What to Do After a Car Crash

Even a minor crash is stressful, and people make dangerous choices in the confusion, like standing in traffic to look at damage. Knowing the steps ahead of time keeps you and others safe and protects you afterward.

• All drivers
• Work vehicles

Right away

1. Stop. Leaving the scene of a crash is illegal.
2. Check yourself and passengers for injuries.
3. Get out of traffic. If no one is hurt and the cars can move, many states require you to move them out of the travel lanes. If not, turn on hazards and stay buckled if it’s unsafe to get out.
4. Call 911 if anyone is hurt, a vehicle is blocking traffic, there’s fuel leaking or fire, or the other driver seems impaired or hostile.

Helping the injured

• Don’t move injured people unless there’s fire or another immediate danger.
• Control severe bleeding with direct pressure. See Bleeding Control.
• If someone isn’t breathing, call 911 and start CPR if trained. See CPR & AED.
• Keep people warm and calm until help arrives.
• Watch for traffic. Don’t become a second victim.

Exchange information

• Names and phone numbers of the drivers
• Driver’s license numbers
• Insurance companies and policy numbers
• Vehicle make, model, color and license plate
• Names and contacts of witnesses
• Police officer’s name and report number

Document the scene

• Take photos of all vehicles, damage, plates, the scene, traffic signs and road conditions.
• Write down the time, location, weather and what happened while it’s fresh.
• Save dash camera video.

What not to do

• Don’t argue or admit fault at the scene; stick to the facts.
• Don’t stand between or behind the cars in traffic.
• Don’t sign anything except police or official documents.
• Don’t post about the crash on social media.

Afterward

• Report the crash to your insurance company promptly.
• Many states require a report to police or the motor vehicle agency for crashes with injuries or damage over a set amount.
• See a doctor, even if you feel fine. Neck, back and head injuries can show up later. See Head Injuries.
• In a work vehicle, report to your employer right away. A work-related injury may be covered by workers’ compensation. See Workers’ Compensation.

Commercial drivers have extra duties. See What to Do After a Truck Crash.

Last updated: October 1, 2026