Car accident: what to do right after
Make sure everyone is safe and call 911 if anyone is hurt. Swap names, phones and insurance, take photos, get a police report, and call your insurance soon. See a doctor even if you feel okay.
Your checklist
- Check that everyone is okay
- Call 911 if anyone is hurt
- Move to safety if you can
- Swap names, phones, insurance and plates
- Take photos
- Get a police report number
- Call your insurance company
- See a doctor
Rather read it? Here’s the whole thing.
At the scene
- Check on everyone. If anyone is hurt, call 911.
- If the cars can move and no one is hurt, move out of traffic and turn on your hazard lights.
- Swap names, phone numbers, insurance company and policy number, and license plates.
- Take photos of both cars, the plates, the street and any injuries.
- Stay calm and stick to the facts. Don’t argue about whose fault it was.
After you leave
Get the police report number. Call your insurance company soon, because some policies have short deadlines. See a doctor, even if you feel okay; some injuries show up days later.
Do you need a lawyer?
For a small fender bender with no injuries, usually not. If you were hurt, missed work, or the insurance company is offering too little, a free call with an injury lawyer can help. Most only get paid if you win.
Common questions
Do I have to call the police after a small accident?
Rules depend on your state, but a police report helps with insurance and protects you. Call if anyone is hurt or the other driver won’t cooperate.
Should I talk to the other driver’s insurance company?
You can give basic facts, but be careful about recorded statements. Many people talk to their own insurance or a lawyer first.
Talk to someone near you
Free calls. Most injury lawyers only get paid if you win.
Know someone who needs this?
Not yet reviewed by an expert. Last checked 2026-10-29. This is general help, not legal, medical or professional advice. Rules are different in every state.