⚠️ The actions you take in the first 24-72 hours after a car accident can make or break your injury claim. Insurance companies begin building their defense immediately—you need to do the same.
Immediate Actions at the Scene (First 30 Minutes)
Post-accident procedures are outlined by NHTSA and NAIC consumer guides. Exchange information requirements vary by state per Nolo state-specific guides.
Your safety is the absolute priority. Before anything else, assess yourself and passengers for injuries. Even if you feel fine, adrenaline can mask serious injuries—whiplash symptoms often don't appear for 24-48 hours, and internal bleeding may not cause immediate pain.
- Check yourself and passengers for injuries—don't move anyone with potential spinal injuries
- Turn on hazard lights and move to safety if vehicles are drivable
- Call 911 immediately—police reports are crucial for insurance claims
- Do NOT admit fault or apologize, even casually ("I'm sorry" can be used against you)
- Exchange information: names, phone numbers, insurance companies, policy numbers, license plates
- Document the scene: take 50+ photos from every angle—vehicle damage, skid marks, road conditions, traffic signs, weather
Critical Documentation Steps
Evidence disappears quickly. Skid marks fade, witnesses leave, surveillance footage gets deleted. The photos and information you gather at the scene become the foundation of your claim. Insurance companies routinely deny claims citing "insufficient evidence"—don't give them that excuse.
- Photograph all vehicles involved from multiple angles (close-up and wide shots)
- Capture the entire intersection/road including traffic signals and signs
- Document weather conditions, lighting, road surface quality
- Get contact information from ALL witnesses—names, phones, emails
- Note the responding officer's name and badge number
- Request the police report number before leaving the scene
Medical Care: The 72-Hour Rule
Seek medical attention within 72 hours, even if you feel fine. Insurance companies argue that delayed treatment means injuries weren't serious or weren't caused by the accident. Emergency room visits create official medical records linking your injuries directly to the crash.
Dealing with Insurance Companies
❌ Warning: Insurance adjusters are trained to minimize payouts. They are NOT on your side, even your own insurance company. Everything you say can and will be used to reduce or deny your claim.
- Report the accident to your insurance company promptly (within 24-48 hours)
- Provide only basic facts: date, time, location, vehicles involved
- Do NOT give recorded statements without attorney consultation
- Never accept the first settlement offer—it's almost always far below your claim's value
- Do NOT sign medical authorization forms giving insurers access to your entire medical history
ℹ️ Free Consultation Available: The first 72 hours are critical. Our network attorneys can guide you through the process. Call (773) 839-6086.