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What to do
after an accident

The first hour matters. Work through this list in order — it protects your safety first and your claim second.

If anyone is injured or the vehicles are blocking live traffic, call 911 before you do anything on this page.

Step by step

Your first hour,
in order

01
Make sure everyone is safe
Check yourself and your passengers first. If anyone is hurt, call 911. If the vehicles are drivable and blocking traffic, move them to the shoulder before you do anything else.
02
Call the police and get a report number
Even for a minor collision, a police report makes the claim dramatically easier. Write down the report number before the officer leaves.
03
Photograph everything
Wide shots showing both vehicles and the scene, then close-ups of every damaged area. Photograph the other driver’s licence plate, insurance card, and driver’s licence. More photos is always better.
04
Exchange information — but not blame
Get name, phone, address, insurer, and policy number. Do not admit fault at the scene, even casually. Let the adjusters determine liability from the evidence.
05
Call us before you commit to a shop
Your insurer may steer you toward a preferred shop. You are not required to use it. Call us and we will tell you honestly whether the repair makes financial sense before you file anything.
06
Do not accept a settlement before a teardown
The first estimate almost never captures hidden structural damage. Once the panels come off we submit a supplement, so hold off on signing anything final until the vehicle has actually been inspected.

Know your rights

None of this is legal advice — but it is what we explain to customers every week, and it routinely saves them money.

You choose the repair shop. Your insurer may suggest one, but the decision is legally yours in Minnesota.
You are entitled to a written estimate and an itemised parts list before work begins.
You can ask what kind of parts are being used — OEM, aftermarket or recycled — and have that in writing.
You do not have to accept the first settlement offer if hidden damage is found after teardown.
Choosing an independent shop does not void your coverage or increase your deductible.

Before you call us

If you have already opened a claim, have the number and your carrier name handy.

Year, make, model and — if you can reach it — the VIN from the door jamb.

Wide shots and close-ups of every damaged panel, taken in daylight if possible.

One phone call before you sign anything can change what your repair costs. It is free, and we will tell you straight.