What to Do After a Car Accident: The Insurance Checklist

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What to Do After a Car Accident: The Insurance Checklist

A car accident—whether it’s a minor fender bender or a major collision—can leave you feeling shaken, confused, and overwhelmed. Knowing exactly what to do in the moments that follow can make a huge difference when it comes to your safety, your insurance claim, and even your finances.

Here’s your step-by-step insurance checklist for what to do after a car accident, so you’re ready when it matters most.


🚨 Step 1: Check for Injuries and Stay Safe

  • First and foremost, check yourself and passengers for injuries.
  • If anyone is hurt, call 911 immediately.
  • Move your vehicle to a safe location (if drivable) to avoid further accidents.
  • Turn on your hazard lights and stay calm.

📝 Tip: Never leave the scene of an accident, even if it’s minor.


📞 Step 2: Call the Police (Even for Minor Accidents)

  • A police report can be critical for insurance claims, even if the accident seems small.
  • In some states, you’re legally required to report accidents involving injury or certain levels of damage.
  • When the officer arrives, stick to the facts. Avoid admitting fault—just describe what happened.

🔍 Ask for the officer’s name, badge number, and a copy of the report or the report number.


📸 Step 3: Document the Scene

Use your phone to take clear photos of:

  • Vehicle damage (all sides)
  • License plates
  • Road conditions, skid marks, signs, or signals
  • Driver’s license and insurance card of all parties involved
  • Any visible injuries

📷 Pro Tip: Take wide-angle shots and close-ups. The more detail, the better.


🗂️ Step 4: Exchange Information

Exchange the following with the other driver(s):

  • Full name
  • Phone number
  • Driver’s license number
  • Insurance company and policy number
  • Vehicle make, model, and license plate

⚠️ Avoid discussing fault or blaming anyone—let the insurance companies determine liability.


🧾 Step 5: Gather Witness Info

If there are any witnesses:

  • Get their names and contact info
  • Ask for a brief statement (write it down or record it with their permission)

Witnesses can be incredibly helpful if there’s a dispute later on.


📱 Step 6: Notify Your Insurance Company

Contact your insurer as soon as you’re safe and settled. Most allow you to start a claim:

  • Through a mobile app
  • On their website
  • Over the phone

Share the details you gathered, including the police report number, if applicable.

🛠️ Some insurers offer on-the-spot digital claims processing using photos and AI.


🧾 Step 7: Keep Track of Everything

Create a folder (physical or digital) for:

  • Your claim number
  • Police report
  • Photos and notes from the scene
  • Any medical records or bills
  • Repair estimates or receipts

This helps speed up the claims process and protect your rights if disputes arise.


🔧 Step 8: Schedule Repairs (if needed)

Your insurer may recommend a repair shop, but you usually have the right to choose where your car is fixed. Be sure to:

  • Get an estimate before agreeing to repairs
  • Ask if the shop uses OEM (original equipment manufacturer) parts
  • Confirm what’s covered under your policy

❗ Bonus: What Not to Do After an Accident

  • ❌ Don’t admit fault or apologize, even casually
  • ❌ Don’t leave the scene before exchanging info
  • ❌ Don’t delay reporting the accident to your insurer
  • ❌ Don’t post accident details on social media

✅ Final Thoughts

Accidents are stressful, but a clear action plan makes all the difference. By following this insurance checklist, you’ll be in the best position to file a smooth claim, protect yourself legally, and get your car (and life) back on track faster.


Need help filing a claim or choosing the right post-accident coverage? Contact our team or get a quote today—we’re here to help, rain or shine.


Would you like a printable version of this checklist for your customers? Or maybe a one-page infographic or social post? I can put that together for you in no time!

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