These are a general guide to personal injury cases; they hold true in the case of auto accidents. Following the accident, DO:

• Make sure that those needing medical attention receive it
• Call the police
• Cooperate with professionals who respond to the accident, including the police, firefighters, all law enforcement agents, and any emergency medical personnel
• Get the information of all persons involved in the accident (name, address, telephone number, insurance information, drivers’ license information)
• Get the information of all cars involved (license plate number, insurance information, year, make, model, color)
• Get the names and numbers of any witnesses, as well as permission to call
• Inform your insurance companies
• As soon as possible, take photographs of the scene, attempting to capture the entire context and the extent of the damage
• Contact your car accident attorney

Following the accident, you should NOT:

• Move your vehicle, unless it is necessary for safety or legal reasons
• Stand or wait in an unsafe area, thereby increasing the possibility of further injury or damage
• Leave the scene until given permission by the police
• Dispose of anything that may be evidence, including broken or defective products, or items of clothing that were damaged, torn, or blood-stained
• Remain in a dangerous area, such as a car that is on fire. Once you are safe, call for help.
• Discuss fault or apologize
• Agree to a settlement with an insurance company before speaking with an auto accident attorney