What to Do After a Car Crash: Your Immediate Action Plan

Car accidents can be overwhelming and stressful, especially when they happen suddenly. Knowing what to do immediately after a crash can protect your health, your rights, and your ability to file a personal injury claim if necessary. Below, Tiemann Law Firm has outlined a step-by-step guide that will walk you through the essential actions to take after a car accident.

1. Check for Injuries and Call 911 – The first priority after any car accident is safety. Check yourself, your passengers, and anyone else involved for injuries. Even if injuries seem minor, call 911 so medical professionals can evaluate the situation. Having a police officer respond also ensures there’s an official accident report, which is an important piece of evidence for insurance or a personal injury case.
2. Move to a Safe Location – If it’s safe and your vehicle is drivable, move to the side of the road to avoid further danger. Turn on your hazard lights to alert other drivers. If you can’t move your car, remain inside with your seatbelt fastened until help arrives.
3. Document the Scene – Evidence is key in car accident claims. Take photos of the vehicles, license plates, road conditions, traffic signals, and any visible injuries. Capture different angles and close-up shots. This documentation can help strengthen your personal injury case if you pursue compensation later.
4. Contact a Police Agency – After an accident, call your local police department or the California Highway Patrol (CHP). An officer can document the scene, gather statements, and file a report that may help with insurance or legal matters. If police don’t arrive, don’t skip this step entirely—be proactive. Make sure to exchange contact and insurance information with the other driver, and gather details from any witnesses yourself.
5. Notify Your Insurance Company – Report the accident to your insurance provider as soon as possible. Stick to the facts when explaining what happened and avoid speculating about fault. If the other driver’s insurance company contacts you, it’s best to speak with a personal injury lawyer before giving a recorded statement.
6. Seek Medical Attention – Not all injuries are immediately obvious. Whiplash, concussions, and internal injuries may take hours or days to appear. Visiting a doctor right away protects your health and creates medical records that connect your injuries to the accident, which is vital evidence for a personal injury claim.
7. Contact a Personal Injury Lawyer – If you’ve been injured, consulting with a personal injury lawyer can make a significant difference. An attorney can help you navigate insurance negotiations, gather evidence, and fight for the compensation you deserve for medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering.

Final Thoughts

A car accident can turn your life upside down in seconds, but knowing what to do immediately afterward can help you stay safe and protect your rights. By following these steps, you’ll be in a stronger position to recover physically, emotionally, and financially.

If you were involved in a car accident and have a case you want to pursue, we’re here to support and guide you through the process. Contact the personal injury attorneys of Tiemann Law Firm to set up a free, same-day consultation at (916) 999-9000.