What To Do After an Auto Accident (For Insurance Claims)

1. Ensure Safety First

• Move to a safe location if possible.
• Turn on hazard lights.
• Check yourself and passengers for injuries.
• Call emergency services if anyone is injured.

2. Call the Police

Even for minor accidents, having a police report helps your claim.
Tell the dispatcher:

• Location of the accident
• Whether anyone is injured
• Number of vehicles involved

Police reports provide official documentation that insurers rely on.

3. Do NOT Admit Fault

Keep communication factual.
You should:

• Explain what happened
• Exchange information
  Do not say “It was my fault,” even casually—insurance companies determine fault.

4. Exchange Information With the Other Driver

Collect:

• Name, phone, address
• Driver’s license number
• License plate
• Vehicle make/model/year
• Insurance company + policy number
• Claim phone number on their insurance card

Also get passenger names and witness contact info.

5. Document Everything on the Scene

Use your phone to take clear photos of:

• All vehicle damage (close-up + wide shots)
• Skid marks, debris, road conditions
• Traffic signs or signals
• Injuries (if any)
• The other vehicle’s VIN and license plate

Also record:

• Time, date, and weather conditions
• A voice memo describing what happened

6. Notify Your Insurance Company ASAP

Most insurers require prompt reporting — sometimes within 24–48 hours.

When you call:

• Provide the facts of the accident
• Share the police report number
• Give photos/evidence
• Provide all other driver info

They’ll open a claim and assign an adjuster.

7. Get a Copy of the Police Report

The insurer often requests the report number, but later they may ask for the full document.

You can usually get it from:

• The investigating police department
• An online portal (depending on your region)

8. Follow Up With Medical Care (If Needed)

Even if you feel fine:

• Injuries like whiplash can appear hours or days later
• Medical documentation supports injury claims

Keep copies of:

• Medical bills
• Treatment notes
• Prescriptions
• Time away from work

9. Work With the Insurance Adjuster

The adjuster may:

• Inspect your vehicle
• Ask for additional info
• Interview witnesses
• Coordinate repairs or total-loss evaluation

Be honest and responsive — it moves your claim forward faster.

10. Keep Records of Everything

Store:

• Claim numbers
• Emails and letters
• Photos
• Receipts for towing, rental cars, repairs

Good documentation = fewer delays.