Just had a car accident?

What to do at the scene and in the days after a crash to protect your health and your claim.

1. Get safe and get checked. Call 911 if anyone is hurt. Get a medical check even if you feel fine; some injuries show up later.
2. Exchange information. Names, phone numbers, insurance, license plates and driver's license numbers. Get witness names too.
3. Take photos. All vehicles, the road, signs, skid marks, weather and your injuries, before things are moved if it's safe.
4. Get the police report number. You'll need it for insurance. Ask where and when you can get a copy.
5. Tell your insurer, but be careful with theirs. Report the crash to your own insurer. You don't have to give the other driver's insurer a recorded statement.
6. Keep every bill and missed-work record. Medical bills, receipts and pay stubs all help show what the crash cost you.
7. Check your deadline. Use the deadline checker for your state. Claims against a city or state often need notice within months.