What To Do After a Car Accident

Main Street Law

A car accident is frightening and confusing. In the moments after a crash, many people are shaken up and unsure what they are supposed to do — and unfortunately, mistakes made in the first hour can affect insurance claims and legal rights later.

This guide explains the basic steps to protect yourself, your health, and your legal options after a motor vehicle accident in Missouri.

1. Check for Injuries First

Your safety comes before everything else.

Immediately check yourself and others for injuries. If anyone is hurt — even slightly — call 911. Some injuries, including concussions, whiplash, and internal bleeding, may not be obvious right away.

If you are able to move safely, get to a secure area away from traffic.

2. Call the Police

You should report the accident to law enforcement whenever there is:

• Injury

• Significant vehicle damage

• A dispute about fault

• An uninsured driver

A police report becomes one of the most important pieces of evidence in an insurance claim. It documents:

• Date and time

• Driver statements

• Witnesses

• Officer observations

Do not leave the scene before police arrive unless emergency medical transport is required.

3. Exchange Information — But Be Careful What You Say

You should collect:

• Driver’s name

• Insurance company

• Policy number

• Phone number

• License plate

• Vehicle description

However, avoid saying things like:

• “I’m sorry”

• “It was my fault”

• “I didn’t see you”

Even polite statements can later be used by insurance companies to argue liability.

4. Take Photos Immediately

Your phone is your best evidence tool.

Take clear pictures of:

• Vehicle damage

• License plates

• The road and intersection

• Traffic signals or signs

• Skid marks

• Weather conditions

• Visible injuries

Also photograph the other driver’s insurance card and driver’s license (if they agree).

5. Seek Medical Attention

Many accident injuries appear hours or days later, especially:

• Whiplash

• Back injuries

• Soft tissue damage

• Head injuries

If you wait too long to get treatment, insurance companies may argue you were not actually injured.

Even if you feel “okay,” a medical evaluation protects both your health and your documentation.

6. Notify Your Insurance Company

Report the accident promptly, but keep the conversation simple:

• Provide facts

• Do not speculate

• Do not give a recorded statement to the other driver’s insurance company without legal guidance

Insurance adjusters are trained to minimize payouts. Early statements sometimes get used out of context later.

7. When Should You Contact an Attorney?

You should consider speaking with an attorney if:

• You were injured

• Fault is disputed

• The other driver is uninsured or underinsured

• The insurance company pressures you to settle quickly

• Medical bills begin to accumulate

An early consultation can help you understand your options and avoid mistakes that may reduce a claim.

Common Mistakes After an Accident

People often unintentionally harm their case by:

• Posting about the accident on social media

• Delaying medical care

• Accepting a fast settlement

• Giving recorded statements without advice

• Not documenting the scene

Once a claim is settled, it usually cannot be reopened — even if injuries worsen.

Final Thoughts

After an accident, your focus should be recovery and stability. Understanding the process early helps reduce stress and prevents costly errors.

If you have questions about your situation, getting reliable information can help you make informed decisions about next steps.

Disclaimer

This article is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Reading this article or contacting Main Street Law through this website does not create an attorney-client relationship. Every accident situation is different, and you should consult a qualified attorney regarding your specific circumstances.