What Should I Do at the Scene of the Accident? 

Car accidents can be scary and overwhelming. Knowing what to do in the moment can help keep everyone safe and protect you legally and financially. Here’s a simple, step-by-step guide to follow at the scene of an accident.

1. Stay Calm and Check for Injuries

First, take a deep breath.

• Check yourself for injuries.
  
  

• Check passengers and others involved.
  
  

• Call 911 immediately if anyone is hurt.
  
  

Your safety and health always come first.

2. Move to a Safe Location

If the accident is minor and the vehicles can be moved:

• Pull over to the side of the road.
  
  

• Turn on your hazard lights.
  
  

• Set up warning triangles or flares if you have them.
  
  

If the vehicles cannot be moved, stay inside with your seatbelt fastened until help arrives (unless it’s unsafe to remain in the vehicle).

3. Call the Police

Even for minor accidents, it’s usually a good idea to contact law enforcement.

A police report:

• Documents the accident officially
  
  

• Helps with insurance claims
  
  

• Protects you if disputes arise later
  
  

When officers arrive, provide honest and clear information—but avoid admitting fault.

4. Exchange Information

Collect the following details from all drivers involved:

• Full name and contact information
  
  

• Driver’s license number
  
  

• License plate number
  
  

• Insurance company and policy number
  
  

• Make and model of the vehicle
  
  

If there are witnesses, ask for their contact information too.

5. Document the Scene

Use your phone to take photos and videos of:

• All vehicle damage
  
  

• The position of vehicles
  
  

• Road conditions
  
  

• Traffic signs or signals
  
  

• Any visible injuries
  
  

This evidence can be very helpful when filing a claim.

6. Avoid Discussing Fault

Do not argue or admit responsibility at the scene. Even saying “I’m sorry” could be misunderstood later. Let insurance companies and investigators determine fault.

7. Notify Your Insurance Company

Report the accident to your insurer as soon as possible. For example, if you’re insured with GEICO, you can file a claim online, through their mobile app, or by phone.

Provide:

• Date and time of the accident
  
  

• Location
  
  

• Photos and documentation
  
  

• Police report number (if available)
  
  

8. Seek Medical Attention

Even if you feel fine, consider seeing a doctor. Some injuries (like whiplash or internal injuries) may not show symptoms right away.

Medical records also help support any injury-related insurance claims.

Final Thoughts

The moments after a car accident can feel chaotic, but following these simple steps can protect your safety, your rights, and your finances:

✔ Check for injuries
✔ Move to safety
✔ Call police
✔ Exchange information
✔ Document everything
✔ Contact your insurance