Car accidents happen in seconds, but what you do in the minutes after the impact can significantly affect your health, safety, and potential injury claim.
If you are involved in a crash in Massachusetts, follow these steps immediately after the collision.
1. Check Yourself and Others for Injuries
The first priority is safety and medical care.
After impact:
Take a moment to assess your own condition.
Check passengers in your vehicle.
If anyone appears injured, call 911 immediately.
Even if injuries seem minor, it is important to take them seriously. Many injuries — particularly concussions, neck injuries, and soft tissue damage — may not appear immediately.
2. Move to a Safe Location if Possible
If the vehicles are drivable and it is safe to do so, move them to the side of the road to prevent additional accidents.
Turn on your hazard lights and remain visible to other drivers.
If the vehicles cannot be moved, stay inside with your seatbelt fastened until help arrives unless it is unsafe to do so.
3. Call the Police
In Massachusetts, you should contact the police after most accidents, particularly if there are:
Injuries
Significant property damage
Disputes about fault
A police officer will document the scene and prepare a crash report, which can later become an important piece of evidence.
4. Exchange Information with the Other Driver
Massachusetts law requires drivers to exchange basic information.
Be sure to obtain:
Name
Address
Phone number
Driver’s license number
Insurance company and policy number
License plate number
Also take note of the make, model, and color of the other vehicle.
Avoid discussing fault or apologizing. Statements made at the scene can sometimes be misunderstood later.
5. Document the Scene
Your smartphone can become one of the most valuable tools after an accident.
Take photos of:
Vehicle damage
The position of the vehicles
Skid marks or debris
Traffic signals or stop signs
Weather and road conditions
Any visible injuries
If there are witnesses, ask for their names and contact information.
6. Seek Medical Attention
Even if you feel fine, it is wise to be evaluated by a medical professional.
Many accident injuries develop hours or days later, including:
Whiplash
Back injuries
Concussions
Soft tissue damage
Prompt medical documentation can also be important if you later pursue an injury claim.
7. Notify Your Insurance Company
Massachusetts is a no-fault insurance state, which means your own insurance policy may provide Personal Injury Protection (PIP) benefits regardless of who caused the crash.
You should notify your insurance company promptly, but be cautious when giving recorded statements before speaking with an attorney.
8. Call Attorney Scott Syat
Insurance companies often move quickly after an accident, and early decisions can affect the value of your claim.
If you have been injured, it is important to understand your rights before speaking extensively with insurance adjusters.
Attorney Scott M. Syat has been representing injury victims in Massachusetts for decades and can help you understand your legal options and protect your claim.
Injured in a Massachusetts Car Accident?
If you or a loved one has been injured in a car accident, you may be entitled to compensation for:
Medical bills
Lost wages
Pain and suffering
Loss of enjoyment of life
Loss of function
The Law Offices of Scott M. Syat, P.C. helps accident victims throughout Massachusetts.
📞 Call (617) 773-3500 for a free consultation.