After The Crash: 7 Critical Steps To Take And Why Evidence Can Make Or Break Your Injury Claim

A car or truck accident happens in seconds, but what you do in the minutes, hours, and days afterward can have a major impact on your health, your recovery, and your legal rights. Many people assume insurance companies will “do the right thing.” Unfortunately, they often work to minimize payouts, dispute injuries, or shift blame onto the victim.

That’s why protecting your claim starts immediately after the accident. Here are the seven most important steps to take, and why each one matters.

#1: Call 911 and report the accident 

Even if the accident doesn’t seem like a big deal at first, it’s still important to call the police. Having an official report can make a big difference later on. The report will show what happened, who was involved, what injuries or damage were visible at the scene, and even what the road and weather conditions were like. If there were witnesses, their statements get recorded too.

#2: Seek medical attention right away 

Your health comes first. Some injuries, especially neck, back, and internal injuries, don’t appear immediately. Getting evaluated creates a medical record, which is critical evidence showing:

• You were injured
• The crash caused your injuries
• You received treatment promptly

Delaying care is one of the most common mistakes that victims make, and insurers use it to deny claims.

#3: Document the scene thoroughly 

Evidence fades quickly. Before vehicles are moved or conditions change, take as many photos as possible, including:

• Vehicle positions and damage
• Skid marks
• Debris fields
• Road conditions (wet, dark, obstructed, etc.)
• Traffic lights or signs
• Visible injuries

If you’re unable to take photos, ask a passenger or witness for help.

#4: Gather contact information

Collect the names and contact numbers of:

• The other driver(s)
• Witnesses
• First responders
• Anyone who saw the crash occur

Witness testimony can become crucial if fault is contested.

#5: Notify your insurance company, but be careful what you say

You must report the accident, but stick to the basic facts. Do not speculate about fault or injuries. The other driver’s insurer may also call you; you’re not required to give a recorded statement, and doing so can harm your case.

#6: Preserve all records and bills 

Keep everything related to the crash, including:

• Medical records
• Repair estimates
• Pay stubs showing lost wages
• Medication receipts
• Out-of-pocket expenses

These documents help calculate the full value of your claim.

#7: Contact a personal injury attorney early

A lawyer can immediately begin protecting evidence that might otherwise disappear, such as:

• Traffic-camera footage
• Commercial truck black-box data
• Driver logs
• Maintenance records
• Phone records if distracted driving is suspected

As one recent legal guidance article emphasized, strong documentation is often the difference between a denied claim and a full recovery.

Talk to a Jacksonville, FL, Personal Injury Lawyer Today 

Gillette Law represents the interests of plaintiffs in personal injury lawsuits filed against negligent defendants. Call our Jacksonville personal injury lawyers office today to schedule an appointment, and we can begin investigating your case today.