Free Checklist · PI Law

What to Do in the First Hour
After an Accident

Most people leave the scene without the three pieces of evidence that would have won their case.

N
Nikita Zlatopolsky
PI Attorney · Marietta, GA · Говорит по-русски
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Step 01 of 08
01
Call 911 — even for minor accidents

An official police report is essential documentation. Without it, liability becomes a he-said-she-said situation. Request a copy of the report number before you leave the scene.

Step 02 of 08
02
Do not admit fault or apologize

Even saying "I'm sorry" at the scene can be used as an admission of liability. Stick to exchanging information. Do not discuss how the accident happened with the other driver.

Step 03 of 08
03
Photograph everything before vehicles move

Take photos of all vehicles from multiple angles, skid marks, road conditions, traffic signs, weather, and any visible injuries. This evidence disappears the moment cars are moved or towed.

Step 04 of 08
04
Get the other driver's full information

Name, license number, insurance company, policy number, and license plate. Photograph their insurance card and driver's license directly. Don't rely on memory.

Step 05 of 08
05
Collect witness contact info

Independent witnesses are some of the most valuable evidence in a PI case. Get full names and phone numbers before they leave the scene. Many won't return your calls later.

Step 06 of 08
06
Note exact details of the scene

Time, exact location, road and weather conditions, traffic signal states, speed you were traveling, and what you saw immediately before impact. Write it down while it's fresh.

Step 07 of 08
07
Seek medical attention the same day

Even if you feel fine. Adrenaline masks pain. Whiplash, concussions, and soft tissue injuries often appear 24–72 hours later. A same-day medical record directly links your injuries to the accident.

Step 08 of 08
08
Do not speak to the other driver's insurer

Their adjuster may call within hours. You are not required to give a statement to the opposing insurance company. Politely decline and contact an attorney first.

What happens next matters too

These steps protect your case. But the decisions you make in the days that follow — medical care, what you say to adjusters, when you sign anything — are just as critical.

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