Safety and Accident Checklist with The Sharlene Downs Agency 

Getting into a car accident can feel overwhelming but knowing what to do next can help make a tough situation much easier to manage. Following these actions can help protect you and simplify the claims process.

Accident checklist: Steps to take after a car crash

1. Ensure safety and check for injuries

Your number one priority after a car crash is confirming everyone is safe.

• Check yourself and any passengers for injuries. If anyone is hurt, call 911 right away.
• Don’t move anyone who’s injured unless there’s immediate danger, like a fire.
• If your vehicle is blocking traffic but can be moved, steer it to the side of the road.
• Keep your hazard lights on.

2. Call the police and get a report

Reporting a car accident to the police is a good idea, even if it looks like just a minor fender-bender.

• Call the police and fully cooperate. In many places, you’re legally required to call law enforcement if there are injuries or significant property damage.
• The police report will have details about what happened, which can help the insurance company determine what to do after a car accident and how to process your claim.

3. Exchange information with other drivers

After ensuring everyone is safe and contacting police, it’s time to trade important details with anyone else involved in the crash.

• Exchange names, insurance company and policy numbers.
• Write down each vehicle’s license plate number, make, model and color.
• Note the crash location with street names, mile markers or landmarks.
• Avoid talking about who was at fault.

4. Document the car accident scene

Having good records makes a big difference if you need to explain what happened later. Take these steps right after a car accident:

• Use your phone to take pictures of all the vehicles, close-ups of any damage and wide shots to show the vehicles in context. Capture license plates, skid marks, road conditions and street signs.
• Ask any eyewitnesses for their names and phone numbers in case their witness account is needed. Plus take your own notes!

5. Report the car accident to your insurer

After the immediate aftermath of the crash is handled, it’s time to report the incident to your insurance provider.

• Contact your insurer as soon as you safely can and provide all the details and photos you’ve collected.
• Be clear and honest when describing what happened and supply the police report number if you have one.

Navigating the steps after a car accident can be stressful. Remember, your insurance agent is there to help you through the process, answer questions about your policy and ensure your claim goes smoothly.

We’re here to help!

Wishing you a Safe and Happy New Year!