An unexpected car accident can leave you feeling a touch scattered. That’s why it is vital to brush abreast of post-accident procedures now, when you’re good and levelheaded. This 7-step guide can help make the moments after an accident less stressful — and therefore the claims process an entire lot smoother.

1. Move to a secure area (if you can)
If it’s safe to do so and you are not seriously injured, move your car out of further harm’s way, like the shoulder of the road. If moving your car just isn’t possible, turn on your hazards to warn other drivers that your vehicle isn’t going anywhere any time soon.

2. Stop your vehicle and get out
Make sure your car is not any longer moving, turn off the engine, shift into park, or set the emergency if you drive a manual. Stop and take your breath. Check to make sure it’s safe to get out of your car before opening the door. If you’ve got flares or similar road safety items, it may be time to use them.

3. Check on the other vehicle involved
Go meet the driver of the other vehicle, see how they are doing, and look at the damage. Call 911 immediately if anyone could be injured. Even a seemingly minor symptom like dizziness should be verified by a health care professional.

4. Call the police to the scene
Even in minor accidents, a police accident report can prove invaluable when handling your automobile insurance company and other drivers. Cooperate fully, but avoid admitting fault or blaming others while at the scene. Let the police objectively judge events and determine who, if anyone, is guilty within the crash.

5. Gather info
It is important to write down as much information as possible after the accident aftermath, including:

• Driver and passenger names
• License plate numbers
• Insurance info of the other driver(s)
• Makes and models of all vehicles involved
• Contact info for any eyewitnesses
• The exact location of the accident
• The name and badge number of any responding cops

6. Document the scene
If you’ve got a smartphone with a camera, snap some photos of the accident scene. They’ll be very useful during the insurance claim process.

7. File your claim
Call your insurance provider.

After step 7, just call us. We’ll help you to get your car repaired as quickly as possible.