Accident Checklist
What to Do After a Car Accident
Stay calm. Follow these steps to protect yourself, your passengers, and your right to a proper repair.
The First Minutes Matter Most
The moments after a car accident are stressful and disorienting. Knowing what to do ahead of time can make a significant difference — for your safety, your insurance claim, and the quality of your vehicle's repair. Print this page, save it to your phone, or just read through it now so you're prepared.
And when you're ready to get your vehicle repaired, Collision Masters of Lexington is here to guide you through every step.
What to do
Your Post-Accident Checklist
Check for Injuries
Before anything else, check yourself and your passengers for injuries. If anyone is hurt — even slightly — call 911 immediately. Do not move injured persons unless there is immediate danger.
Move to Safety
If the vehicles are drivable and it is safe to do so, move them out of traffic to the shoulder or a nearby parking lot. Turn on your hazard lights to warn other drivers.
Call the Police
In Kentucky, you are required to report accidents involving injury, death, or property damage over $500. Even for minor accidents, a police report creates an official record that protects you during the claims process.
Document Everything
Take photos of all vehicles, the damage, license plates, road conditions, traffic signs, and the surrounding area. The more documentation you have, the stronger your claim.
Exchange Information
Get the other driver's full name, phone number, insurance company, policy number, driver's license number, and license plate. Share the same information with them.
Get Witness Information
If anyone witnessed the accident, ask for their name and contact information. Independent witnesses can be valuable if fault is disputed.
Notify Your Insurance Company
Report the accident to your insurer as soon as possible. Stick to the facts — describe what happened without admitting fault or speculating about injuries. Your insurer will open a claim and assign an adjuster.
Choose Your Repair Shop
You have the legal right to choose where your vehicle is repaired — regardless of what your insurance company says. Bring it to Collision Masters of Lexington and we'll handle the rest, including working directly with your insurer.
Common mistakes to avoid
What NOT to Do
Don't admit fault
Even saying 'I'm sorry' can be used against you. Stick to factual descriptions of what happened and let the insurance companies and police determine fault.
Don't leave the scene
Leaving the scene of an accident — even a minor one — can result in criminal charges in Kentucky. Stay until police arrive or both parties have exchanged information.
Don't skip the doctor
Some injuries, like whiplash or internal trauma, don't show symptoms immediately. See a doctor after any accident, even if you feel fine. This also protects your injury claim.
Don't let the insurer choose your shop
Insurance companies may try to direct you to a preferred shop that prioritizes their cost savings. You have the right to choose your own repair facility — and we'll advocate for the repairs your vehicle actually needs.
We've got you covered
Collision Masters Is Here When You Need Us
From your first call after an accident through the moment you drive away in your restored vehicle, our team is with you every step of the way. We handle the insurance, the paperwork, and the repairs — so you can focus on getting back to normal.
Ready to Get Your Vehicle Repaired?
Bring your vehicle to Collision Masters of Lexington. We'll handle the insurance, the paperwork, and the repairs — so you can focus on getting back to normal.