After a car accident: Helpful tips and mobile support

Although no two auto accidents are alike, there are preparation and post-accident steps to consider — like downloading your insurance company's mobile app and having a copy of your insurance card inside the car. Be prepared by taking the following steps to help you know what to do in a car accident.

Ways to help be prepared

Try to be ready at all times, as accidents are unexpected. Remember ABP: Always Be Prepared.

• Check to see if your insurance company has a mobile app. Apps like the State Farm® mobile app allow you to notify your insurance company after a crash to help start the claims process.
• Download the mobile app and register your account. The State Farm mobile app also enables you to have an accessible digital copy of your insurance card as well as agent contact information.
• Place a copy of your insurance card and registration in your vehicle. If you don’t have digital copies, the paper documents can show proof for legal driving and may be used to exchange information with others involved in the accident.
• Be ready to take pictures of the accident site and any damage. Know how to use your mobile phone's camera to help document any post-accident damage.

Consider using the State Farm mobile app

By having the app on your phone, you will be able to easily view your insurance policies as well as:

• Access your ID cards
• Get roadside assistance (if applicable to your policy)
• File and manage your claims
• Upload photos and documents to help expedite a claim
• Connect with your agent

What to do after a car accident

If anyone is hurt or there is significant damage, immediately call 911 for help. Depending on the severity of the accident, the police may or may not come out to make a report. If the accident is minor, you may be asked to file a police report on your own. Even if an accident happens on private property, contact the police to report the incident.

Get out of the way, if you can

• Move your vehicle to a safe spot. If the vehicle is drivable, move it to the shoulder or otherwise out of the way of traffic.
• Turn the vehicle off and turn on your hazard lights. Switch the hazards on and set up emergency cones or emergency flares, if you have them.
• Call or use the mobile app to contact Roadside Assistance for towing help. Roadside service from State Farm is available 24 hours a day.

Record all the details

• Exchange contact and insurance information with anyone else involved in the accident. Collect the names, driver's license numbers, license plate numbers and insurance information of all drivers involved in the accident. Also confirm the name of the car owner. This information can be helpful once liability is established.
• If there were witnesses, ask for their contact information. Witness statements can help provide crucial information about the incident.
• Take notes about what you remember of the accident and take photos; upload photos if you have the mobile app. (You'll find reminders of what photos to take and how many images are needed in the app.) This includes images of surroundings, traffic signs, skid marks, cars involved and more. The photographs should be clear and detailed so those working your claim can clearly see the accident and site.
• Obtain a copy of the driver exchange report. This report will include information such as the case number, vehicle owner(s) and insurance information of the parties involved to provide to their insurer.
• Call or use the mobile app to alert your insurance company you've been in an accident.

Unattended vehicle or property 

If your car accident involves an unattended vehicle or property, try to inform the owner. If you can’t locate the owner, you can attach a note to the car or property with your contact information.

Actions to refrain from after an accident

• Don't leave the scene
• Don't try to assign blame
• Don't sign anything from anyone other than the police

What happens after reporting a car accident

Since you’ve already notified your insurance company about the accident, the claims process has already begun. If you have questions about repairs, costs or medical bills, your agent or claims representative can help provide assistance.

Symptoms and injuries to watch for after an accident

Injuries and pain can vary after an auto accident such as headaches, neck or back pain, muscle tension, anxiety and dizziness — just to name a few.

Determine if you need to seek medical attention. Contact your claims representative if you begin experiencing injuries that may be related to the accident as there may be coverage available for medical treatment depending on the coverages you carry.

Car accident repairs

You have the right to choose the shop you want for repairs. State Farm offers customers the Select Service Program option designed to offer vehicle owners additional levels of service including quality workmanship, guaranteed completion dates, limited lifetime warranties on completed repairs and pick-up and delivery service. The Select Service Program is intended to help provide vehicle owners with a positive experience with the repair process.

Status of your claim

To check the status of your claim, here are some options:

• Use the insurance app — you may need to log into the claims portion
• Contact your assigned claim representative
• Contact your agent

You may want to learn about what to do if you hit a deer or if you are involved in a hit and run accident. You might also consider contacting your State Farm agent for advice after an accident or with other questions you might have about your deductibles and coverages.