I got into a car accident
Diagnostic Quick Question
Are there any physical injuries or immediate medical emergencies?
DO THIS NOW
Ensure scene safety & call Emergency Services (911 / 112 / 112 / 108)
Turn on hazard lights. Check yourself and passengers for injuries. Call emergency services if anyone is hurt or if traffic is blocked.
Move vehicles to shoulder (if minor collision)
If vehicles are drivable and no severe injuries exist, carefully move to safe road shoulder to prevent pile-ups.
Photograph accident scene, license plates, & vehicle damage
Take wide photos showing road conditions, traffic signs, position of both vehicles, license plates, and damage on all sides.
Exchange insurance, driver license, & contact details
Swap full names, phone numbers, driver license numbers, vehicle registration, and insurance policy numbers with other driver(s).
EMERGENCY KIT
Everything you need to execute recommended actions for I got into a car accident
Other Driver Name, Phone, License #, & Plate #
RECOMMENDEDEssential for third-party insurance claims.
Other Driver Insurance Company & Policy Number
RECOMMENDEDUsed by claims adjuster for liability billing.
Police Accident Report Number
RECOMMENDEDMandatory documentation for fault determination.
Documents, Deadlines & Aftermath Protection
Review required document replacements, official claim deadlines, and follow-up guidance.
Motor Insurance Claim Application
REQUIREDFormal claim filing for vehicle damages or third-party liability.
Police Accident FIR / Spot Panchnama
REQUIREDOfficial police document detailing vehicle accident scene, injuries, and property damage.
DO NOT DO THIS
- ✕NEVER admit fault, apologize, or say 'I didn't see you' at the scene—state only factual statements to police officers.
- ✕Don't leave the scene of an accident until police arrive or details are fully exchanged (Hit-and-Run crime).
- ✕Don't sign any settlement documents or accept cash offers from the other driver on the spot.
RECOVERY TIMELINE
Obtain Police Report case number & officer badge number
Request the responding officer's name, badge number, police department precinct, and accident report number.
Call your auto insurance emergency claims desk
Report the incident to your insurance provider to initiate claim dispatch and roadside towing if needed.
YOU MAY NEED
OFFICIAL ACTIONS & VERIFIED SOURCES
Government & Authority Portals for India
Specific Step Actions & Direct Links
US National Highway Traffic Safety Administration accident procedures.
DON'T FORGET
- Obtain phone numbers of independent bystanders / witnesses: Witness statements clarify conflicting fault claims.
COMMON MISTAKES
- ⚠️ Admitting fault or saying "Sorry, I was distracted" at the scene.
- ⚠️ Forgetting to photograph road skid marks or traffic signs.