What should I do if I’m in an auto accident? | Shapiro, Washburn & Sharp

One of the first things to do is to obtain medical help for yourself and any passengers in your vehicle. If you are physically able, you should then collect the following information from the other driver:

  • Their name, address, phone number, and date of birth; 
  • Their driver’s license number, along with the expiration date;
  • Their auto insurance carrier;
  • The make, model, and license plate number and expiration. If possible, you should also obtain the vehicle identification number (VIN). All of this information can usually be found on the vehicle’s registration; 
  • The name, addresses, and phone numbers of any passengers in the other vehicle;
  • Try to obtain the names of any and all witnesses to the accident. If a witness will not identify themselves, you can write down their license plate number, which can be traced if their testimony is needed later on; and
  • If you have a camera on your cell phone, take photos of the scene, as well as any damage done to all vehicles involved;
  • Write down as many details as you can, such as weather conditions, road conditions or construction, etc.