Having a car accident checklist ready before you need it can save your claim. In the chaos after an accident, people forget critical steps that later hurt their case. This checklist covers everything from the moment of impact through settlement, so you can reference it at any time.
Bookmark this page or save it to your phone -- you will be glad you did if the unexpected happens. Attorneys in our network* recommend following these steps in every accident, no matter how minor it seems. *Past results do not guarantee future outcomes.
At the Scene Checklist
Check for injuries and call 911 immediately. Move to safety if you can do so without aggravating injuries. Turn on hazard lights and set up flares or triangles if available.
Do NOT leave the scene (hit-and-run is a crime). Do NOT admit fault or say "I'm sorry." Do NOT discuss the accident with anyone except police.
Exchange information: names, phone numbers, addresses, driver license numbers, insurance companies and policy numbers, license plates, vehicle descriptions.
Document the scene: take photos of all vehicles from multiple angles, skid marks, traffic signals, road conditions, weather conditions, visible injuries, and license plates. Record a voice memo describing what happened while it is fresh.
Get witness information: names and phone numbers of anyone who saw the accident. Ask them what they observed.
Get the police officer's name, badge number, and the report number.
First 72 Hours Checklist
See a doctor within 72 hours even if you feel fine. Tell the doctor about all symptoms, no matter how minor. Get a thorough examination and follow all treatment recommendations.
Report the accident to your insurance company. Stick to basic facts only. Do NOT give a recorded statement without attorney consultation.
Do NOT speak to the other driver's insurance company. If they call, say "I am represented by an attorney" (or "I am seeking legal counsel").
Start a pain journal: record daily symptoms, pain levels (1-10), activities you cannot do, sleep disruption, emotional effects.
Do NOT post about the accident on social media. Tell family and friends not to post about it either.
Consult with a personal injury attorney. Most offer free consultations and charge nothing unless they win.
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First Week Checklist
Obtain the police report (typically available 5-10 business days after the accident). Review it for accuracy.
Follow all medical treatment recommendations. Attend every appointment. Fill all prescriptions.
Gather documentation: medical bills and records, proof of lost wages (pay stubs, employer letter), receipts for out-of-pocket expenses (prescriptions, medical equipment, transportation to appointments), property damage estimates.
If you have hired an attorney, provide them with all documentation and let them handle insurance communications.
Do NOT accept any settlement offer from the insurance company without attorney review. Early offers are almost always far below fair value.
Ongoing Checklist (Until Case Resolves)
Continue all medical treatment until your doctor says you have reached maximum medical improvement. Never stop treatment early -- gaps hurt your claim.
Keep your pain journal updated daily. Note new symptoms, setbacks, and how injuries affect your daily life.
Save all receipts and documentation related to the accident. Keep copies of everything.
Stay off social media regarding the accident, your injuries, and your activities. Insurance companies will use any post against you.
Respond promptly to your attorney's requests for information or documents. Your cooperation keeps the case moving forward.
Do not discuss your case with anyone except your attorney.
Need Help After a Car Accident?
A local attorney in our network* will guide you through every step of this checklist and fight for maximum compensation. Free consultation, no fees unless you win.
Call (267) 212-1034 today.
*Past results do not guarantee future outcomes.
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or text us — we reply in minutesFrequently Asked Questions
It is common to miss steps in the stress of an accident. Focus on what you can still do: see a doctor immediately, document your injuries with photos, contact the police department for the report, and consult an attorney who can help fill in any evidence gaps.
If the accident is minor and vehicles are in a dangerous position (blocking traffic, on a highway), move them to the shoulder. If there are serious injuries, leave everything in place and wait for emergency services. Take photos of the original positions before moving if possible.
Recording laws vary by state. In one-party consent states, you can record without the other person's knowledge. In two-party consent states (California, Florida, Pennsylvania, and others), all parties must consent. Regardless, limit conversation to exchanging information and do not discuss fault.
Without witnesses, your case relies on physical evidence (vehicle damage, skid marks, traffic camera footage), the police report, medical records, and your own testimony. An attorney can hire accident reconstruction experts to analyze the evidence and establish fault even without eyewitnesses.
As soon as possible -- ideally within the first few days. Early attorney involvement ensures evidence is preserved, you avoid making statements that could hurt your claim, and your medical treatment is documented properly from the start. Most attorneys offer same-day free consultations.
Need Legal Help? Get a Free Consultation
Speak with a local attorney in our network* today. Free consultation, no fees unless you win your case.
(267) 212-1034*Past results do not guarantee future outcomes.