What to do after a car accident: a step-by-step checklist

At the scene

1. Stay safe. Move to a safe place if you can, turn on hazard lights and check on everyone involved.
2. Call 911 if anyone is injured or the road is blocked, and ask for police to attend. Many states require accidents involving injury or significant damage to be reported.
3. Exchange information: names, phone numbers, driver's license numbers, license plates and insurance details.
4. Document everything: photos of the vehicles, the scene, road conditions, traffic signals and any injuries, plus names and numbers of witnesses.
5. Don't admit fault or speculate. Stick to the facts.

In the days after

• See a doctor even if you feel fine. Some injuries, such as whiplash and concussion, show symptoms later, and medical records are key evidence.
• Notify your insurer promptly, as your policy requires.
• Get the police report number and copy.
• Keep records of medical bills, lost wages, repair estimates and how the injury affects daily life.
• Be cautious with the other driver's insurer. You don't have to give a recorded statement, and early settlement offers may undervalue your claim.

Fault and no-fault states

In most states, the at-fault driver's insurer pays for injuries and damage. About a dozen states have no-fault insurance systems, where your own personal injury protection (PIP) coverage pays initial medical bills and lost wages regardless of fault. In those states, you can only sue the other driver if your injuries meet a threshold. Rules on shared fault also vary by state.

When to call a lawyer

Consider a personal injury lawyer if you were injured, fault is disputed, the insurer denies or delays your claim, an offer seems low, or the accident involved a commercial truck, rideshare or government vehicle (special notice deadlines may apply). Most car accident lawyers offer free consultations and work on contingency.