and insurance information with the other driver(s) involved. You will also want to note their driver’s license and license plate number, the year make and model of their vehicle, and take some pictures.

4. Document the accident

   Aside from taking photos of the scene and any damages, you will also want to collect the names and badge number of the responding officers and obrain a copy of the accident report. Many times, insurance will ask for it. Get the names and contact info of any additional passengers and witnesses involved. Take some notes while the incident if fresh in your mind as insurance will likely ask for some specific details to help the claim.

5. Decide whether to notify insurance and file a claim

   Depending on the severity of the damages to your vehicle or your body, you will have to decide if a claim is necessary. It is typically advised to always report any accident, however for a minor fender bender where you will not be seeking payment from insurance and there were no injuries or other vehicles involved, you may choose not to file a claim.

    

6. Seek medical care

   After an accident, it is common for adrenaline to be rushing through you and you may not feel the affects of any injuries until several days later. For this reason, insurance allows time for you to get checked, however they limit it to 14 days.

    

7. Get your vehicle repaired

   Once insurance determined the vehicle can be repaired, they will have suggestions of where to take your car under their list of approved facilities, however you are allowed to get up to 3 quotes on your own to present.

    

8. Replace your totaled vehicle

   If insurance determines the vehicle is a total loss, you may owe the remaining payments (unless you have GAP), you may receive money back if the value of the vehicle is more than what you owe. In either scenario, you will need to replace your vehicle.