1. STOP VEHICLES
Safety should be your first concern. You should stop the car as soon as it is safely possible. Do not move anyone who is injured or appears hurt unless absolutely necessary. If possible, do not move vehicles as the location of vehicles will be important to reconstruct accident. If it is dangerous to leave the vehicles in their location, draw a sketch of vehicles location prior to moving vehicles.

2. DON'T TALK TOO MUCH
AT ACCIDENT SCENE
Do not engage in too much conversation at the accident scene. Remember - what you say at this time can hurt you later. Sometimes, it is our natural response in stressful situations to talk. Casual comments like "I am sorry" or "I shouldn't have been driving so fast" can be used against you in a lawsuit. It is best not to say too much.

3. GIVE CERTAIN INFORMATION
Although this appears to be contrary to Number 2, it really isn't. You should give the other driver your name, insurance information and driver's license number. Do not discuss the amount of insurance coverage which you have with the other driver or anyone else at the scene.

4. GET CERTAIN INFORMATION
You should make sure you receive the same information from the other driver. If the other driver is uncooperative or flees the scene, get the license plate number, make and model of the vehicle.

5. CALL THE POLICE
It is usually best to call the police to the scene to take statements and file a police report. The danger of agreeing with the other driver to handle this between yourselves is that the other driver will leave the scene and go the police station to file a report which may not be factually accurate and may cause problems for you at a later time.

6. IDENTIFY WITNESSES
You should take the name and phone numbers of any witnesses at the scene. Also, you should note the names of the police officers who arrive on the scene.

7. GO TO HOSPITAL
If you have any injuries or pain or are uncertain as to whether you are injured, ask to be taken to the hospital. Some injuries become worse if not treated immediately and it is always best to go to the emergency room and have your injuries evaluated if you are in doubt.

8. BE YOUR OWN INVESTIGATOR
In addition to taking the names of witnesses, you should draw a diagram, take photos and note any details, no matter how small, while at the scene or as soon as possible after leaving the scene. Often, people think they will remember details about the accident forever, however, it is unlikely that you will remember certain facts (i.e. if you heard tires squealing or a horn being sounded) months after the accident.

9. TALK TO YOUR OWN INSURANCE COMPANY - NOT THE OTHER PARTY'S
Call your insurance company and report the accident and determine if claim should be filed. Be careful not to speak with anyone but your own insurance agent. This can become especially complicated if the same company represents both drivers. If so, determine if the person with whom you are speaking is your insurance adjuster or the one representing the other party.

10. AVOID A QUICK SETTLEMENT
Often, injuries and damages suffered in a car accident are not quickly evident. Insurance adjusters may push you to settle a claim quickly before you have received complete medical treatment. Some people are anxious to receive some money from a claim and will quickly settle, even if that is not in their best interests.