What to Do in the First 48 Hours After a Car Accident
Car accidents can happen in an instant, but the steps you take immediately afterward can make all the difference in your recovery and your legal case. In the first 48 hours, it’s essential to protect your safety, your health, and your rights. At The Goss Law Firm, we’ve helped countless Missourians through this stressful time. Here’s a step-by-step guide to what you should do right after a crash.
1. Pull Over to Safety. Your first priority is safety. Move your vehicle out of traffic and turn on your hazard lights. If you or anyone else is injured, call 911 right away. Staying calm and keeping the scene safe helps prevent further harm.
2. Exchange Information. Get the other driver’s name, contact details, driver’s license number, license plate, and insurance information. Be polite but brief, and never apologize or say anything that could be interpreted as an admission of fault.
3. Take Photos of the Wreck. Use your phone to take clear photos of the vehicles, the surrounding area, traffic signs, and any visible injuries. This visual evidence can help prove what happened later if there’s a dispute over who was at fault.
4. Don’t Admit Fault. Even if you think you may have contributed to the crash, don’t admit fault at the scene. Missouri uses a comparative fault system, meaning your words could affect your ability to recover compensation. Leave the fault determination to the police and insurance investigators.
5. Call the Police and Report the Accident. Always report the accident to law enforcement. A police report is a crucial piece of evidence that documents the crash, includes witness statements, and records any citations issued. If the police don’t come to the scene, you can file a report with the Missouri State Highway Patrol or your local police department within 30 days.
6. Talk to Witnesses and Gather Information. If anyone saw the accident happen, get their names and contact information. Witness statements can strengthen your case and help confirm details about what happened.
7. Seek Medical Attention. Even if you feel fine, see a doctor as soon as possible. Many serious injuries — like whiplash, concussions, or internal bleeding — may not appear right away. Prompt medical care protects both your health and your claim by linking your injuries directly to the accident.
8. Don’t Talk to Adjusters. Insurance adjusters may reach out quickly, often before you’ve had time to understand the full extent of your injuries. Remember, their goal is to save the insurance company money — not to help you. Politely decline to give a recorded statement until you’ve spoken with an attorney.
9. Organize Your Information. Keep all documents related to the crash in one place, including the police report, medical bills, photos, and correspondence from insurance companies. Staying organized makes it easier for your lawyer to build a strong case on your behalf.
10. Find Legal Help. Before accepting any settlement, talk to an experienced Missouri car accident attorney. At The Goss Law Firm, we can handle the insurance companies, gather evidence, and fight for the compensation you deserve so you can focus on healing.
Contact The Goss Law Firm Today
The first 48 hours after a car accident are critical. What you do during this time can have a lasting impact on your health, finances, and future. Don’t face the aftermath alone or try to navigate complex insurance and legal issues without support.
At The Goss Law Firm, we understand how overwhelming this situation can be. Our experienced Missouri car accident attorneys are here to protect your rights, handle the insurance companies, and fight for the compensation you deserve. From your first call to the final resolution of your case, we’ll stand by your side every step of the way, ensuring you have the guidance, care, and results you need to move forward.
Contact us today by submitting a form online or calling our office at (816) 888-5000 for a free legal consultation.
