Tools

• Get yourself and others out of traffic if it is safe to do so
• Switch on hazard lights
• Check everyone for injuries, including yourself
• Call 911 if anyone is hurt or the road is blocked
• Photograph vehicle positions before anything is moved
• Photograph damage to every vehicle, from several angles
• Photograph the wider scene: road, signage, signals, skid marks, debris
• Photograph weather, light and road surface conditions
• Exchange names, contact details, licence, registration and insurance
• Get contact details for every witness, not just their names
• Note the exact location, time, and direction each vehicle was travelling
• Note the responding officer name, agency and report number
• Avoid speculating about fault at the scene
• Seek medical attention, even if you feel able to carry on
• Report to police or CHP within 24 hours if anyone was injured
• Notify your own insurer promptly
• File DMV form SR-1 within 10 days if there was injury, death or over $1,000 damage
• Start a dated note of symptoms, missed work and things you cannot do
• Keep every bill, receipt and letter in one place
• Do not repair or dispose of the vehicle before it has been documented

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