Quick Reference Guide
Post-Accident Checklist
A step-by-step guide on what to do immediately after an accident to protect your health, safety, and legal rights.
Disclaimer: This checklist provides general information about steps to take after Oregon accidents, is not legal advice, and does not create an attorney-client relationship. Discuss your specific circumstances with a licensed Oregon attorney before relying on these recommendations.
Immediate Actions After an Accident
At the Accident Scene: First 15 Minutes
- Check for injuries and ensure safety
Check yourself and others for injuries. If it's safe, move to the shoulder or a safe location. Turn on hazard lights.
- Call 911
Contact emergency services if anyone is hurt, vehicles block traffic, or the scene is unsafe. For non- emergencies, use the local non-emergency line if a police report is appropriate. Oregon law separately requires you to file an Oregon Traffic Accident and Insurance Report with the DMV within 72 hours when there is injury or death, property damage to any one person of $2,500 or more, or a vehicle that must be towed from the scene.
- Exchange information
Get the other driver's name, contact information, license plate number, driver's license number, and insurance details.
- Document the scene
Take photos of all vehicles involved (including license plates), damage, accident location, skid marks, traffic signs/signals, and any visible injuries.
- Gather witness information
If there are witnesses, collect their names and contact information.
Within 24 Hours
- Seek medical attention
See a doctor even if you feel fine. Some injuries may not be immediately apparent, and documentation of your medical examination will be important for your claim.
- Notify your insurance company
Report the accident to your insurance company, providing only basic facts about what happened. Avoid admitting fault or making detailed statements about injuries.
- Contact an attorney
Before giving statements to any insurance adjuster, consult with a personal injury attorney to understand your rights and options.
- Start a case file
Create a folder (physical or digital) to store all accident-related documents, including the police report number, photos, medical records, and correspondence.
Within the First Week
- Obtain the police report
Contact the police department to get a copy of the accident report. Review it for accuracy and note any discrepancies.
- Follow up with medical providers
Attend all follow-up appointments and follow your doctor's treatment plan. Keep a journal of symptoms, limitations, and recovery progress.
- Arrange for vehicle repairs
Get repair estimates for your vehicle and arrange for repairs through your insurance or the at-fault driver's insurance. Consider a diminished value claim if appropriate.
- Document lost wages
If you've missed work, gather documentation of lost wages, including statements from your employer and pay stubs.
What NOT to Do After an Accident
- Do NOT leave the scene
Leaving the scene of an accident is illegal and can result in serious legal consequences, especially if there are injuries.
- Do NOT admit fault
Avoid saying "I'm sorry" or admitting fault at the scene or to insurance adjusters. Determining fault is complex and should be left to professionals.
- Do NOT give recorded statements
Don't provide recorded statements to insurance adjusters without consulting an attorney first.
- Do NOT accept quick settlement offers
Early settlement offers from insurance companies are often far less than what your claim is worth, especially before the full extent of your injuries is known.
- Do NOT post on social media
Avoid discussing the accident, your injuries, or your activities on social media. Insurance companies often monitor these platforms to find evidence to use against your claim.
Important Resources
Additional Accident Resources
These resources can provide further assistance after an accident
Oregon DMV Accident Reporting
Information on how to file an Oregon Traffic Accident and Insurance Report with the DMV.
Medical Documentation Checklist
Essential checklist for documenting medical treatment after an auto accident injury.
Insurance Claims Checklist
Step-by-step checklist for navigating the insurance claims process after an accident.
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