4 Things to Do After Your First Ever Car Accident

We all drive along in a bubble. The ride is smooth, the temperature is just right (maybe some seat heating during a cold spell) and your favorite radio station is playing. The sound, feeling, and sight of having a crash is a total shocker. It’s never something you expect to happen, and it can leave you reeling for a long time to come. And you’ve probably never felt as vulnerable behind the wheel as you do now. But you’re not alone, unfortunately. Accidents happen daily, and knowing what to do in the days ahead will make all the difference. The first moments after a car accident can feel surreal. Adrenaline pumps through your veins, and your thoughts are racing.

But you get through it. You check everyone’s alright, get to safety, get medical attention if needed, and then speak to the police. But then what? The days and weeks ahead can feel unknown. Here are some of the first moments after a car accident.

1. Speak To Your Insurance Company

Once the dust has settled, it’s time to call your insurance company. Promptly notifying your insurer is often a requirement of your policy. Be ready to provide them with:

a. The accident location and time

b. A description of what happened

c. The other driver’s information

d. Photos and documentation from the scene.

Your insurance company will guide you through the next steps, whether it’s arranging for repairs, covering a rental car, or starting the claims process.

It’s essential to be aware of some common clauses in your insurance policy when filing a claim. For instance, many policies require you to pay an excess, or deductible, before the insurer covers the remaining costs. Additionally, the insurance company may need to investigate the incident to determine what happened and who was at fault. This process can influence how your claim is assessed and whether your policy fully covers the damages. Understanding these details in advance can save you from unexpected surprises and help you handle the claims process more smoothly.

2. Speak to a Lawyer

After speaking with your insurance company, you should seriously consider consulting a lawyer, particularly if the accident involves significant damages, injuries, or disputes about liability. A skilled attorney can help you understand your rights, review your case, and ensure you’re not settling for less than you deserve. And if you’re injured, you’ll benefit from working with an attorney specializing in car accident injury claims. They’ll guide you through the legal intricacies and represent your best interests, whether it’s negotiating with other parties, handling legal filings, or advocating for you in court if necessary.

A lawyer will be able to:

a. Provide expert advice on legal strategies tailored to your unique case, helping you make informed decisions every step of the way.

b. Negotiate with insurance companies to secure fair compensation for medical bills, property damage, and emotional distress.

c. Gather and organize crucial evidence, such as police reports, witness statements, and medical records, to build a strong case.

d. Represent you in court with skill and confidence if a settlement can’t be reached, ensuring your rights are vigorously defended.

Speaking with a lawyer provides clarity and peace of mind during what can otherwise be a stressful experience.

3. Take Care of Yourself Post-Accident

An accident doesn’t just leave dents in your car — it can leave emotional and psychological marks as well. Post-accident anxiety is real, and it’s perfectly normal to feel shaken up, even if the crash wasn’t that serious.

These are some things people find helpful in the weeks and months after a car crash.

a. Practice mindfulness: Engage in activities such as meditation, yoga, or gentle stretching to calm your mind and reduce stress. These practices can help center your thoughts and ease lingering anxiety.

b. Stay active: Once you’re physically able, light exercises like walking or swimming can promote the release of endorphins, boosting your mood and aiding in recovery.

c. Build a support system: Surround yourself with supportive friends, family, or even support groups who understand what you’re going through and can provide comfort and encouragement.

d. Maintain a healthy routine: Establish regular sleeping patterns, eat nutritious meals, and stay hydrated to help both your body and mind recover from the experience.

Give yourself time to process what happened. Talk to a friend, family member, or counselor if you’re feeling uneasy about getting back behind the wheel. And don’t underestimate the power of deep breaths and a good night’s sleep.

4. Learn from the Experience

Every accident is a learning opportunity, even the stressful ones. Take a moment to reflect on what happened and ask yourself:

a. Could I have reacted differently or avoided the accident?

b. Am I confident I understand traffic laws well enough?

c. Is it time to take a driving refresher course?

Car accidents often stem from common causes such as distracted driving, speeding, and failure to adhere to traffic signals. Distractions like texting, eating, or even adjusting the radio can divert your focus from the road, increasing the risk of a collision. Speeding reduces your ability to react to sudden changes, such as a car braking unexpectedly or a pedestrian crossing the street. To stay safer, always remain attentive, reduce distractions, and follow speed limits. If you’re a victim, staying alert as a pedestrian or cyclist, obeying traffic signs, and crossing streets responsibly can also minimize risks. Taking small but consistent measures can help ensure safety for you and those around you.

No one’s perfect, and sometimes accidents are truly unavoidable. But learning from the experience will help you become a safer, more confident driver moving forward.

It’s normal to feel shaken after a car accident. Knowing that you will get through it will help you move forward with confidence.