What to Do After a Car Accident: A Step-by-Step Guide
Car accidents are stressful, disorienting, and often happen when you least expect them. Knowing what to do before you’re ever in that situation can make a huge difference — for your safety, your legal rights, and your insurance claim.
If you’re involved in a car accident in Pennsylvania, here’s a clear, practical guide to help you navigate the moments immediately after the crash and the important steps that follow.
1. Prioritize Safety First
The moment an accident happens, your first responsibility is safety.
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Stop your vehicle immediately and remain at or as close to the scene as possible. Leaving the scene can result in serious criminal penalties.
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Turn on your hazard lights and, if the vehicle can be moved safely, pull off to the side of the road to avoid further collisions.
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Check for injuries — yourself, your passengers, and anyone else involved.
If anyone is injured, trapped, or unconscious, call 911 right away.
2. Call the Police When Required
In Pennsylvania, you must report an accident if it involves:
Calling the police ensures an official accident report is created, which can be critical for insurance claims and legal matters.
3. Exchange Information — But Don’t Admit Fault
After everyone is safe, exchange basic information with the other driver(s), including:
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Name and contact details
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Driver’s license number
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Insurance company and policy number
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Vehicle make, model, and license plate
Avoid discussing who caused the accident. Even saying “I’m sorry” can be misinterpreted as an admission of fault later.
If it’s safe to do so, gather as much evidence as possible:
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Take photos of all vehicles involved
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Capture damage, skid marks, debris, and road conditions
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Photograph traffic signs or signals
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Collect witness names and contact information
These details can be extremely helpful if there’s a dispute about what happened.
5. Seek Medical Attention if Injured
If you experience any physical symptoms following a car accident, it is important to clearly state that the injuries are related to the collision.
When speaking with medical providers or insurance representatives, ensure that the date of the accident and the connection between the accident and your symptoms are properly documented. Accurate reporting helps establish a clear record for insurance and legal purposes.
6. Notify Your Insurance Company Promptly
Report the accident to your insurance company as soon as possible. Stick to the basic facts and avoid giving recorded statements or detailed explanations until you understand your coverage.
Pennsylvania is a no-fault insurance state, meaning your own insurance typically pays for your medical expenses first through Personal Injury Protection (PIP), regardless of who caused the accident.
7. Keep Organized Records
Create a file for everything related to the accident, including:
Good documentation can save time, reduce stress, and strengthen your position if disputes arise.
Special Situation: Hit-and-Run Accidents
If the other driver leaves the scene:
Car accidents are never easy, but knowing what steps to take can help you stay calm, compliant with Pennsylvania law, and protected financially. Keeping this guide in mind — or even saving it to your phone — can make a stressful moment much more manageable.