A car accident can happen in an instant, and in the chaos that follows, most people have no idea what to do next. Your hands are shaking, you’re in shock, and decisions that could affect your health and your legal rights need to be made fast.
Here’s a clear, step-by-step guide on what essential actions you should take in the first 24 hours after a car accident:
1. Call the police
Always call the police, even if you think your injuries are minor. A police report creates an official, independent record of what happened, and that record can be vital evidence in a personal injury claim.
When the police arrive, give them an accurate account of events. Don’t speculate or admit fault, even casually. Phrases like “I’m sorry” or “I didn’t see you” can be used against you later.
Ask the officer to give you the vehicle collision report number. The police officer should give you a small card with all the details on it.
2. Gather evidence at the scene
If it is safe to do so, start documenting everything before anything is moved or cleaned up.
- Photograph the vehicles: all angles, close-ups of damage, tyre marks, debris
- Photograph the scene: road conditions, weather, traffic signs, intersections
- Photograph your injuries: even minor cuts or bruising
- Get the other driver’s details: name, address, phone number, driver’s licence, registration, and insurance information
- Take witness details: names and contact numbers of anyone who saw what happened
- This evidence can be the difference between a strong claim and a disputed one.
3. Do not admit fault
Do not apologise, accept blame, or discuss who was at fault with the other driver. Even well-intentioned statements can be taken out of context.
Fault determination is complex and involves factors you may not be aware of at the scene.
4. Seek medical attention, even if you feel fine
This is one of the most important steps, and one of the most commonly skipped.
Go to your GP, an emergency department, or an urgent care clinic on the same day as the accident, or as early as possible the next day. Tell them about the accident and describe every symptom, no matter how minor it seems, including headaches, neck stiffness, bruising, back pain, dizziness, or emotional distress.
Medical records created close to the time of the accident are powerful evidence in personal injury claims. Gaps in treatment can be used by insurers to argue that your injuries are less serious than you claim.
5. Keep records of everything
From the moment of the accident, start keeping a written record:
- A diary of your symptoms, pain levels, and how the injury is affecting your daily life;
- All medical appointments, treatments, and medications;
- Any time you’ve had to take off work;
- Keep receipts for expenses related to the accident – medication, transport to appointments, domestic help, etc.
These records support your claim and ensure you’re compensated for the full impact of your injuries.
6. Contact a personal injury lawyer before speaking to the other driver’s CTP insurer
It is best to speak to a lawyer before you lodge your claim. We can help you complete the claim form.
If you have already lodged your claim, remember that the CTP insurer is not on your side. Their job is to settle your claim for as little as possible.
Speaking with a personal injury lawyer early protects your rights and ensures you understand what your claimmay actually be worth.
The Bottom Line
The decisions you make in the first 24 hours after a car accident matter enormously, both for your health and for your legal claim. Stay calm, document everything, seek medical attention, and speak to a lawyer before dealing with insurers.
If you’ve been injured in a car accident, we’re here to help. Contact our team today for a free, no-obligation consultation. We’ll explain your rights, assess your claim, and guide you through every step of the process.
Quick Checklist: What to Do in the First 24 Hours After a Car Accident
- Call the police and obtain the vehicle collision report number.
- Photograph the vehicles, accident scene and your injuries.
- Collect the other driver’s details and witness contact information.
- Do not admit fault or apologise for the accident.
- Seek medical attention as soon as possible, even if you feel fine.
- Keep records of your symptoms, medical treatment, time off work and accident-related expenses.
- Speak with a personal injury lawyer before discussing your claim with the other driver’s CTP insurer.
