Car accidents can be overwhelming and chaotic, but knowing the right steps to take immediately after a collision can protect your safety, rights, and any future injury claims. Whether you’re in Utah, Idaho, Washington, Montana, Oregon, Wyoming, Colorado, or Arizona, being informed about the necessary actions can make a significant difference. As a car accident law firm, Craig Swapp & Associates is ready to help you through the crucial steps to take after a car accident and common mistakes to avoid.

Immediate Actions to Do at the Scene of a Car Crash

1. Check for Injuries

Your safety and the safety of others should be the top priority. Check yourself and your passengers for injuries. If anyone is seriously hurt, call 911 immediately and avoid moving them unless there’s an immediate danger, such as a fire. In states like Arizona and Colorado, failing to assist injured parties can lead to legal consequences.

2. Move to a Safe Location

If it’s safe and your vehicle is drivable, move it to the side of the road to prevent further accidents. Turn on your hazard lights to alert other drivers. In states like Montana and Wyoming, drivers are required to provide additional hazards after a crash.

3. Call the Police

Even if the accident seems minor, it’s essential to call the police. In many states, including Utah, Idaho, and Washington, you are legally required to report accidents involving injuries, death, or significant property damage. 

A police report serves as a crucial piece of evidence for your insurance claim or potential car accident lawsuit. In Oregon, failing to report an accident can result in fines or legal penalties.

4. Exchange Information with Other Driver(s) & Witnesses

Collect contact and insurance details from the other driver(s), including their name, phone number, license plate, and insurance company. If there are witnesses, gather their contact information as well. This information will be essential for your claim. In Washington, failure to exchange information may result in fines or license suspension.

5. Document the Scene

Take photos and videos of the accident scene, vehicle damage, injuries, road conditions, and any traffic signals or signs. The more evidence you have, the stronger your car accident case will be. In every state, visual documentation can make or break a case when establishing fault.

6. Report the Accident to Your Insurance Company

Notify your insurance company about the accident as soon as possible. Provide accurate information, but avoid admitting fault or speculating about the cause of the crash. In Utah, failing to report an accident promptly could result in claim denial.

7. Contact Your Car Accident Attorney

Reaching out to experienced car accident lawyers, like Craig Swapp & Associates, can help you understand your rights and ensure that you don’t make mistakes that could harm your claim. Early legal intervention can prevent missteps that could weaken your case.

Common Mistakes to Avoid at a Car Accident Scene

1. Leaving the Scene

Leaving the scene of a car accident can result in severe legal consequences, including criminal charges. Always stay until you’ve exchanged information and spoken with law enforcement. In states like Montana, leaving the scene is considered a serious criminal offense.

2. Not Calling the Police

Failing to report the car accident can complicate your claim and make it difficult to prove liability. Always call the police, even for minor accidents.

3. Admitting Fault or Apologizing

Avoid admitting fault or saying “I’m sorry,” as it can be interpreted as an admission of guilt. Stick to the facts when speaking with the police or the other party.

4. Not Gathering Evidence

Forgetting to take photos, gather witness information, or document details can weaken your case. Take the time to collect as much evidence as possible.

5. Not Exchanging Information

Make sure to exchange all necessary information with the other driver, including names, contact details, and insurance information.

6. Speaking to the Other Party’s Insurer

Do not provide a recorded statement to the other driver’s insurance company without consulting your attorney. They may use your words against you to reduce their payout.

7. Not Reporting the Accident to Your Insurer

Failing to report the accident to your insurer in a timely manner can lead to insurance claim denial.

8. Not Contacting Your Car Accident Attorney

Accident lawyers can guide you through the claims process and help you avoid costly mistakes. Contacting injury lawyers early can improve your chances of securing fair compensation.

Things to Do After Leaving the Scene of a Car Accident 

1. Obtain the Police Report

Request a copy of the police report as soon as it becomes available. It’s an essential document for both insurance claims and legal action.

2. Seek Medical Attention

Even if you feel fine, see a medical professional. Some injuries, such as whiplash or internal bleeding, may not show symptoms right away. Delayed treatment could weaken your accident and injury claim.

3. Monitor Your Health

Keep track of any symptoms or health issues that arise after the accident. Documenting these changes can support your injury claim.

4. Keep Detailed Records

Save all medical bills, repair receipts, and correspondence with insurance companies. These records are vital for proving damages.

5. Consult Your Car Accident Lawyer

A skilled accident lawyer can help you understand the legal process, handle communication with insurance companies, and advocate for the compensation you deserve.

How to Proceed in a Car Accident Claim After the Accident

After a car accident, the claims process typically involves:

  • Filing an insurance claim promptly.
  • Providing necessary evidence, including photos, medical records, and the police report.
  • Communicating carefully with insurance adjusters.
  • Seeking legal representation from injury lawyers if negotiations stall or the insurance company offers an inadequate settlement.

Being prepared and informed about what to do at the scene of a car accident can significantly impact the outcome of your case. Whether you’re in Utah, Idaho, Washington, Montana, Oregon, Wyoming, Colorado, or Arizona, following these steps and avoiding common mistakes will help protect your health, safety, and legal rights. 

If you’ve been injured in a car collision, don’t hesitate to reach out to our experienced car accident lawyers at Craig Swapp & Associates for dedicated legal support. Call us at 800-404-9000 or contact us online to schedule your free consultation.