What To Write Down After Car Accident

Being involved in a car accident can be a stressful and overwhelming experience. However, documenting the details accurately is crucial for insurance claims and any potential legal proceedings. Here's a detailed guide on what to write down after a car accident:

Personal Information

  1. Your Information:

    • Full name

    • Contact details (phone number, address, email)

    • Driver's license number

  2. Other Driver's Information:

    • Full name

    • Contact details

    • Driver's license number

    • License plate number

    • Insurance company and policy number

Accident Details

  1. Date and Time:

    • Record the exact date and time of the accident.

  2. Location:

    • Note the exact location, including street names, intersections, landmarks, and GPS coordinates if possible.

  3. Weather and Road Conditions:

    • Describe the weather (e.g., clear, rainy, snowy).

    • Note the condition of the road (e.g., dry, wet, icy, under construction).

Vehicle Information

  1. Your Vehicle:

    • Make, model, and year

    • Vehicle Identification Number (VIN)

    • License plate number

    • Damage description

  2. Other Vehicles Involved:

    • Make, model, and year of each vehicle

    • License plate numbers

    • Visible damage

Witness Information

  1. Witnesses:

    • Names and contact details of any witnesses

    • Brief statements from witnesses about what they saw

Description of Accident

  1. Accident Narrative:

    • Write a detailed description of how the accident happened from your perspective.

    • Include the direction each vehicle was traveling, speed, and any relevant traffic signals or signs.

  2. Diagram of the Accident:

  • Sketch a simple diagram of the accident scene, showing the positions of the vehicles before, during, and after the collision.

Police Information

  1. Police Report:

  • Obtain the name and badge number of the responding police officer.

  • Note the police report number and how to obtain a copy.

Photos

  1. Photographs:

  • Take photos of the accident scene, vehicle damage, license plates, and any visible injuries.

  • Capture different angles and distances for a comprehensive view.

Medical Information

  1. Injuries:

  • Write down any injuries you or your passengers sustained.

  • Note any medical treatment received at the scene or shortly afterward.

Insurance Information

  1. Insurance Details:

  • Contact your insurance company and provide them with the collected information.

  • Note the claim number and any instructions given by your insurance provider.

Additional Notes

  1. Additional Observations:

  • Record any other relevant details or observations, such as the behavior of the other driver (e.g., appeared intoxicated) or issues with road signage.

Conclusion

Having a comprehensive and accurate record of the accident can greatly assist in dealing with insurance claims and any potential legal matters. Stay calm and methodical in collecting and documenting all the necessary information.