Blog

Legal Tip Monday: What To Do Immediately After a Car Accident — Even If It Seems Minor

Car accidents happen fast — in traffic, in a parking lot, or even pulling out of your driveway. And whether you’re a college student rushing to class, a young professional heading to work, or a parent driving kids around, knowing what to do immediately after a car accident can protect your health, your finances, and your legal rights.

Even a minor accident can turn into a major problem later if the right steps aren’t taken.
Today’s Legal Tip Monday breaks down the 9 essential things to do after a car crash — simple, clear, and attorney-approved.

1. Stop, breathe, and check for injuries

Your safety comes first. Before anything else:

Check yourself for injuries
Check passengers
Check the other driver if it’s safe

If anyone is injured, or if you’re unsure, call 911 immediately. Some injuries aren’t obvious at first, so err on the side of caution.

2. Move to a safe location if possible

If the vehicles can be moved, pull over to the shoulder or into a nearby parking lot.
If not, turn on your hazard lights and stay inside the car until it’s safe to exit.

This protects you from additional collisions — one of the most common secondary accident risks.

3. Call the police — even for minor accidents

Many people skip this step.
Don’t.

A police report:

Documents the facts of the accident
Helps protect you from false claims
Strengthens your insurance claim
Serves as proof if an attorney needs to step in

If the other driver insists, “We don’t need the police,” treat that as a red flag.

4. Never admit fault — just share the facts

You may feel responsible. You may think you caused it.
But you do not know yet.

Fault is determined by:

investigation
evidence
state traffic laws

Saying “It was my fault” — even casually — can hurt your case. Stick to basic information only.

5. Document everything at the scene

Your phone is your best tool after a car accident.

Take photos of:

All vehicle damage
License plates
Street signs and intersections
Road or weather conditions
Any visible injuries
Driver’s license + insurance card (with permission)

Photos can make or break an insurance claim — and they help attorneys build a stronger case.

6. Get witness contact information

If anyone saw the accident, politely ask for:

Name
Phone number
A brief statement (even a text is helpful)

Witness statements significantly strengthen your insurance or injury claim.

7. Seek medical attention — even if you feel fine

Many injuries show delayed symptoms, including:

Whiplash
Concussions
Back or neck injuries
Soft-tissue damage

Getting checked early protects your health and documents the injury in case you need an attorney or insurance claim later.

8. Contact an attorney BEFORE speaking to insurance

Insurance companies sound friendly — but their real goal is to pay as little as possible.

Speaking with an attorney first:

Protects your legal rights
Helps you avoid hurting your claim
Ensures your settlement offer is fair
Gives you clarity on next steps
With Legal Buddy App, you can instantly connect to a local attorney — right from your phone.
No searching, no guessing, no stress.

9. Keep every document organized

Save your:

Claim numbers
Repair estimates
Medical bills
Photos
Texts with the other driver or insurance
Police report details

Good documentation = a smoother, faster, and often higher-value claim.

BOTTOM LINE

Knowing what to do after a car accident — even a minor one — can protect your health, your wallet, and your legal rights. Stay calm, follow these steps, and don’t try to handle the aftermath alone.

👉 Download Legal Buddy App at www.LegalBuddyApp.com
Connect instantly with a verified local attorney when you need help most.

Disclaimer

This post is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not legal advice. Downloading or using Legal Buddy App does not create an attorney-client relationship. Always consult a licensed attorney in your state for legal advice regarding your specific situation