5 Things to Do Immediately After a Car Accident in Detroit

Car accidents happen in the blink of an eye. One moment, you’re driving to work or running errands in Detroit; the next, you’re dealing with the aftermath of a collision. The moments immediately following an accident can be overwhelming, but the steps you take in the first few minutes and hours can significantly affect your safety, your legal rights, and the outcome of any insurance claim or lawsuit.

Here’s a lawyer’s guide to the five critical actions to take immediately after a car accident in Detroit.

1. Ensure Safety First

The very first priority after any car accident is safety—yours, your passengers’, and other drivers’ safety.

• Move to a safe location: If the accident is minor and your vehicle is drivable, carefully move your car to the side of the road or a safe area to avoid blocking traffic.
• Turn on hazard lights: Alert other drivers to prevent further collisions.
• Check for injuries: Before worrying about paperwork or legal procedures, make sure no one is seriously hurt. Call 911 immediately if someone is injured.

Even if the accident seems minor, never underestimate the potential for hidden injuries. Whiplash, concussions, and internal injuries might not be immediately noticeable but can have serious long-term consequences.

2. Call Law Enforcement and Report the Accident

In Michigan, you are legally required to report certain accidents, particularly if there are injuries, fatalities, or property damage exceeding $1,000.

• Dial 911: Even if injuries appear minor, having a police report can protect your rights and simplify insurance claims.
• Provide accurate details: Give the responding officer a truthful account of what happened, but avoid speculating or admitting fault at the scene.

A police report serves as an official record and is often critical in proving liability during a legal dispute. Skipping this step can make it harder to hold the at-fault driver accountable or obtain fair compensation.

3. Gather Evidence Immediately

After an accident, evidence is often your strongest ally. The quicker you collect it, the more reliable it will be.

• Take photos and videos: Capture all vehicles involved, visible damages, license plates, road conditions, skid marks, traffic signs, and intersections. Multiple angles are best.
• Document the scene: Note the exact location, date, and time of the accident. Record weather conditions and visibility.
• Exchange information: Collect the names, phone numbers, addresses, insurance details, and driver’s license numbers of all involved parties.
• Identify witnesses: If anyone saw the accident, get their contact information. Their testimony can be invaluable if disputes arise.

Don’t rely solely on memory—photos, videos, and written records carry far more weight in legal proceedings and insurance claims.

4. Avoid Common Mistakes That Can Jeopardize Your Claim

Even a small misstep can compromise your ability to recover damages. As your legal counsel might advise:

• Do not admit fault: Statements like “I’m sorry” can be misconstrued as an admission of liability. Leave fault determination to law enforcement and insurance companies.
• Avoid posting on social media: Pictures, comments, or posts about the accident can be used against you in court.
• Seek medical attention promptly: Even if you feel fine, a doctor can document injuries that might not appear immediately. Delaying treatment can weaken your case.
• Do not settle quickly: Insurance companies may pressure you to accept a quick payout. Always consult a lawyer in Detroit before signing any agreement to ensure you receive fair compensation.

Being cautious and methodical protects your legal rights and strengthens your position if the accident results in a personal injury claim.

5. Contact a Detroit Car Accident Lawyer

Perhaps the most important step after a car accident is consulting with a qualified attorney who understands Michigan traffic and personal injury law.

A skilled Detroit car accident lawyer will:

• Assess your claim: Determine the value of property damage, medical expenses, lost wages, and potential pain and suffering.
• Handle insurance communications: Insurance companies are businesses—they aim to minimize payouts. Your lawyer will advocate on your behalf.
• Navigate legal procedures: From filing claims to representing you in court, a lawyer ensures deadlines and legal requirements are met.
• Maximize compensation: Whether through negotiation or litigation, an experienced attorney works to secure the full compensation you deserve.

In Michigan, laws governing car accidents can be complex, especially when it comes to comparative negligence rules and no-fault insurance. Consulting a lawyer immediately can make the difference between a fair settlement and leaving money on the table.