Start with safety and care
Attend to immediate safety and medical needs first. Follow medical advice and keep the visit summaries you receive. Reporting duties vary by state and circumstances, so check the applicable local requirements.
Keep a clear account of the crash
Write down the date, place, vehicles and people involved, road conditions you observed, and any report number. Save photographs you already have, including vehicle damage and the scene, without putting yourself in danger to obtain more.
- Date, place and report number
- Available photographs and witness contact details
- Vehicle and repair information
Keep insurer communications together
Save claim numbers, names of insurers, letters, emails and notes of calls. Record what was requested and what you provided. Do not guess about facts you do not know.
- Policy and claim numbers
- Adjuster contact details
- Copies of statements, forms and correspondence
Bring the file to a consultation
A lawyer can identify what else is needed and which local rules may matter. Use a short timeline and separate confirmed facts from questions.