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Quick, low-risk steps

  1. Ensure safety: move to a secure area, turn on hazard lights, and call 911 if there are injuries, fire, or traffic danger.
  2. Follow police and road-authority instructions; do not stand in traffic or between vehicles.
  3. Document the scene: take photos of all vehicles, damage, license plates, and the surrounding area.
  4. Exchange insurance and contact information with other drivers; note witness details.
  5. Contact your insurer before authorizing a tow; confirm coverage, preferred providers, and claim procedures.
  6. Before the tow, confirm the destination, total cost, included miles, equipment type, and any extra charges.

Immediate Safety and Emergency Steps

Your first priority is safety. Check for injuries and call 911 if anyone is hurt, if there is fire or smoke, or if the crash creates a traffic hazard. Turn on your hazard lights and, if the vehicle is drivable and it is safe to move, pull over to the shoulder or a nearby safe location away from traffic.

Follow all instructions from police and emergency responders. They will secure the scene and direct traffic. Do not attempt to move an injured person unless there is an immediate danger like fire. Stay calm and wait for help to arrive.

  • Call 911 for injuries, fire, leaking fuel, or if the vehicle is blocking traffic.
  • Turn on hazard lights and set up reflective triangles if you have them and it is safe.
  • Do not stand between vehicles or in the roadway.
  • Follow police and road-authority instructions at all times.
  • If you are in a dangerous location and cannot exit safely, stay in the vehicle with your seatbelt fastened.

Documenting the Accident Scene

Gather as much information as possible while at the scene. Use your phone to take clear photos of all vehicles involved, showing damage, license plates, and the overall scene including road conditions, traffic signs, and weather. These photos can be crucial for insurance claims and any disputes.

Exchange information with the other driver(s): full name, contact details, insurance company and policy number, driver's license number, and vehicle make, model, and license plate. If there are witnesses, politely ask for their contact information. Write down the location, time, and a brief description of what happened while it is fresh in your memory.

  • Photograph all vehicles from multiple angles, including close-ups of damage.
  • Capture the overall scene: road layout, skid marks, traffic signals, and weather conditions.
  • Exchange insurance and contact details with other drivers.
  • Note the responding police officer's name, badge number, and report number.
  • Avoid discussing fault or making statements that could be interpreted as admitting liability.

Insurance and Towing Coordination

Contact your insurance company as soon as possible. Many insurers have mobile apps or 24-hour claims lines. Report the accident and ask about your towing coverage: some policies include roadside assistance or have preferred towing providers. Your insurer can guide you on where to have the vehicle towed for repairs or inspection.

When arranging a tow, ask for a clear breakdown of charges: the base or hookup fee, cost per mile, any after-hours or scene fees, and the total estimated cost. Confirm the destination address and get the tow company's name and contact information. Do not authorize a tow until you understand and agree to the charges.

  • Call your insurer to report the accident and ask about towing coverage.
  • Ask if your policy has preferred towing providers or direct repair shops.
  • Get a written or verbal estimate of all towing charges before authorizing.
  • Confirm the destination: repair shop, storage yard, or your home address.
  • Record the tow company's name, phone number, and truck number.

Vehicle and Property Considerations

Before the vehicle is towed, remove all personal belongings if it is safe to do so. Check the glove compartment, trunk, and any storage areas for valuables, important documents, and medications. If the vehicle is not drivable, ask the tow operator if you can retrieve items at the destination yard.

If the accident involved public property (guardrails, signs) or private property (mailboxes, fences), note the damage and report it to the police and your insurer. Take photos of the property damage as well. Your insurance may cover property damage liability, but you should verify with your policy.

  • Remove personal items, documents, and valuables from the vehicle if safe.
  • Ask the tow operator about access to the vehicle at the storage yard.
  • Document any damage to public or private property with photos.
  • Report property damage to the police and your insurance company.
  • Keep all receipts and documentation related to towing and storage.

Take this with you

Evidence and scope checklist

  • Is the vehicle in a safe location away from traffic?
  • Have you called 911 for injuries, fire, or hazards?
  • Did you take photos of all vehicles, damage, and the scene?
  • Did you exchange insurance and contact information with other drivers?
  • Have you contacted your insurance company to report the accident?
  • Did you confirm towing coverage and any preferred providers?
  • Before towing, did you get a clear estimate of all charges?
  • Did you confirm the tow destination address?
  • Did you remove personal belongings from the vehicle?
  • Did you document any property damage and report it?
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Common questions

What homeowners ask next

Should I move my car after an accident?

If the vehicle is drivable and it is safe to do so, move it to the shoulder or a safe area to avoid blocking traffic. If there are injuries or the vehicle cannot be moved, leave it and wait for emergency responders.

Who pays for towing after an accident?

Towing costs may be covered by your insurance if you have roadside assistance or collision coverage. Check your policy or ask your insurer. You may need to pay upfront and seek reimbursement.

What if the other driver leaves the scene?

If you are involved in a hit-and-run, try to note the vehicle's make, model, color, and license plate. Call the police immediately and provide all details. Your uninsured motorist coverage may apply.

Evidence

Sources used for this guide

Research checked July 31, 2026

  • Move Over — It's the LawNational Highway Traffic Safety Administration

    Roadside responder safety; follow police and road-authority instructions.

Optional next step

Need an on-site professional?

Use the guide and worksheet first so you can describe the situation and compare the full scope. A referral is optional; you can also contact a licensed local provider directly.

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We have not enabled a provider route for this site. Use the checklist to contact and verify local providers yourself; urgent hazards should go to the appropriate emergency or public service.