After you’ve been in an accident, it can be hard to know what to do next.

You may be hurt, your car damaged…

And there are insurance companies and medical bills to pay, documentation to complete, and car repairs that need to be made… not to mention the emotional toll that the accident.

But don’t worry, you aren’t alone!

We’ve compiled some helpful information about what to do when you get into a car accident that 

Check out our comprehensive guide now!

Stop Your Car And Secure The Area

If it is safe to do so, pull over in a secure location and put on your hazard lights.

It’s important that you not move your car to a safe location until any police or other authorities have arrived at the scene. In many cases, however, there will be injuries involved and damage done that could make it dangerous for you to stop and inspect vehicles or anything else.

So, in general, your first priority should be making sure that anyone who needs immediate attention is treated before you proceed with stopping traffic, etc.

Assess If Anyone Is Injured

If you’re able, check yourself and others involved in your car accident for injuries. 

Keep in mind that pain doesn’t always appear right away. So it’s important not to rule out any serious issues until they have been fully examined by a medical professional.

If anyone is injured, try to stay calm. You can gather information later

First, you need to ensure your safety and everyone else’s.

Call The Police In Case Of A Major Accident

If you are hurt, your car is damaged, or there’s even a chance of serious injury, call 911 and wait for the police to arrive. Even if no one is hurt and you’re physically fine (other than maybe being shaken up), it’s still smart to call and file an accident report with law enforcement—an insurance claim will probably require one later on. Get out of the car if you can safely do so; even if there are no injuries, sitting in your crumpled vehicle could cause damage in its own right.

Take Pictures, Report

If you have any injuries or any damage, it’s important to document everything before dealing with insurance companies and the police. You don’t want your insurance rates affected by unseen damage.

The driver of another vehicle is legally required to give their name. If there are witnesses, don’t forget to get their contact information. They can be called on later if necessary.

Before you depart the accident scene, make sure to get the following information from the other drivers.

Information you should get includes:

1. Driver information including name and contact information, driver’s license numbers
2. License plates number
3. Insurance policy number of the drivers involved in the accident

Contact your insurance

Whether or not you were at fault, chances are your insurance company will reach out following an accident.

Make sure you read your policy and contact them as soon as possible. If they require you to report it immediately, give them a call.

Be sure to have information about where you were when it happened (exact address if possible) and any witnesses who can verify what happened.

Your details about what happened might be recorded by a police officer. Have those details handy when speaking with insurance representatives so they don’t ask repeatedly.

Things to keep in your car for emergency

How many times have you been stuck in your car in a jam or broken down with no one around to help?

Always keep these items in your car, and if it ever breaks down, you’ll be happy you did. It’s better safe than sorry!

• pen and paper
• a first aid kit
• emergency road flares, warning triangles or cones
• a flashlight and extra batteries
• bottled water
• jumper cables
• a pump
• a small tool kit (wrenches, screwdrivers)
• some type of non-perishable food
• a thermal blanket (for cold winter)