Knowing what should I do immediately after a collision before bringing my car in can make a real difference in your safety, your well being, and how smoothly everything unfolds afterward. A collision is stressful, whether it is a minor car accident or a more serious crash with injuries and property damage. The moments immediately following an accident are critical. The right actions help protect you, your passengers, the other driver, and everyone involved while also setting the stage for proper insurance claims and high quality repairs.

At Re-Lux Collision, we guide drivers through this situation every day. This article walks through the essential steps to take after a collision, written clearly and calmly, so you know exactly what to do before your vehicle ever arrives at our collision center.

First Things First: Make Sure Everyone Is Safe

Check for Injuries Immediately

Safety always comes first after an accident. Check yourself, your passengers, and the other parties involved for injuries. If anyone is injured, call 911 right away. Even if injuries seem minor, medical attention is critical. Pain and stiffness often show up later, especially after a car accident. Seeking medical attention early protects your health and creates documentation that matters for insurance claims.

Move to a Safe Location If Possible

If the vehicle can be moved and it is safe, pull out of traffic and onto the shoulder or a nearby parking area. Turn on hazard lights immediately to alert other drivers and help prevent additional accidents. Staying in traffic puts you at risk, especially on busy roads with poor visibility or relevant road conditions like rain or ice.

Call the Police and Understand Why It Matters

When You Should Always Call the Police

Police should be contacted whenever there are injuries, significant vehicle damage, or disagreement about fault. Authorities help manage traffic, assess the scene, and create an official police report. This report becomes an important part of your claim and protects all drivers involved.

What to Do If Police Do Not Respond

Sometimes police cannot respond to minor accidents. If that happens, you may still need to file a report yourself depending on state requirements. Most companies and insurance companies expect an official report when there is property damage or injuries.

How a Police Report Protects You

A police report documents details, identifies vehicles involved, and records statements from the driver, other driver, and witnesses. This information can be critical if potential legal actions arise later or if fault is questioned.

Exchange Information and Know What Not to Say

Information You Must Collect

After ensuring safety, exchange information with the other driver. Collect names, phone numbers, insurance company names, policy number, driver’s license number, and license plate information. This step is required for insurance claims and helps your insurer process the claim efficiently.

What You Should Never Admit at the Scene

Stay calm and avoid admitting fault. Do not discuss blame, money, or coverage details at the accident scene. Let insurance companies and authorities handle those decisions based on documentation and facts.

Dealing With an Uncooperative Other Driver

If the other driver refuses to exchange information, remain calm. Document what you can, note the license plate, vehicle description, and contact police. Your safety and documentation matter more than confrontation.

Document the Accident Like a Pro

Photos You Should Always Take

Use your phone to document the scene thoroughly. Take photos of vehicle damage, the position of each car, relevant road conditions, traffic signs, and debris. Photos help insurers assess the accident accurately.

Video and Written Details

A short video can capture the entire scene and show how vehicles involved came to rest. Write down details like time, location, weather, and what happened immediately before the crash.

Witnesses and Their Role

If witnesses are present, ask for their contact information. Independent accounts can support your report and insurance claims if there is disagreement later.

Seek Medical Attention Even If You Feel Fine

Why Medical Attention Matters

Injuries such as whiplash or soft tissue damage are common after a collision. Symptoms may not appear right away. Seeking medical attention protects your life and well being and ensures injuries are documented.

How Medical Records Support Your Claim

Medical documentation links injuries directly to the accident. This protects you during the claim process and helps avoid disputes with your insurer.

Be Careful With Towing, You Have the Right to Choose

What Consensual Towing Means

You control where your car is towed. Do not feel pressured by unsolicited tow trucks. Choosing where your vehicle goes helps protect you from unnecessary cost and delays.

Common Towing Issues After Accidents

Some companies target accident scenes and tow vehicles without proper authorization. This can lead to unexpected fees and complications.

Best Practices for Safe Towing

Contact your insurer, roadside assistance, or a trusted repair shop. Towing your car directly to a collision center simplifies the repair process.

Contact Your Insurance Company the Right Way

When to Notify Your Insurer

Notify your insurance company as soon as possible after the accident. Prompt contact helps your claim move forward without delays.

Information to Have Ready

Provide details from the accident scene, photos, police report information, and the other driver’s insurance policy details if available.

What Insurers Look For

Insurers assess consistency, documentation, vehicle damage, and statements from drivers involved. Clear records help protect your coverage and speed up insurance claims.

Do Not Delay Repairs: Hidden Damage Gets Worse

Why Modern Vehicles Need Immediate Inspection

Modern vehicles rely on sensors and structural components that can be damaged even in minor accidents. An inspection ensures hidden issues are addressed.

Risks of Driving a Damaged Vehicle

Driving with unresolved vehicle damage can compromise safety and lead to higher repair cost later. Insurance companies may also question coverage if damage worsens.

Why Choosing the Right Repair Shop Matters

A professional body shop or collision center follows manufacturer guidelines and ensures repairs restore safety, function, and value.

When Should You Bring Your Car to Re-Lux Collision?

Signs You Should Come In Immediately

Warning lights, steering issues, strange noises, or visible damage are signs your vehicle needs professional attention right away.

What Happens During the Repair Process

We inspect the vehicle, explain the repair process clearly, work with your insurer, and handle insurance claims support. Our focus is quality repairs and transparency.

How We Make the Process Easier

Our service includes clear communication, certified repairs, and help with rental car coordination if needed. We protect your time, money, and peace of mind.

Quick Accident Checklist

• Stay calm and ensure safety.
• Call police if needed.
• Prevent additional accidents by moving out of traffic.
• Exchange information with the other driver.
• Document the scene with photos and notes.
• Seek medical attention.
• Notify your insurance company.
• Schedule an inspection and begin repairs.

Frequently Asked Questions After a Collision

Should I call insurance before repairs?

Yes, notify your insurer before repairs begin so the claim is properly documented.

Can I choose my own repair shop?

Yes, you have the right to choose your repair shop regardless of insurer recommendations.

What if the accident was minor?

Even minor accidents can cause hidden damage. An inspection protects your vehicle and your coverage.

Will my car be a total loss?

Total loss decisions depend on repair cost versus vehicle value and your insurance policy.

Final Thoughts: Take a Breath and Take the Right Steps

A collision can disrupt your life in an instant, but taking the right steps immediately helps protect your safety, your vehicle, and your future. Focus on essential steps, stay calm, document everything, and choose a trusted collision center. When you are ready, Re-Lux Collision is here to help with honest service, professional repairs, and a free estimate to get you back on the road with confidence.