Begin with safety and care
Move out of immediate danger when it is safe, call emergency services when needed, and seek medical attention appropriate to your symptoms. Documentation should never come before safety.
Describe symptoms accurately to medical professionals and retain the instructions you receive. Do not delay urgent care simply to collect evidence.
Capture the scene in context
Photograph vehicle positions, damage, plates, traffic controls, skid marks, debris, lighting, weather, and the wider roadway. A few wide images often explain more than close-ups alone.
Identify nearby businesses or homes that may have cameras. Video can be overwritten quickly, so record the location even if you cannot obtain footage yourself.
Record people and reports
Exchange required information, collect witness names and contact details, and note the responding agency and report number. Avoid arguments or speculation about fault.
Write a private factual chronology while events are fresh. Include the time, route, direction of travel, and what you saw and heard.
Keep an organized loss file
Save bills, receipts, work notes, wage information, transportation costs, repair estimates, and insurance communications. A simple dated folder can reduce missing records later.
Keep original digital files and avoid public posts about the collision or recovery. Context can be lost when posts are copied or interpreted by others.
Related resources
Visit the resource center or review the personal injury FAQ.