While waiting for emergency services, gather information if you're able. Exchange contact and insurance information with the other driver. Take photos of the vehicles, road conditions, and any visible injuries. Get contact information from witnesses.
Immediate Steps at the Accident Scene
Your first priority is safety. If possible, move to a safe location away from traffic. Check yourself and passengers for injuries. Call 911 immediately – head-on collisions often cause serious injuries that may not be immediately apparent.
- ✓Move to safety if possible
- ✓Call 911 for police and ambulance
- ✓Don't admit fault or apologize
- ✓Exchange information with other driver
- ✓Take photos/videos of the scene
- ✓Get witness contact information
- ✓Note road conditions and weather
After Leaving the Scene
Seek medical attention immediately, even if you feel okay. Many head-on collision injuries (concussion, internal bleeding, whiplash) have delayed symptoms. A medical evaluation documents your injuries for your legal claim.
Report the accident to your insurance company, but be cautious about giving detailed recorded statements. Do not speak with the other driver's insurance without consulting an attorney. Contact a head-on collision lawyer to discuss your case.
- ✓Get medical evaluation immediately
- ✓Follow all medical advice
- ✓Report to your insurance company
- ✓Do not speak to other driver's insurer
- ✓Keep all accident-related documents
- ✓Journal your symptoms and recovery
- ✓Contact an attorney for free consultation
Frequently Asked Questions
Should I go to the ER after a head-on collision?▼
Yes. Head-on collisions cause severe injuries that may not be immediately apparent. Always get checked at an ER or urgent care. This also documents your injuries for your legal claim.
What if the other driver wants to settle without insurance?▼
Never agree to "keep insurance out of it." You may have injuries that don't appear for days. Always file a police report and go through proper insurance channels.
How long do I have to see a doctor after a head-on collision?▼
See a doctor immediately – ideally the same day. Delays in treatment can harm your health and your legal claim. Insurance companies use delayed treatment to argue your injuries weren't serious.
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