It can be difficult to think clearly about the things you need to do immediately following an accident. Even when you are not injured in the accident, you will probably be pretty shaken up by the incident. Your heart will be racing and adrenaline rushing uncontrollably. An accident checklist, however, helps get you focused on the important things to do immediately after an accident.

Checklist

You will need to compile a detailed documentation of the accident and circumstances surrounding the accident to ensure the claims process goes smoothly and quickly. Here is an accident checklist of things to do immediately following a motor vehicle collision.

Basic reporting

Gather and document as much basic information about the accident as possible for purposes of accident reporting. Jot down:

• The date of the accident
• The time the accident occurred
• Location of the accident
• Weather conditions at time of the accident
• Your driving speed immediately before accident

Other driver’s information

Get the other driver’s basic information. Ensure you have the driver’s:

• Name
• Phone number
• License number
• Car make, model, year of manufacture and colour

Also, ensure you have the other driver’s insurance details, including:

• The driver’s insurance company name
• Address of the insurance company
• Phone number of the insurance company
• Driver’s insurance policy number

Witnesses and passenger information

Next get contact details of witnesses and passengers present during the accident. Write down the witness’:

• Names
• Addresses
• Phone numbers
• Car license plate numbers

Police and accident response personnel information

When the police and accident response teams arrive, note their personal information. Write down the officers':

• Names
• Badge number
• Phone number

These details are especially helpful for obtaining accident reports from the officers later on.

Accident damage

After you have details of all the people involved in the accident, document the damage resulting from the accident.

• Take pictures of damage to the cars involved as well as skid marks and any debris on the accident scene.
• Write a detailed description of the damage to your car as well as the other car involved
• Draw a diagram of the accident

Doctor’s appointment

An important but sometimes overlooked item on an accident checklist is scheduling a doctor’s appointment. In most cases, there are injuries after road accidents. Often, however, people don’t realise they are injured right after the accident. Schedule an appointment with your doctor as soon as possible after an accident even if you feel okay. This will make sure you are indeed alright.