- Check for injuries first. Before anything else — vehicle damage, exchanging information, photos — check yourself and passengers for injuries. Call 911 immediately if anyone is hurt, even if it seems minor. Some injuries, like whiplash or internal injuries, don’t show symptoms right away.
- Move to safety if you can. If the vehicles are drivable and it’s safe to do so, move to the shoulder or a nearby parking lot to get out of traffic. If a vehicle won’t move or someone is injured, leave everything in place and turn on hazard lights instead.
- Call the police. Even for a minor fender-bender, a police report is often required for insurance claims and protects you if the other driver’s story changes later. In Michigan, crashes involving injury, death, or significant property damage must be reported.
- Exchange information. Get the other driver’s name, phone number, insurance company and policy number, license plate, and driver’s license number. Take photos of their insurance card and license if they’re willing.
- Document the scene. Photograph vehicle damage from multiple angles, the overall scene, road conditions, skid marks, and any relevant traffic signs or signals. This matters far more than most people realize once an insurance claim gets underway.
- Avoid admitting fault at the scene. Stick to facts when talking to police and the other driver. Determining fault is the job of the police report and insurance adjusters, not a roadside conversation.
- Call your insurance company and arrange a tow. Report the accident to your insurer promptly, and call a tow truck if either vehicle isn’t drivable. See our guide on your rights after an accident tow for what to expect on who picks the truck.
What If You Weren’t at Fault?
Keep every receipt — tow, storage, rental car — since these are typically reimbursable through the at-fault driver’s insurance. Our towing fees guide covers what a typical bill includes so you know what to expect on the receipt.
If the Vehicle Can’t Be Driven
Don’t attempt to drive a vehicle with a damaged wheel, leaking fluids, or a warning light indicating structural or mechanical failure, even a short distance. See our guide on signs your car needs a tow for a fuller breakdown of when to stop driving.
Do I have to call the police for a minor fender-bender?
It’s strongly recommended even for minor accidents, since a police report protects both parties and is often required by insurance companies to process a claim.
What if the other driver doesn’t have insurance?
Document everything at the scene and report it to your own insurer — uninsured motorist coverage, if you have it, can apply in this situation.
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