Accident and Injury Checklist — What to Do at the Scene

You’ve been in a car accident and you’re shaken up. It’s hard to think clearly when you’re in shock. That’s why having a checklist matters — so you don’t forget critical steps that could make or break your case later.

Save this page to your phone. You’ll be glad you did.

At the Scene

• Stop your vehicle and turn on hazard lights. Do not leave the scene — it’s a crime under Arizona law.
• Call 911. Report the accident even if it seems minor. Request police and paramedics.
• Check for injuries. Check yourself and passengers. Don’t move anyone who may have a spinal injury.
• Move to safety if possible. If the vehicles are drivable and blocking traffic, Arizona law allows you to move them to the shoulder.

Gather Information

• Other driver’s full name and contact info
• Driver’s license number
• Insurance company name and policy number
• License plate number(s)
• Vehicle make, model, color, and year
• Names and contact info of any witnesses
• Badge number of responding officer
• Police report number (ask the officer for this)

Document the Scene

• Photograph everything: vehicle damage from all angles, the overall scene, traffic signs and signals, road conditions, skid marks, debris, weather conditions, and any visible injuries.
• Note the time, date, and location.
• Note traffic and weather conditions.
• Look for cameras — traffic cameras, business security cameras, dashcam footage from other vehicles.

What NOT to Do

• Don’t apologize or admit fault. Even “I’m sorry” can be used against you.
• Don’t give a recorded statement to the other driver’s insurance company without talking to a lawyer first.
• Don’t post about the accident on social media. Insurance adjusters monitor social media. Anything you post can and will be used against you.
• Don’t accept a quick settlement offer. The first offer from the insurance company is almost always a lowball designed to close your claim before you understand its full value.
• Don’t skip medical treatment. Go to a doctor within 24-48 hours even if you feel fine. Gaps in treatment give the insurance company ammunition to deny your claim.

After the Scene

• Seek medical attention within 24-48 hours even for seemingly minor injuries.
• Follow your doctor’s treatment plan completely. Don’t skip appointments.
• Keep a file of all accident-related documents: police report, medical records, bills, correspondence with insurance companies, photos.
• Start a pain journal. Document your symptoms, limitations, and how the injuries affect your daily life.
• Contact a personal injury attorney before talking to any insurance adjuster.

When to Call the Law Badgers

If you’ve been injured, if there’s a dispute about fault, if the other driver fled (hit and run), or if the insurance company is giving you the runaround — call us at (833) DTF-IGHT for a free consultation. The statute of limitations is two years, but evidence disappears much faster than that.