Ten Things to Do After an Automobile Accident

Scott Scherr • February 15, 2024

Here are 10 things you should always do after a car accident.

Most people are anxious after getting in a car accident. Their hearts are beating rapidly, are stressed, and not always thinking clearly. Here are 10 things you should do after getting in a car accident.


  1. Take a picture of the damage to all vehicles. You may even want to take a video. You should also take photographs of the scene. You should preserve any video if your car has a dashcam.
  2. Take a picture of the other driver's license, insurance card, and registration. Make sure you also get a picture of the tag of the other driver's car.
  3. Call the police if you are injured or you are concerned that the other driver may be untruthful or cause an issue later on. If the other driver leaves the scene without stopping, always call the police to the scene.
  4. Write down the names, addresses, telephone numbers, and e-mail addresses of all eyewitnesses. If you do not get this information at the scene, it will be gone forever.
  5. Get the names, addresses, and phone numbers of all passengers in the other car at the scene.
  6. If there are fluid leaking from your car or it is not safe to drive, do not drive it. Call a tow truck. It is not worth taking any chances.
  7. If you are injured, get prompt medical treatment in the emergency room or at an urgent care center. Do not wait to get treatment.
  8. If you have bruises, cuts, or abrasions, take pictures to document your injuries.
  9. Never give a recorded statement to the other driver's insurance company. The recording will be used against you later on.
  10. If you are in a single car accident and damage government property or another person's property, you have a duty to leave a note if possible or to report it to the police if it is not possible.


You should always preserve all evidence from the scene in case there is an issue of who was at fault. Taking these steps will minimize problems down the line.

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