Car Accident Checklist: What to Do Immediately

Car accidents are unexpected and often stressful, leaving you unsure of your next steps. Whether the accident is minor or severe, knowing what to do in the immediate aftermath can significantly protect your safety, legal rights, and financial well-being. This comprehensive guide is tailored for Minnesota residents and designed to help you navigate the steps following a car accident confidently and clearly.

Ensure Your Safety and Assess the Situation

Move to a Safe Location

If your vehicle is drivable, move it to the shoulder of the road or a safe area nearby to avoid obstructing traffic and reduce the risk of further collisions. Turn on your hazard lights to warn other drivers. If your vehicle cannot be moved, remain inside with your seatbelt fastened and wait for emergency responders. Standing in traffic lanes increases the risk of additional accidents.

Check for Injuries

Evaluate yourself, your passengers, and anyone else involved for injuries. If anyone is hurt, even if the injuries seem minor, call 911 immediately. Your health and safety should always be your priority.

Assist Others Safely

If it’s safe, check on others involved in the accident. Offer assistance, but avoid moving anyone who appears injured unless they are in immediate danger. Moving injured individuals improperly could worsen their condition.

Contact Emergency Services

Call 911

Minnesota law requires you to report any accident that results in injury, death, or significant property damage. When speaking with the dispatcher, provide your location and a clear account of what happened. Avoid speculating about fault or cause.

Cooperate with Responders

When police, fire, or medical personnel arrive, follow their instructions. Provide accurate and factual information about the incident, but do not admit fault or offer opinions about the accident’s cause. Ask the responding officer for their name and badge number. These details can be helpful when obtaining a police report.

Gather and Document Evidence

Take Photos and Videos

Document the scene with your smartphone. Capture:

• The overall scene, including the position of vehicles.
• Vehicle damage and license plates.
• Traffic signs, road conditions, and skid marks.
• Visible injuries to yourself or others.

Photos and videos can be critical evidence for insurance claims or legal disputes.

Exchange Information

Obtain the following details from all drivers involved in the accident:

• Full name and contact information.
• Driver’s license number.
• Insurance company name and policy number.
• Vehicle make, model, and license plate number.

Speak to Witnesses

If there are witnesses, ask for their names and contact details. Witness accounts can support your version of events in case of disputes.

File Necessary Reports

Report the Accident to the Minnesota Department of Public Safety

If the accident caused injuries or property damage exceeding $1,000, Minnesota law requires you to file a report with the Department of Public Safety within ten days.

Request a Copy of the Police Report

Obtain the police report as soon as it’s available. This document provides an official record of the accident, which is essential for insurance claims and potential legal proceedings.

Notify Your Insurance Company

Report the Incident Promptly

Contact your insurance provider to report the incident. Please provide them with your collected details, including photos, witness information, and the police report.

Understand Minnesota’s No-Fault Insurance System

Minnesota follows a no-fault insurance system. This means your own insurance will cover medical expenses and lost wages up to a specific limit, regardless of who was at fault. If damages exceed your policy limits or involve significant injuries, you may need to file a liability claim against the other driver.

Provide Documentation

Be prepared to provide your insurer any additional information they request, such as repair estimates or medical bills. Maintaining organized records will help expedite the claims process.

Seek Medical Attention

Get a Thorough Medical Evaluation

Even if you feel fine, some injuries whiplash, concussions, or internal trauma-may not appear immediately. Visit a doctor as soon as possible to document any injuries linked to the accident.

Maintain Detailed Medical Records

Keep copies of all medical reports, bills, and treatment plans. These documents are crucial for pursuing compensation for your injuries and related expenses.

Protect Your Legal Rights

Avoid Quick Settlements

Insurance companies may pressure you to settle quickly. Initial offers are often lower than what you may be entitled to receive. Consult an attorney before agreeing to any settlement.

Consult an Experienced Attorney

Navigating the legal and insurance processes after a car accident can be overwhelming. An experienced Minnesota car accident attorney can guide you through the process, negotiate with insurance companies on your behalf, and ensure you receive fair compensation for your injuries, property damage, and other losses.

Understand the Statute of Limitations

In Minnesota, the statute of limitations for personal injury claims related to car accidents is generally two years from the date of the accident. Missing this deadline could prevent you from pursuing compensation.

Why Choose PHB Law Office

At PHB Law Office, we specialize in helping Minnesota residents recover after car accidents. Our dedicated attorneys provide compassionate, strategic guidance to protect your rights and secure the compensation you deserve. Whether you’re dealing with minor injuries or complex claims, we are here to help every step of the way.

Contact PHB Law Office Today

Don’t navigate the challenges alone if you’ve been in a car accident. Contact PHB Law Office today to schedule a consultation and take the first steps toward recovery and justice.