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What to do after a crash

Safety first: call 911 if anyone's hurt, move out of traffic if you safely can, then trade information, take photos and notes, and call your insurer.

Easy10 min to readFree

You'll need

  • Your proof-of-insurance card (paper or app)
  • Your phone

What to know

  1. Call 911 if anyone is hurt. If your car can be driven, move it out of traffic if you can do it safely (NAIC).
  2. Call the police, especially if there are injuries or it's a hit and run (NC Department of Insurance).
  3. Exchange names, addresses, phone numbers, plate numbers, license numbers and insurance information. Copy the insurer and policy number exactly as it appears on the other driver's card (NC Department of Insurance).
  4. Get witnesses' contact information, the officer's name and badge number, and where to get the accident report. Note the time, place, weather and road conditions, and take photos (NAIC).
  5. Call the number on your insurance card, or use your insurer's app, to file a claim as soon as you can (NAIC).
Watch out. Don't agree to "forget about it." Damage or injuries can show up later (NC Department of Insurance).

If it doesn't work

  • The other driver won't share information? Write down their plate number and call the police (NAIC).
  • You disagree with the insurer's offer? Ask for a written explanation. If you still disagree, contact your state insurance department's consumer services (NAIC).
  • Hit and run, or your car was stolen? Call the police promptly (NAIC).

Good to know

Claims can affect your premium

How often you file and what kinds of claims you file can affect your premium and renewal (NAIC).

You don't have to rush

The NAIC says don't feel rushed to accept a settlement you aren't comfortable with (NAIC).

Know your coverage first

Read what your policy covers before you need it (NAIC).

Sources

  1. National Association of Insurance Commissioners What you should know about filing an auto claim
  2. North Carolina Department of Insurance After an accident
  3. National Association of Insurance Commissioners Auto insurance

Lesson H5.6 · Last checked October 2, 2026 against the sources listed. See a mistake?