What Should I Do After a Car Accident? 

A car accident can be a stressful and overwhelming experience, but knowing what steps to take afterward can make all the difference in protecting your health, rights, and finances. Whether the crash is minor or more severe, how you respond immediately and in the days following can significantly affect your health and wellness for years to come.  

Our team has helped over 350,000 accident victims find the medical, chiropractic and legal help they needed after an accident. Call 1-800-ASK-GARY® to speak with our team. 

Step 1: Ensure Safety at the Scene 

Safety comes first after an accident. Pull over to a safe area, such as the shoulder of the road or a nearby parking lot, if possible. Turn on your hazard lights to alert other drivers and avoid putting yourself in further danger. If anyone is injured, call 911 immediately to request medical assistance. 

Once you’ve ensured immediate safety, assess the situation calmly. If your vehicle is creating a hazard or obstructing traffic, law enforcement may direct you to move it. Otherwise, leave everything as it is for proper investigation and documentation. Keep in mind that staying at the scene until it’s appropriate to leave is not just courteous; it’s legally required in most cases. 

We've recovered over $2 billion for accident victims to help with their medical recovery and getting their life back on track. We're here to help with your case.

Step 2: Exchange Information & Document the Scene

Accurate documentation and sharing of information are essential after an accident. Exchange contact and insurance details with the other driver(s), including names, phone numbers, license plate numbers, and insurance company information. If there are witnesses, gather their contact details as well. 

Taking photos and notes can help preserve details that might fade from memory over time. Use your phone or camera to capture images of vehicle damage, road conditions, traffic signs, and any other relevant factors. If the police are called, ask for the officer’s name, badge number, and a copy of the accident report. These records can serve as critical evidence for insurance claims or legal proceedings. 

We can assist with guiding you through what information to collect. 

Step 3: Seek Medical Attention, Even If You Feel Fine - Call 1-800-ASK-GARY and we will help with getting you the medical care!

After addressing immediate safety and documentation, prioritize your health. Some injuries, like whiplash or concussions, may not cause noticeable symptoms right away but could develop into more serious conditions later. A medical professional can evaluate you thoroughly and provide early treatment if necessary. They can also document your injuries, which may be essential if you need to pursue a claim. 

Whether it’s a mild ache or a severe pain, don’t ignore any discomfort that arises in the hours or days following the collision.