What to Do in the First 72 Hours After a Car Accident

“In the first 72 hours, your decisions can shape the outcome of your recovery and your case.”

Missouri saw over 38,000 car crashes with injuries in 2023, according to the Missouri State Highway Patrol. That’s more than 100 a day. If you’re here, you’ve likely been in a crash, or want to be ready in case it happens.

And you're right to ask what to do after a car accident, especially in those first 72 hours. They're overwhelming. But those first three days are critical.

What you do, or don’t do, can affect your health, your finances, and your ability to recover damages. 

First Things First: Ensure Safety and Call 911

Immediately after a car accident, your first priority should be safety. Begin by checking yourself and others for injuries. 

Even if injuries appear minor at first, it is important not to ignore them. Some conditions, such as internal injuries or concussions, may not show obvious symptoms right away.

If anyone is injured, call 911 without delay. Emergency responders will provide medical care at the scene and ensure that anyone who needs additional treatment is transported to a hospital. 

Requesting emergency assistance also ensures that a police officer will be sent to the scene to document the incident and file an official accident report. This report can serve as a key piece of evidence in your injury claim.

If the vehicles involved are blocking traffic but can be safely moved, pull them to the side of the road. Turn on your hazard lights to alert other drivers. 

If it is not safe to move your vehicle, such as when there is smoke, leaking fluid, or heavy traffic, stay inside the vehicle. Keep your seatbelt fastened and your hazard lights on while you wait for help to arrive.

Even in accidents that seem minor, involving the police and seeking medical attention are essential steps. These actions help protect your health and create the documentation needed to support any future insurance or legal claims. 

Never assume that a crash is too small to report or that your injuries are too minor to matter. Taking the proper steps early on can make a significant difference in your recovery and in your ability to pursue fair compensation.

What Not to Do After a Car Accident

Many mistakes happen in the first few hours after a crash. These errors can hurt your claim and delay your recovery. Here’s what you should avoid:

Don’t Admit Fault at the Scene

In the moments after a crash, emotions often run high. You may feel shocked, disoriented, or even guilty, especially if you believe you could have done something to prevent the accident. It is natural to want to apologize, even as a way of expressing concern or sympathy. However, saying “I’m sorry” at the scene can be misunderstood as an admission of fault.

Avoid making any statements about who caused the accident. Do not speculate, assign blame, or accept responsibility. Stick to the facts when speaking with the other driver, police officers, or witnesses. Share only what you are legally required to provide, such as your contact information, insurance details, and a brief, factual account of what happened.

The determination of fault should be left to the police, insurance adjusters, and, if needed, your attorney. Admitting fault at the scene, even unintentionally, can weaken your case later and give the insurance company a reason to deny or reduce your claim. It is always better to remain calm, provide accurate information, and avoid making any statements that could be interpreted as taking blame.

Don’t Give a Recorded Statement to the Other Driver’s Insurance Company

You are not required to speak with the other driver’s insurer. They may call you sounding helpful or friendly. Do not talk to them. Their job is to reduce what they owe, not to help you. Politely decline and refer them to your attorney.

If Your Insurance Company Asks for a Statement, Call Us First

While you may be required to give a recorded statement to your own insurer, contact an attorney at Harper, Evans, Hilbrenner & Netemeyer first. We can help facilitate the process, protect your rights, and guide you through every step.

Don’t Post About the Accident on Social Media

Even a photo of you smiling or doing something routine can be used against you. Avoid posting about your accident, injuries, or recovery online.

Don’t Accept a Quick Settlement

Fast settlement offers often come with strings attached. They’re designed to close your case quickly and cheaply. Don’t sign anything or accept payment without legal advice.

What You Should Do Instead

Here’s how to protect yourself after a crash:

• Seek Medical Care Immediately: Adrenaline can mask symptoms like whiplash, concussions, or internal injuries. Visit a doctor, urgent care, or emergency room within 24 hours. This not only helps your recovery, it also documents your injuries for your case.
• Follow Medical Instructions: Go to all follow-up appointments. Fill your prescriptions. If you stop care early, the insurance company may argue that you weren’t seriously hurt.
• Start a Recovery Journal: Document your pain, mobility issues, emotional state, and how your injuries affect your work and daily life. This journal becomes powerful evidence if you file a claim.

Contact an Attorney Right Away

Before giving statements. Before calling insurance. Before collecting paperwork. Call us. At Harper, Evans, Hilbrenner & Netemeyer, we can:

• Preserve evidence
• Obtain your police report (you don’t have to)
• Handle all communication with insurers
• Protect you from tactics designed to lower your payout

Key Mistakes to Avoid in the First Few Days

To protect your health and your case, avoid these common pitfalls:

• Delaying medical treatment
• Talking directly to the other driver’s insurer
• Posting on social media
• Failing to keep receipts, doctor’s notes, or wage loss documentation
• Accepting an early settlement offer

Missouri-Specific Facts You Should Know

Missouri uses a pure comparative fault system. Your compensation is reduced by your percentage of fault in the accident.

The average injury crash settlement in Missouri ranges from $15,000 to $100,000+, depending on injuries and recovery time.

As of 2023, nearly 16% of Missouri drivers are uninsured. That makes your uninsured/underinsured motorist (UM/UIM) coverage critically important.

You have 5 years from the date of the accident to file a personal injury lawsuit in Missouri. But the sooner you act, the better your case will be.

You Don’t Have to Navigate This Alone

The first 72 hours after a car crash are filled with uncertainty. But you don’t need to figure it all out by yourself. At Harper, Evans, Hilbrenner & Netemeyer, we help injured Missourians get the care and compensation they deserve.

If you were hurt in a crash, call us before you speak with the insurance company. We will review your case for free and help you avoid mistakes that could cost you later.

Let us handle the insurance. You focus on healing.