The First 5 Steps You Must Take After a Car Crash

Getting into a New Haven auto accident is jarring. Your adrenaline is high, and it’s hard to think straight. However, what you do in the moments immediately following a crash is critical, both for your safety and for any potential legal claim. Follow these five essential steps to protect yourself.

1. Stop, Secure the Scene, and Check for Injuries

Legally, you must stop immediately, no matter how minor the crash seems.

• Move to Safety: If possible, move your vehicle to the side of the road or a shoulder. If the cars cannot be moved, turn on your hazard lights.
• Check Everyone: Assess yourself and your passengers for injuries. Check on the occupants of the other vehicle(s). If anyone is seriously hurt, proceed immediately to step #2.
• Safety First: Never stand between vehicles or in the path of oncoming traffic.

2. Call 911 (Police and Medical)

If anyone is injured call the police. A police report is vital for your insurance claim and future legal case.

• Request an Ambulance: If there are any apparent injuries, call for medical help immediately.
• Wait for the Report: Get the responding officer’s name, badge number, and the official report number.

3. Exchange Information (But Don’t Overshare)

You need to exchange key details with the other driver(s), but limit the conversation strictly to facts.

• Gather the Essentials: Get the other driver’s name, address, phone number, insurance company name, and policy number. Also, note the license plate number and the vehicle’s make and model.
• Be Careful What You Say: Do not apologize, accept blame, or speculate about the cause of the accident. Simple phrases like, “I’m sorry this happened” can be twisted into an admission of fault later. Stick to “Are you okay?” and exchanging information.

4. Document the Scene with Photos and Notes

Your personal documentation can often be more helpful than the official report. Use your phone to take extensive photos and videos.

• Damage: Photograph the damage to all vehicles from multiple angles (close-up and wide shots).
• The Scene: Capture skid marks, road conditions, traffic signs, debris, and the surrounding environment.
• Injuries: Take pictures of any visible injuries you or your passengers sustained.
• Witnesses: Get the names and contact information of any witnesses who saw the crash. This is crucial if the other driver disputes the facts later.

5. Notify Your Insurance Company

Report the accident to your own insurance company as soon as possible, even if you weren’t at fault.

• Report the Facts: Provide only the basic factual information about the crash.
• Seek Medical Attention: Even if you feel fine, see a doctor within 24–48 hours. No symptoms? Still go. Injuries like whiplash or concussions often take days to appear, and delaying medical care can harm both your health and your legal case.