What to do after an accident
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Step 1 Stay safe.
- Move your vehicle off the road if it's safe to drive.
- Call 911 immediately to report any injuries.
- Don't leave the scene.
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Step 2 Talk to the other driver.
- Get their contact information, email address and license plate.
- Write down their vehicle's year, make and model.
- Write down their insurance company and policy number.
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Step 3 Get other information.
- Get contact info from any witnesses.
- If an accident report is filed by the police, find out how to get a copy.
- Take photos of any damage and the scene of the accident.
If you're at the scene of the accident with an undriveable car, call us at 800-531-USAA (8722), so we can help immediately with next steps.
How to handle other types of accidents
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Pedestrian or Bicyclist
- Call 911 immediately to report any injuries.
- Exercise caution for both yourself and all others when providing assistance.
- If they can communicate, get their name and contact information.
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Animals
- Move your vehicle off the road if it's safe to drive.
- Call your local police, and in case of an injury, call 911.
- Don't approach the animal.
See how the checklist can help.
This video can help you at the scene of the accident and when you file your claim.
Read video transcript of Video: Auto Accident ChecklistAuto Accident Checklist
Video Duration: 1 minute 7 seconds
Transcript Date: May 2, 2019
Auto Accident Checklist Elapsed Time zero seconds
When you're involved in an accident, it can be difficult to know what to do next. To make it easy for you, USAA has created this simple checklist.
First Steps Elapsed Time nine seconds
Whether it's with another vehicle, an animal or pedestrian, the first priority is safety. Call 911 if there are any injuries. It you're able, move to safety but don't leave the scene of the accident. If safe to do so, take pictures of the accident scene and all vehicle damages.
Information to Exchange Elapsed Time twenty eight seconds
If your accident involves another driver, you'll need to exchange the following information: name, driver's license number; insurance company and policy number; year, make, model and license plate of any vehicle involved. If anyone witnessed the accident, get their contact info as well as a police report number if the police arrive to the scene.
Reporting Your Claim Elapsed Time forty seven seconds
When you report your claim through the USAA Mobile App or usaa.com, you are able to schedule an inspection, arrange your repairs and if applicable, request a rental car. Click on this page to begin your claim.
