what to do right after a car accident

steps in order, the ones that actually matter. not legal advice, just what I did wrong the first time and right the second.

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Stop the car and check for injuries before anything else

(learned this one late) I sat there dazed for a full minute before checking on my kid. people first, everything else after

Call 911 if anyone is hurt or the cars are blocking traffic

Move to the shoulder if the cars still drive

do this first if you can, before you exchange a single word with the other driver

Call the police even for a small fender bender

insurance wanted a report number for a scratch. glad we had one

Exchange name, insurance, plate, and license, not just phone numbers

Take photos of everything before anyone moves their car

the tow truck guy offered to push my car aside to "help." that's the shot you needed

Get contact info from any witnesses standing around

Don't say sorry or anything close to it at the scene

an adjuster used my "I didn't even see you" against me once. stick to facts only

Call your insurance within 24 hours, even a small claim

waiting made mine slower, not cheaper

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