What to Do After a Car Accident: Complete Checklist

Being in a car accident is scary and disorienting. Having a mental checklist of what to do can help you stay calm and handle the situation properly. Here's your complete guide.

Immediate Steps (First Minutes)

1. Check for Injuries

• Check yourself first
• Check passengers
• Call 911 if anyone is injured
• Don't move injured people unless there's immediate danger

2. Move to Safety

• If the accident is minor and vehicles are drivable, move to the shoulder
• Turn on hazard lights
• Set up flares or reflective triangles if you have them
• If you can't move the vehicle, stay inside with seatbelts fastened

3. Call 911

Even for minor accidents, a police report can be valuable for insurance. In North Carolina, you must report accidents with:

• Injuries or fatalities
• Property damage over $1,000
• Impaired drivers involved

Gathering Information

Exchange Information

Get from all involved drivers:

• Full name and contact information
• Insurance company and policy number
• Driver's license number
• License plate number
• Vehicle make, model, and color

Document the Scene

Use your phone to photograph:

• All vehicles involved (multiple angles)
• License plates
• Damage close-ups
• The overall accident scene
• Street signs and landmarks
• Weather and road conditions
• Any visible injuries

Gather Witness Information

If anyone saw the accident:

• Get their name and phone number
• Ask what they saw
• Note where they were standing

What to Say (and Not Say)

Do:

• Exchange information calmly
• Tell police exactly what happened
• Be honest but stick to facts

Don't:

• Admit fault (even if you think you caused it)
• Apologize (it can be used as admission of guilt)
• Speculate about what happened
• Discuss the accident on social media

Dealing with Your Vehicle

If Your Vehicle is Drivable

You may be able to drive home or to a repair shop. Have it inspected even if damage seems minor.

If Your Vehicle Needs Towing

You have the right to choose your own towing company. Don't feel pressured by anyone at the scene. Call a trusted company like Dolooma Towing at 1-877-47-PULSE.

Our accident recovery services include:

• Safe vehicle recovery from any position
• Transport to the shop or location of your choice
• Storage if needed

After Leaving the Scene

Contact Your Insurance

• Report the accident promptly
• Provide photos and documentation
• Don't accept blame
• Follow their guidance for repairs

Seek Medical Attention

Even if you feel fine, see a doctor within 24-48 hours. Some injuries, like whiplash, don't appear immediately.

Keep Records

Organize all documentation:

• Police report
• Medical records
• Repair estimates
• Rental car receipts
• Communication with insurance

Special Situations

Hit and Run

• Try to get any information (plate number, vehicle description)
• Note the direction they fled
• Call police immediately
• File a claim with your own insurance

The Other Driver Has No Insurance

• File a police report
• Contact your insurance (uninsured motorist coverage)
• Consult an attorney if needed

Accident with a Commercial Vehicle

• Get company name and driver information
• Photograph company logos and truck numbers
• These cases can be more complex – consider legal advice

Towing After an Accident

When we respond to accident scenes, we:

• Wait until police release the vehicle
• Document the condition before loading
• Use flatbed towing to prevent further damage
• Transport to your chosen destination
• Provide detailed documentation for your records

Triangle Area Accident Assistance

Dolooma Towing provides 24/7 accident recovery throughout Raleigh, Durham, Chapel Hill, and the entire Triangle area.

In an accident? Call 1-877-47-PULSE for professional, compassionate service when you need it most.