The First 3 Things You Should Do After Any Kind of Accident

Accidents happen when you least expect them. Whether it’s a minor car collision, a fall at the store, or something more serious, the moments right after are crucial. You’re flooded with adrenaline, your mind is racing, and it’s hard to think clearly. But what you do next can impact your health, your finances, and even your legal options.

That’s why legal professionals like Fenimore Injury Law always stress the importance of taking the right steps as soon as possible—because even small actions can make a big difference down the line.

Let’s walk through the first three things you should always do after any kind of accident.

1. Prioritize Safety and Get Medical Attention

First and foremost: make sure you’re okay. That might sound obvious, but many people try to “tough it out” or worry more about the other person than themselves. It’s normal to feel shaken up or confused right after an accident—but don’t ignore what your body is telling you.

Here’s what to do:

• Check for injuries—yours and anyone else involved.
  
• If it’s a vehicle accident, move to a safe location if possible (out of traffic or danger).
  
• Call emergency services if needed, even if no one seems seriously hurt. It’s better to be cautious.
  

Even if you feel “fine,” go see a doctor as soon as you can. Some injuries—like whiplash, concussions, or soft tissue strains—don’t show symptoms right away. A medical record created within hours or days of the accident is also critical if you ever need to file a claim.

2. Document Everything You Can

Once you’re safe and have received medical help (or while you wait), start gathering evidence. The more details you capture, the better your chances of proving what happened if questions arise later.

Use your phone to:

• Take photos of the scene from multiple angles
  
• Capture any property damage, injuries, or environmental hazards
  
• Get snapshots of license plates, nearby signs, or conditions like poor lighting or slippery surfaces
  

Also, write down:

• Names and contact info of anyone involved (including witnesses)
  
• What happened, in your own words, while it’s fresh in your mind
  
• Any comments made by others at the scene that could be relevant
  

Even if the incident seems straightforward, documentation is what backs up your version of events—and can protect you if someone else changes their story later.

3. Report the Incident and Stay Off Social Media

No matter how minor the accident might seem, always report it to the proper authorities. That might mean calling the police, informing a store manager, or filing a workplace incident report.

Doing this ensures there’s an official record, which helps establish that the event actually occurred and when. If the situation leads to a claim or legal action, a lack of documentation can seriously hurt your credibility.

And here’s something many people overlook: avoid posting anything about the accident on social media. You might think you’re just venting or letting friends know what happened, but even an innocent comment or photo can be taken out of context. Insurance companies and attorneys often monitor posts—and something you share publicly can be used against you later.

Instead, keep your conversations private, stick to the facts, and only discuss details with trusted professionals or your attorney.

Why These First Steps Matter

Accidents can turn into long-term challenges if you don’t take the right steps upfront. Medical bills, time off work, disputes over who was at fault—it adds up fast. But by acting quickly, documenting thoroughly, and getting the right help, you put yourself in the strongest possible position.

These steps aren’t about being paranoid—they’re about being prepared. You don’t have to have all the answers right away, but knowing what to do in those first few minutes and hours can set you on a smoother path forward.

So the next time something unexpected happens, take a deep breath, follow these three steps, and remember: your safety and your future are worth protecting.