At the Scene
- Check for injuries and call 911 when anyone is hurt or vehicles are disabled
- Photograph vehicles, debris, skid marks, signs, weather, and injuries if safe to do so
- Exchange license, registration, and insurance information
- Collect witness names and phone numbers
- Get the police report number
- Avoid apologizing or guessing about fault
In the First Days
- See a doctor promptly — even if you feel “mostly fine”
- Report the crash to your own insurer
- Be cautious with the other driver’s recorded-statement requests
- Start a file: photos, bills, work absences, and a pain/activity journal
- Do not post about the crash or your activities on social media
Medical Bills and Insurance
- Ask whether your policy includes MedPay
- Keep explanation-of-benefits forms and itemized bills
- Do not sign a broad release before you understand your injuries
- Read more: Who pays medical bills after an Ohio car accident?
When to Call an Attorney
- Anyone needed more than brief first aid
- Fault is disputed or a commercial vehicle was involved
- An adjuster is pushing a quick injury settlement
- The other driver is uninsured or underinsured
Fuller narrative guide: What to Do After a Car Accident in Ohio. Practice pages: Car Accidents and Personal Injury.
Ready to talk through your crash? Contact the office.
General information only. Reading this does not create an attorney–client relationship.