Car Accidents Can Be Overwhelming. Use This Checklist To Ensure Your Safety And Make Sure You Know What To Do After A Car Accident.
According to the National Highway Transportation Safety Administration (NHTSA), over 6 million car crashes were reported to police in the U.S. in 2023, the most recent year for which complete data is available. This statistic suggests that the average American driver will experience three to four traffic incidents in their lifetime.
The Federal Highway Administration highlights a 77% rise in the number of licensed older drivers from 2004 to 2020, contributing to the more than 50 million drivers on U.S. roads. While drivers over 50 are generally among the safest, data from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety indicates that accident rates increase for those aged 70 and above, with a significant spike beginning at age 80.
Every driver should know what to do after a car accident. In recognition of June as National Safety Month, we’ve compiled essential information to guide you.
1. Check For Injuries.
Assess your condition and that of your passengers first, advises David Bennett, senior automotive manager at the American Automobile Association (AAA). If anyone is hurt, prioritize seeking help. This is particularly crucial for older drivers, as the NHTSA reports that those aged 70 and up face a higher risk of serious injuries due to increased fragility and slower recovery times. “Get medical care,” emphasizes Bob Passmore, vice president of personal lines at the American Property Casualty Insurance Association.
Keep in mind, as Passmore notes, that the adrenaline rush from an accident can mask pain initially. Be vigilant for any discomfort or cognitive issues that may arise in the days that follow. “Seek medical attention if you notice anything unusual,” he advises. Prompt medical care can also facilitate your insurance claim process.
If you receive medical treatment, ensure you obtain written documentation, suggests Sean Tucker, lead editor at Kelley Blue Book. “Keep all information and receipts, as they may be relevant to your claim.”
2. Activate Your Hazard Lights
This straightforward step is vital: turn on your hazard lights, says Tucker. Research from AAA has shown that flashing lights significantly increase a vehicle’s visibility, helping to prevent further accidents. Remember to keep your seatbelt fastened to reduce the risk of injury in case of another incident.
3. Contact Authorities
If there are any injuries, fluid spills, or potential fire hazards, call 911 right away. “Get professionals on the scene for rescue and assessment,” advises Bennett.
Otherwise, reach out to the non-emergency number for the state highway patrol to report the accident. You can find this number by checking the state patrol’s website or searching online for “[state name] highway patrol nonemergency phone number.” It’s wise to store this number in your car, along with the patrol numbers for states you frequently visit. Alternatively, you can contact local law enforcement.
“Always call the police, regardless of whether you think it’s necessary,” says Tucker. “Your insurance company may need a police report, and it’s never a bad idea to have one on hand.”
4. Stay Calm
Accidents can be stressful, but it’s important to remain composed. “Whether interacting with others involved or authorities, strive to stay calm,” Bennett recommends. Techniques like deep breathing and positive visualization can help alleviate anxiety, slow your heart rate, and relax tense muscles, as noted by the American Institute of Stress.
If a conversation escalates, Bennett suggests stepping away: “Just say, ‘I’m going to wait over there for the authorities.’”
5. Document The Incident
You may need to recount the details of the accident to authorities, your insurer, a lawyer, or in court. Therefore, it’s crucial to document the scene while it’s still fresh in your memory, Bennett advises. This is particularly important for older adults, as memory can decline with age, according to the National Institutes of Health.
Use pen and paper, your phone’s camera, or note-taking apps to capture the following details:
- The direction of your travel
- Your starting point
- Your destination
- The number of lanes in each direction
- Any traffic controls present (stoplights, stop signs, roundabouts, etc.)
- When you first saw the other party involved
- The locations of impact
Be sure to photograph your vehicle, as well as any other vehicles or objects involved in the incident, Tucker suggests. “This documentation can clarify what damages were caused specifically by this accident and counter any misleading claims.”
6. Relocate Vehicles To Safety
If your car is operable and you can safely move it off the road, do so, advises Tucker. “Moving your vehicle won’t alter the legal circumstances, but it will help clear the roadway.”
If moving the car isn’t safe, Bennett suggests you should stay put and “relocate yourself to a safe area,” such as the side of the road, away from moving traffic.
7. Share Information:
If other vehicles are involved, it’s essential to exchange specific details with all parties. Bennett advises providing your name, phone number, insurance policy number, vehicle make and model, and the vehicle identification number (VIN) for all cars involved.
“You can also swap photos of your driver’s licenses if everyone is comfortable with that,” adds Passmore. This ensures that the information given is verified.
Witnesses at the scene can also be beneficial. “If there’s someone who saw what happened, try to get their name and phone number,” says Passmore. This allows authorities to reach out for their account of the incident.
8. Stick To The Facts:
Bennett emphasizes the importance of not discussing blame for the accident. “Avoid admitting fault or assigning blame to others. Stick to the facts,” he stresses. “Leave it to the authorities and insurance companies to determine responsibility.”
The details you document will be useful later. “People often recall events in a way that favors them, but the damage to the vehicle is impartial,” explains Passmore.
9. Notify Your Insurance Provider:
Inform your insurance company about the accident as soon as possible. “This allows them to begin processing your claim immediately,” says Bennett.
Many insurers offer smartphone apps to assist with the reporting process, according to Passmore.
If you’re comfortable with using them, “you can document the incident and file your claim right at the scene.”
These apps can help guide you on what photos to take and what information you need to gather, Tucker notes.
If you prefer not to use an app, a claims manager will be assigned to assist you. “Let them know you’d rather speak to someone on the phone,” Tucker suggests.
10. Arrange For A Tow Truck:
Call for a tow truck to remove your vehicle from the scene, Bennett advises. “The police or your insurance might have partnerships with local towing companies or repair shops, and they may recommend towing your car there,” he explains. “However, you generally have the option to request a different service.”
Inquire who will be towing your vehicle and where it will be taken. “Ensure it’s headed to a repair shop rather than a holding lot that charges daily storage fees,” warns Passmore.
Also, confirm that you or the authorities called the tow truck. The FBI notes that older adults can be more vulnerable to scams due to their trusting nature. “Occasionally, ‘bandit’ tow trucks may arrive after an accident, taking cars without anyone knowing the driver or the destination,” mentions Tucker.
11. Depart The Scene:
The officer will advise you when it’s appropriate to leave, according to Passmore. Do not leave until you receive the officer’s approval; doing so may be considered a criminal offense. “If they instruct you to stay, don’t go,” he adds.
If your vehicle is not drivable, Bennett suggests reaching out to a friend or family member for a ride, using a service like Uber or Lyft, or asking the authorities to assist in arranging your pickup if you’re uncomfortable doing it yourself.
12. Contact A Personal Injury Attorney:
If you have recently been involved in a car accident, it is crucial to understand the importance of contacting a personal injury attorney as soon as possible. Navigating the aftermath of a car accident can be overwhelming, with insurance companies, medical bills, and potential legal claims looming over you. A skilled personal injury attorney can provide you with the guidance and support you need to ensure that your rights are protected and that you receive the compensation you deserve for your injuries, lost wages, and emotional distress. Don’t leave your future to chance—having a professional advocate by your side can make all the difference in the outcome of your case.
Take action today by reaching out to a personal injury attorney who specializes in car accidents. The sooner you contact them, the better equipped they will be to gather evidence, interview witnesses, and build a strong case on your behalf. Many attorneys offer free consultations, allowing you to discuss your situation without any financial obligation. Please don’t wait until it’s too late; time is of the essence when it comes to filing claims and protecting your rights. Let a dedicated legal expert help you navigate this challenging time and work toward securing the compensation you need to move forward with your life.
Stay prepared and safe on the road.
