What to Do After a Car Accident

Leslie Ann McKay • July 8, 2025

Car accidents are stressful. In those moments, adrenaline is high, and it’s easy to forget what to do. That’s why it’s important to understand the right steps to take before you’re ever in a crash. This guide walks you through exactly what to do after a car accident, from ensuring safety to handling insurance like a pro.

Step 1: Check for Injuries and Stay Safe

Before anything else, take a deep breath and check yourself and your passengers for injuries.

  • If anyone is hurt, call 911 immediately.
  • If the accident is minor, move your vehicle to a safe location (like the shoulder or a parking lot) to avoid blocking traffic or risking another collision.
  • Turn on your hazard lights to alert other drivers.
  • Even if injuries seem minor, it’s best to get checked out. Some symptoms (like whiplash) may take hours or days to appear.

Step 2: Call the Police

Even for small fender benders, having an official police report is useful, especially when filing an insurance claim.

  • When the officer arrives, stick to the facts.
  • Ask how to obtain a copy of the police report. Your insurance company may request it.
  • If law enforcement can't come to the scene, you may need to file a report at a local police station or through your DMV.

Step 3: Exchange Information

You’ll need to collect key details from the other driver. Here’s what to get:

  • Full name and contact information
  • Driver’s license number
  • License plate number
  • Insurance company and policy number
  • Make, model, and color of the vehicle
  • Photos of their insurance card and ID

Also, gather contact info for any witnesses who saw the accident.


Take plenty of photos of both vehicles, the damage, the license plates, and the surrounding scene. The more documentation, the better.


Step 4: Notify Your Insurance Company

Call your insurance provider as soon as possible—ideally at the scene or shortly after. Most carriers have 24/7 claims support.

What they’ll likely ask:

  • What happened?
  • Where and when did it occur?
  • Who was involved?
  • Are there photos or a police report?

If you’re unsure whether to file a claim, your agent can walk you through your options.

Step 5: Understand Your Coverage

After you file your claim, your insurer will explain how your specific coverage applies.

  • Liability Coverage: Covers damage to others if you're at fault.
  • Collision Coverage: Covers damage to your own car.
  • Uninsured/Underinsured Motorist Coverage: Helps if the other driver doesn’t have enough insurance.
  • Medical Payments or PIP: Covers medical bills regardless of who’s at fault (varies by state).

You may also be eligible for a rental car if your policy includes rental reimbursement.

Step 6: Follow Up on Repairs and Claims

Once your claim is underway:

  • Your insurer may recommend preferred repair shops.
  • You’ll receive an estimate for repairs and possibly a claims adjuster review.
  • If your car is totaled, the insurer will offer a payout based on its market value.

Stay in touch with your claims representative and ask questions if anything’s unclear. 

Stay Calm, Be Prepared

Being involved in a car accident can be a traumatic experience, but having a clear plan in mind makes all the difference. Keep a copy of this checklist in your glove box or save it in your phone.


If you ever have questions about your coverage, your deductible, or how a claim might affect your premium, reach out to your local agent. We're here to help you get through the unexpected with confidence.


Need help reviewing your auto policy? Contact Brownrigg Insurance Agency today—we’ll make sure you have the right protection in place before you need it.


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