In July of this year, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) released new projections for traffic fatalities in 2025, estimating a decrease in people killed in crashes in the first three months of 2025.
Despite NHTSA data showing an increase in vehicle miles traveled in the first quarter of 2025, it was projected that traffic fatalities declined by about 6.3% in the first quarter. This is the 12th consecutive quarterly decline in fatalities, with this estimated quarterly fatality rate the lowest in six years, according to a report.
But despite the decrease, crashes still happen, with even the most careful driver suddenly encountering bad luck on the road. So what should drivers do when the inevitable happens? The following 10 steps will help drivers get through the immediate aftermath of a crash while helping cover their companies’ administrative and legal concerns.
1. STOP!
When involved in a crash, however slight, do not leave the scene until speaking with the other driver, the police, or both.
2. Stay Calm
Remain as calm as possible, avoid any inclination to react in anger, particularly when encountering another driver behaving irrationally.
3. Keep Safety First
When involved in a minor accident with no serious injuries, move the vehicles and occupants safely to the side of the road, out of the way of traffic. If a vehicle cannot be moved and no injuries have occurred, drivers and passengers should remain in the vehicle with seat belts fastened until help arrives. Turn on hazard lights and if safe to do so, place cones, flares, or warning triangles.
4. Call for Medical Assistance
Call for emergency medical help if anyone involved in the crash is bleeding, feels lightheaded, or is suffering any physical injury. Always err on the side of caution and call for help. Unless someone at the scene is specifically trained in emergency medical procedures, wait until help arrives before attempting to move a person or perform emergency aid.
5. Contact the Police
Calling the police from the crash site is the best action. If the driver cannot contact local law enforcement, he or she should instruct someone else to do so. Police officers can address traffic infractions and take notes for the incident record.
6. Do Not Admit Fault
Do not discuss specific details of the accident with anyone except the police. Be polite, but don’t admit fault to the other driver or the police, even if the driver’s actions led to the crash.
7. Contact Your Employer
Call the company fleet manager, the accident management company representative, or, if applicable, the insurance company as soon as possible. If your employer’s fleet policy mandates, file a state vehicle accident report. A police report often helps insurance companies speed up the claims process.
8. Photograph and Document the Accident
Carry a disposable camera in the car to document the damage to all vehicles involved (these can be more dependable than a cell phone which may run out of power). Include photos that reveal the overall context of the crash — road conditions, intersection site, traffic signs or lights, etc.
Record in writing all pertinent information concerning the incident, including:
The Incident. The time and date, a description and exact location of the accident scene, and any recollection of your vehicle’s handling or mechanical functioning immediately prior to the crash.
Involved Parties. Names, addresses, telephone numbers, vehicle and driver’s license numbers, and insurance carriers.
Witnesses. Names, addresses, and contact information.
Police Officers. Names, badge numbers, where to obtain a copy of the police report, and issuance of any citations.'
Place in the vehicle glove compartment copies of such important documents a medical alerts detailing personal allergy or health conditions that may require special attention if you are seriously injured.
9. Be Prepared for an Accident
Place in the vehicle glove compartment copies of such important documents as:
Insurance company ID card.
Valid vehicle registration.
Medical alerts detailing personal allergy or health conditions that may require special attention if you are seriously injured.
Keep an emergency kit in your vehicle. At a minimum, this kit should include:
Road flares or warning triangles.
Brightly colored cloth to tie to the driver-side door.
Disposable camera.
Flashlight with fully charged batteries.
First aid kit.
Basic tool kit.
Duct tape.
Pad of paper and pen.
10. If Someone Needs Help in an Accident
If the driver encounters an accident scene and wishes to offer immediate help, pull the vehicle off the road ahead of the crash site. Do not park in back of the accident; your vehicle will be vulnerable to traffic and could block the view of emergency or police vehicles as they arrive at the scene.
Determine first if anyone has sustained injuries and, if needed, immediately call for medical assistance.
Test Your Knowledge: True or False?
1. You should leave the scene of an accident immediately if it seems minor.
False. You must stay at the scene and speak with the other driver or the police.
2. Remaining calm after an accident helps you handle the situation more effectively.
True. Staying calm prevents escalation and improves decision-making.
3. If involved in a minor accident, it’s best to leave your vehicle in the middle of traffic to avoid disrupting evidence.
False. Move the vehicle and occupants safely to the side of the road if it’s safe to do so.
4. If someone at the accident scene is bleeding, you should always call for medical assistance.
True. Err on the side of caution and call for emergency medical help.
5. It’s not necessary to call the police after an accident if no one is injured.
False. Always call the police to document the incident, regardless of injuries.
6. You should avoid admitting fault after an accident, even if you believe you caused it.
True. Never admit fault; let the investigation determine liability.
7. After an accident, you should contact your employer or fleet manager as soon as possible.
True. Prompt reporting helps with documentation and insurance claims.
8. You should use a disposable camera instead of your phone to photograph the accident scene.
True. Disposable cameras can be more reliable in emergencies when phone batteries may fail.
9. It’s unnecessary to carry important documents like insurance and registration in your vehicle.
False. Always keep valid insurance, registration, and emergency documents in your car.
10. When helping at an accident scene, you should park ahead of the crash site, not behind it.
True. Parking ahead is safer and avoids blocking the view for emergency responders.
Editor's Note: This article was originally published in August 2023 and reviewed and updated for continued relevancy in August 2025.
