Car accident what to do

{{whyLabel}}: Leaving the scene of an accident is a criminal offense, and hazard lights prevent secondary collisions by alerting oncoming traffic.

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• Bring the car to a full stop immediately, even if the damage seems minor.
• Switch on your hazard warning lights.
• Turn off the engine to reduce fire risk.

{{doneWhenLabel}}: The vehicle is stationary with hazard lights flashing.

{{whyLabel}}: Proper signaling protects you and other drivers from high-speed impacts, especially in low visibility.

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• Put on a high-visibility reflective vest before exiting the vehicle.
• Place the warning triangle 50 meters away in urban areas and 100–150 meters away on highways.
• Walk behind the guardrail or on the shoulder while carrying the triangle.

{{doneWhenLabel}}: The warning triangle is correctly positioned and you are in a safe area.

{{whyLabel}}: Professional medical help is critical for hidden injuries like internal bleeding, and a police presence ensures an unbiased official report.

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• Dial 112 (Europe) or 911 (North America) immediately if anyone is injured.
• Provide the '5 Ws': Who is calling, What happened, Where did it happen, How many are injured, and Wait for questions.
• Request police even for minor accidents to ensure documentation for insurance.

{{doneWhenLabel}}: Emergency dispatch has confirmed that help is on the way.

{{whyLabel}}: You need specific data to file a claim; missing info can delay or void your insurance payout.

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• Collect: Full name, address, phone number, and driver's license number.
• Record: Insurance company name, policy number, and vehicle plate number.
• Note: Make, model, and color of all involved vehicles.

{{doneWhenLabel}}: You have a complete list of the other driver's details.

{{whyLabel}}: Visual evidence is the most reliable way to prove fault and damage extent before vehicles are moved.

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• Take wide shots showing the position of all cars relative to road markings.
• Capture close-ups of damage, license plates, and any debris on the road.
• Photograph skid marks, traffic signs, and current weather/lighting conditions.

{{doneWhenLabel}}: You have at least 10-15 clear photos from multiple angles.

{{whyLabel}}: Neutral third-party accounts are vital if the other driver changes their story later.

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• Approach bystanders who saw the impact.
• Ask for their names and contact numbers.
• Record a short voice memo or video of their account if they agree.

{{doneWhenLabel}}: You have contact info for at least one independent witness.

{{whyLabel}}: Most policies require 'prompt' notification; waiting longer than 48-72 hours can give insurers a reason to deny the claim.

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• Call your insurer's 24/7 claims hotline.
• Stick to the facts: date, time, location, and parties involved.
• Do NOT admit fault or speculate on the cause during this initial call.

{{doneWhenLabel}}: You have a claim number and an assigned adjuster.

{{whyLabel}}: In many jurisdictions (like Florida or Germany), failing to see a doctor within 14 days can void your right to Personal Injury Protection (PIP) or pain/suffering compensation.

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• Visit an urgent care center or your primary physician even if you feel 'fine'.
• Mention specific symptoms like neck stiffness, headaches, or dizziness (common signs of whiplash).
• Keep all medical receipts and the doctor's report.

{{doneWhenLabel}}: You have a medical report linking your physical state to the accident.

{{whyLabel}}: The police report is the definitive document used by insurance adjusters to determine liability.

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• Ask the officer at the scene for the 'Incident Number'.
• Wait 3–10 business days for the report to be processed.
• Request a copy online via the local police department's portal (usually costs $5–$20).

{{doneWhenLabel}}: You have a digital or physical copy of the official report.

{{whyLabel}}: Insurance companies often suggest their own 'preferred' shops, but you have the right to choose; multiple quotes ensure you aren't being underpaid.

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• Visit local certified collision centers.
• Ensure they use OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer) parts rather than generic alternatives.
• Compare the labor rates and estimated completion times.

{{doneWhenLabel}}: You have three written quotes to present to your adjuster.

{{whyLabel}}: Major structural repairs may require a new safety inspection (like the German TÜV or state safety checks) to remain legal and safe.

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• Check if the accident affected the chassis, steering, or airbags.
• Schedule a voluntary safety check if the repair was extensive.
• Ensure all lights, sensors (ADAS), and wheel alignments are recalibrated.

{{doneWhenLabel}}: The vehicle has a passed inspection certificate or professional sign-off.

{{whyLabel}}: If you had the wrong tires for the season (e.g., summer tires in snow), your insurance may reduce your payout due to 'gross negligence'.

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• Inspect all tires for flat spots or sidewall damage caused by the impact.
• Verify tread depth is above 1.6mm (legal minimum) or 4mm (recommended for winter).
• Ensure tires match the current season's requirements.

{{doneWhenLabel}}: Tires are confirmed safe and legally compliant for the current season.

{{whyLabel}}: Used items (like bandages or flares) must be replaced immediately to be ready for the next emergency.

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• Replace any used first-aid supplies.
• Check the expiration date on the fire extinguisher and medical kit.
• Add a disposable camera or a printed 'Accident Info Card' for future use.

{{doneWhenLabel}}: The emergency kit is fully replenished and back in the trunk.