What should I do immediately after a car accident?

Many drivers are lucky enough to go their entire lives without being in a car accident. Others are not so lucky because sometimes, no matter how safely they drive or how careful they are, accidents happen. The moments immediately after the impact can be a stressful blur of pain and confusion, but here’s what you should be prepared for before you ever get into a car.

Initial Steps to Take After a Car Crash

In the minutes after the accident, the safety and welfare of everyone involved are a top priority. If you are hurt or there is property damage, call 9-1-1. You will also want to:

• Check on others. Be prepared to assist passengers or anyone else hurt in the crash by calling the police or medical services, as Minnesota law requires that you provide “reasonable assistance” if you are able to do so.
• Exchange contact and insurance information. You may approach the other driver, or you can ask the police for assistance. Be sure to get at least a name, address, date of birth, license plate number, and insurance details.
• Gather additional evidence. Take pictures of the scene with a camera or your smartphone if you are able to do so safely. Try and capture the vehicle damage, license plate numbers, injuries to yourself or your passengers, a nearby street sign or landmark, and any other parts of the accident scene that you think may be important.
• Seek witnesses. Reach out to anyone nearby who may have seen the accident and ask for contact information, as witness testimony could be important to your court case later.

Even if you feel fine immediately after the accident, a day or two later—after the adrenaline rush passes—you may not feel as good as you did. If you have pain or other symptoms that show up in the days or even weeks after the crash, it never hurts to get checked out by a doctor. Symptoms of whiplash, bruises, sprains and strains, traumatic brain injury, cracked ribs, and other injuries can take a surprising amount of time to appear.