Discalimer: This information is provided for general guidance only and does not constitute legal or medical advice. For specific concerns, please consult a qualified professional or local authorities.
Whether a minor collision or a bigger and more serious crash, getting into a car accident can shock and overwhelm.
The Colorado Department of Transportation data shows that Denver traffic accidents alone experienced 15,256 incidents in 2024.
No one can be prepared when car accidents happen, but what you do afterwards can have a significant effect on your safety, your legal situation, and your right to get compensated for your injuries, no matter how minor the accident is on a busy street or how serious it is on the highway.
Ensure Safety First
Assessing injuries to yourself or passengers should be the first thing you do. If possible and safe, proceed to a safe place away from traffic to avoid further harm or accidents.
Keep your hazard lights on to attract the attention of cars approaching your location. If you are in the middle of the road, try to move to a safer place, but only if it is within your capacity to do so and will not put you in danger. Stay calm and move carefully to prevent any injuries from worsening.
Be watchful of your surroundings. Look out for cars coming your way or any other potential dangers. If you can, assess yourself and others to see if they have injuries and if you can help. Call emergency services immediately if anyone is seriously hurt or needs urgent medical assistance.
Call Emergency Services
Immediately call 911 or the local emergency number. Upon arriving, inform them of the accident’s location, how many vehicles are involved, and whether there are any visible wounds. Stay calm and answer their questions honestly. While waiting for assistance, they might instruct you on what to do next, so pay attention.
Keep your telephone in operational mode and wait until help arrives. If you are unsure about someone else’s condition, inform the operator. Quick intervention can save a life or prevent injuries from worsening. Health and safety should be the prime concern in all such decisions.
Exchange Information With Other Parties
While waiting for emergency services to arrive, both parties need to assure they exchange their information. To obtain the others, provide your name, contact information, and insurance details. If the accident generated any witnesses, get their names and phone numbers.
Be sure to write everything down or commit to memory all the vehicles’ particulars, including the make, model, and registration number. If your fellow driver does not cooperate reasonably, remain calm and polite. An argument would only escalate the situation.
Do not rush through the process. All details must be correct because this information will be used for insurance claims and possibly in legal proceedings later. In states where it applies, Personal Injury Protection (PIP) coverage may help pay for some of these expenses upfront, regardless of who was at fault.
Document the Scene
Documenting a traffic accident scene provides crucial evidence of the events that occurred. You may need these later to explain the situation to the authorities. Attorney Jacqueline A. Scott states that a strong case with evidence will get the justice and compensation you deserve in any potential legal actions.
Capture images of the wider scene, including traffic signs, road markings, and surroundings. Remember the time of day, date, and weather conditions. These are important, as these factors could potentially impact your case.
Collect witnesses’ accounts of how the events unfolded. It is critical to keep a detailed record of everything you observe, including exact times, statements, and any notable behaviors, and note useful information from your interactions with other drivers or witnesses.
Notify Your Insurance Company
Once you have collected all the necessary documentation from the scene, notify your company.
Call your agent or report through the app immediately after the accident. Inform them of the time, location, and how the incident happened. Provide them with any photos, witness statements, or contacts you have. Be honest and thorough with your details, allowing for an effortless claim process.
Please keep a copy of the police report; your insurance company may request it later. They will then guide you through the claims process and repairs. The process may be hectic and rigorous, but keeping a calm disposition will avoid future problems when making insurance claims.
