What should I never say after a car accident?

Do not apologize, admit fault, or speculate about who caused the accident — even if you think you may be at fault. Do not discuss your injuries (the full extent may not be apparent yet). Do not share your insurance policy limits with the other party. Stick to exchanging the required factual information only.

Should I see a doctor after an accident even if I feel fine?

Yes. Soft tissue injuries, whiplash, and concussions often do not produce symptoms until 24–72 hours after impact. Seeing a doctor promptly creates a medical record that connects your injuries to the accident — which is essential if you later need to file an injury claim.

What if the other driver leaves the scene?

Do not chase them. Note as much information as you can — vehicle description, partial plate number, direction of travel — and call 911 immediately. Photograph the scene thoroughly. Your uninsured motorist (UM) coverage applies to hit-and-run incidents.

Do I have to report an accident to my own insurance even if it was not my fault?

Yes. Your policy requires you to report accidents promptly regardless of fault. Failing to notify your carrier can jeopardize your own coverage. You can file with the at-fault driver's carrier, but your own carrier must be notified. VKOVR advisors coordinate both if needed.

Claim Guide · Auto

What to Do After a Car Accident

The moments after an accident are stressful and confusing. This guide tells you exactly what to do — in order — so you protect your safety, your legal rights, and your insurance claim.

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Quick Reference — What to Do at the Scene

At the Scene

Turn on hazards • Move to safety if possible • Call 911 if injuries exist • Do not admit fault

Document Everything

All vehicles from multiple angles • License plates • Road conditions and signs • Visible injuries • Witness information

Exchange Information

Other driver name, phone, address • License and plate number • Insurance carrier and policy number

Report Promptly

Call VKOVR or your carrier immediately • Request police report number • Do not discuss fault or injuries in detail

Vehicle & Medical

Do not drive a damaged vehicle if unsafe • Seek medical attention even without obvious symptoms — injuries can appear hours later

After the Scene

Save all receipts for rental cars and medical visits • Get written repair estimates • Keep all claim correspondence

Step-by-Step: After a Car Accident

Step 1

Step 1: Ensure Safety First

Move to a safe location if possible — out of traffic lanes. Turn on your hazard lights. Check yourself and passengers for injuries. Call 911 immediately if anyone is injured, if the road is blocked, or if the vehicles cannot be moved safely. Do not move an injured person unless they are in immediate danger.

Step 2

Step 2: Call Police and Document the Scene

Request a police report even for minor accidents — it creates an official record that protects you during claims. While waiting, take photos and videos of all vehicles from multiple angles, the license plates, road conditions, traffic signs, skid marks, and any visible injuries. Photograph before any vehicle is moved.

Step 3

Step 3: Exchange Information

Collect the other driver's: full name, phone number, address, driver's license number, vehicle make/model/year/color, license plate number, and insurance carrier and policy number. Also note any witnesses' names and contact information. Do not admit fault or discuss the incident beyond the necessary exchange.

Step 4

Step 4: Notify VKOVR and Your Insurance Carrier

Contact VKOVR as soon as you are safe — even from the scene. We guide you through what to say to your carrier, what not to say, and how to categorize the incident. Report the accident to your own carrier even if the other driver was at fault — your policy requires prompt notification.

Step 5

Step 5: File Your Claim

Submit your auto claim with all the documentation you collected. Include the police report number, photos, driver and witness information, and a factual description of the incident. VKOVR advisors review your claim package before submission to ensure nothing is missing that could delay your settlement.

After an Accident — FAQ

Yes, whenever possible. A police report creates an official record of the incident that is valuable if the other party later disputes liability or claims additional injuries. Some states require reporting accidents above a certain damage threshold. Better to have a report and not need it than need one and not have it.

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