At the Scene
What should I say — or not say — after a car accident?
After an accident, it’s best to stick to the facts.
Try not to apologize or admit fault at the scene, even if you feel shaken or unsure. Fault is something that gets determined later, and statements made in the moment can sometimes be misunderstood.
When speaking with police or insurance representatives, calmly explain what happened without guessing or assigning blame.
If you’re unsure how to handle conversations after an accident, we can help guide you through it.Few readersWhat information should I collect at the scene of the accident?
If it’s safe and you’re able to, gathering basic information at the scene can be very helpful later.
Try to collect:
Names and contact details of everyone involved
Insurance information
License plate numbers and vehicle descriptions
Names and contact info for any witnesses
If you have a phone, take photos of:
Vehicle damage
The accident scene from multiple angles
Road conditions or traffic signs nearby
This information can be useful when speaking with insurance companies or if qFew readersShould I call the police after a car accident?
Yes. Even if the accident seems minor, it’s usually a good idea to contact the police.
An officer can come to the scene and create an official accident report. This report can be important later when dealing with insurance companies or questions about what happened.
If you’re in Springfield or the surrounding area, you can contact local police or state police to report the accident and request assistance.
If you’re unsure whether your situation requires a report, we can talk it through and helpFew readersI was just in a car accident. What should I do first?
Being in a car accident can be overwhelming, especially in the moment. The most important thing to focus on first is safety.
If you’re able to do so safely, move your vehicle out of traffic and turn on your hazard lights. Check yourself and anyone else involved for injuries. If anyone is hurt, or if you’re unsure, call 911 right away.
Once everyone is safe, try to stay calm. What you do in the first few minutes can make the situation easier to manage later.
If you’d like help understanding neFew readers