What to Do After a Car Accident: A Step-by-StepGuide

A car accident can turn your day upside down in an instant. Whether it’s a serious collision or a minor fender bender, the steps you take immediately afterward can make a big difference—especially if you need to pursue an injury claim later. Here’s a list of things every driver should remember after an accident.

1. Always Call the Police

No matter how minor the accident seems, it’s important to call the police. An official police report provides crucial documentation of the accident, which helps protect your rights if there are disputes later. Insurance companies often rely heavily on police reports when determining fault.

Without a report, your case may become a matter of conflicting stories—and that can make it much harder to prove what really happened.

2. Take Photos of Everything

Photographs are some of the most important evidence you can collect at the scene. Use your phone to take pictures of:

• Damage to all vehicles involved
• The accident location, including intersections and road signs
• Vehicle license plates
• Any visible injuries

Having clear visual evidence helps document the facts of the accident and supports your version of events.

3. Avoid Giving a Recorded Statement to the Other Insurance Company

It’s common for the other driver’s insurance company to call and ask for a recorded statement shortly after a crash. However, it’s best not to provide one without speaking to a lawyer first.

Insurance adjusters are trained to ask questions that may limit the value of your claim or shift blame. Politely decline the statement and instead consult with a personal injury attorney to understand your rights and how best to proceed.

4. Identify and Record Witnesses

If anyone witnessed the accident, try to collect their name and contact information at the scene. Third-party witness statements can provide powerful, objective support for your case. Insurance companies and courts place a high value on independent observations that confirm how the accident happened.

5. Be Aware of Insurance Company Tactics

In comparative fault states like Kansas, insurance companies may try to shift partial blame onto you—even in situations where the other driver clearly caused the crash. This tactic can reduce the amount of compensation you’re eligible to receive.

It’s important to recognize this strategy early on. Thorough documentation, witness statements, and legal support can help counter these attempts and strengthen your case.

Final Thoughts

Knowing what to do after an accident can save you time, stress, and money. Always prioritize safety, document everything you can, and avoid discussing the accident in detail with the other driver’s insurance company until you’ve spoken with an attorney.

If you’ve been injured in a car accident in Kansas or Missouri and need legal guidance, the team at Patton and Patton is here to help. Our family-run firm has over 40 years of experience handling personal injury cases—and we’re committed to helping you get the justice you deserve.