What to Do After an Accident

What to Do After an Accident: A Step-by-Step Guide

Accidents happen in the blink of an eye, and even the most careful drivers can find themselves in a stressful situation. Knowing exactly what to do in the moments after a crash can help you stay safe, protect your rights, and ensure a smoother claims process. Here’s a breakdown of what to do after an accident.

1. Stay Calm and Check for Injuries

The first thing to do is take a deep breath and assess the situation. If anyone is injured, call 911 immediately. Even if the injuries seem minor, it's best to get checked out by medical professionals.

Not all injuries appear immediately. Whiplash, concussions, and internal injuries can take hours or days to become noticeable. If you feel any discomfort, seek medical care promptly—delaying treatment could complicate insurance claims.

2. Move to a Safe Location

If possible, move your vehicle out of the way of traffic to avoid further accidents. Turn on your hazard lights and set up warning triangles or flares if you have them. If the cars can’t be moved, stay inside with your seatbelt fastened until help arrives.

3. Call the Police

In most cases, calling the police is a smart move, even for minor accidents. A police report provides an official record that can be useful for insurance claims and liability disputes. When the officers arrive, provide factual information but avoid admitting fault, as liability will be determined later.

4. Call for a Tow

Most likely, your vehicle will need to be towed from the scene of an accident. You have the right to call your own service, so long as they can respond in a timely manner, typically 30 minutes. Calling for a tow directly could potentially save you money and use a service you trust with your vehicle.

Barrett’s Towing is available 24/7 for accident towing. You can call our dispatch at 706-543-0900 and a professional operator will be dispatched to help you at your accident scene.

5. Exchange Information with Other Drivers

Gather essential details from the other driver, including:

• Name and contact information

• Insurance company and policy number

• Vehicle make, model, and license plate number

• Location of the accident

If there are witnesses, ask for their contact details as well—they may help clarify what happened.

6. Document the Scene

Take clear photos of the accident scene, vehicle damage, skid marks, traffic signals, and road conditions. If injuries are visible, photograph those too (but be respectful). Notes about weather conditions and time of day may also help with your claim.

7. Contact Your Insurance Company

Report the accident to your insurance provider as soon as possible. Provide them with the details and let them guide you through the next steps. Some companies have mobile apps to streamline the reporting process.

8. Consider Legal Advice

If there are disputes over fault, serious injuries, or issues with insurance, consulting an attorney might be a good idea. They can help protect your interests and ensure fair compensation.

9. Get Your Vehicle Repaired

Find a reputable repair shop or ask your insurance provider for recommendations. If your car is declared a total loss, be sure you understand your state’s regulations regarding salvage value and replacement options.

10. Reflect on Your Experience

Once everything is settled, take time to reflect on the accident. Can anything be done differently to avoid a similar situation in the future? Defensive driving courses or safety upgrades may be worth considering.

Accidents are stressful, but staying prepared makes all the difference. Have a roadside emergency kit, keep essential documents handy, and know your rights—it’s all about minimizing risks and handling the aftermath with confidence.

If you find yourself in an accident, give us a call 24/7. 706-543-0900