What to do in the first 48 hours after a car accident
The exact checklist — photographs, police reports, medical records, what to say to insurers, and what not to sign.
The 48 hours after a car accident shape the next two years of your case more than any other window. Here’s what to do — and what not to do.
1. At the scene (first 30 minutes)
If you can move safely, move out of traffic. If you can’t, leave the vehicle where it is — don’t risk a secondary collision.
- Call 911. Even minor accidents need a police report — your insurer will want one, and “I didn’t think it was serious” doesn’t cut it later.
- Take photos before anything moves. Wide shots showing both vehicles + road context, then close-ups of damage from each angle. Get the license plates, the other driver’s insurance card, and the road conditions.
- Get the other driver’s name, address, phone, license, insurance carrier, and policy number. Don’t accept a verbal “I’ll send it later.”
- Note witnesses. Their phone numbers matter more than their statements right now — you can interview them later but only if you can find them.
Do not apologize at the scene, even reflexively. “Sorry” can be quoted later as an admission of fault. Limit yourself to “Are you OK?” and exchanging information.
2. Within the first 24 hours
Even if you feel fine, see a doctor. Soft-tissue injuries, concussions, and back issues often present 12-72 hours after the impact. A medical record dated to the day of the accident is the single most valuable piece of evidence in any future claim.
- Urgent care or your primary doctor; mention the accident explicitly so it’s coded that way.
- Request copies of all records and bills as you go — don’t rely on retrieving them later.
- Save every prescription receipt, every co-pay, every Uber to the appointment.
Also: report the accident to your own insurance carrier within 24 hours regardless of fault. Most policies require prompt notice; missing the window can void coverage.
3. Within the first 48 hours
This is when the other driver’s insurance company will start calling you. They are not your friend. Their job is to settle your claim for as little as possible, as quickly as possible, before you’ve talked to a lawyer.
If the other driver’s insurer calls, you only have to give them the bare facts: your name, your insurance carrier, the date and location of the accident. You do not have to give a recorded statement, agree to a settlement, or sign anything. “I’m still being treated and will follow up” is a complete sentence.
4. What can quietly destroy your case
- Posting on social media. A photo of you smiling at brunch three days after a “back injury” claim will appear in court. Lock down or pause your accounts entirely until the claim resolves.
- Gaps in medical treatment. If your doctor recommends physical therapy and you skip 3 weeks, the insurer will argue you weren’t really hurt.
- Talking to the other side’s adjuster without counsel. Recorded statements get edited and replayed.
- Accepting a quick lowball offer. Once you sign, the case is done — even if you find out two months later that you need surgery.
5. When to hire a lawyer
If any of these apply, talk to a personal-injury lawyer within the first week:
- Anyone went to the ER or had a fracture, head injury, or hospital stay.
- The other driver’s insurer is disputing fault.
- The settlement offer doesn’t cover your medical bills + lost wages + repair.
- The other driver was uninsured or underinsured.
- You were a passenger, pedestrian, or cyclist (these cases have specific procedural quirks).
Most personal-injury lawyers work on contingency — they only get paid if you win, typically 33-40% of the recovery. Initial consultations are almost always free.
This article is general information, not legal advice. Personal injury law varies by state. Consult a local lawyer for your specific situation.