Getting into a car crash is undoubtedly a stressful experience, often leaving those involved disoriented and unsure of the immediate steps to take. Knowing exactly what to do (and what not to do) following even a minor collision can make a significant difference in ensuring your safety and efficiently resolving the situation.
If the crash involves any injuries, or if the vehicles are severely damaged and undrivable, call 9-1-1 IMMEDIATELY.
Immediate Actions After a Crash:
- Stay Calm and Assess the Scene: The first thing to do is take a deep breath and try to remain calm. Assess how safe it is to be in your vehicle. If you’re in a dangerous location, and it’s safe to do so, turn on your hazard lights to alert other drivers and then carefully move the vehicle as soon as it is safe to do so.
- Ensure Well-being: Politely inquire about the well-being of the other drivers and passengers involved, and be sure to assess whether anyone requires medical attention.
- Document the Scene: Take photos of the other vehicle(s) as well as your own car to accurately note damage. This will provide valuable documentation for insurance claims. Take pictures or document landmarks, street signs, or address markers to specify the crash location.
- Gather Information: Locate witnesses and document their names and contact information. Accurately document the date, time, and location of the traffic crash.
- Move Your Vehicle: If the situation allows, move your vehicle(s) to a safe location, ideally out of the flow of traffic, to prevent further accidents and ensure everyone’s safety.
- Exchange Information: Carefully exchange the following information with the other driver(s) involved:
- Names of all drivers and any passengers.
- Insurance information for all vehicles.
- Protect Your Identity: When exchanging information, DO NOT provide your driver’s license number or your home address.
- Contact Your Insurer: In the District of Columbia, as a “no-fault” car insurance jurisdiction, you are instructed to notify your insurance company after a crash. Your insurer will guide you through the claims process.
It’s always a good idea to have a copy of a Non-Injury Crash Checklist and Guide available for reference. You can download a copy for future use.
