The First 72 Hours After a Washington Crash
What you do in the hours and days after a crash can affect your health and your legal options. This checklist is a practical guide — not legal advice.
Print this out and keep it in your glove box, or save it to your phone. If you've already been in a crash, work through what you can from here.
PNW Injury Law — pnwilaw.com — 206.657.5PNW
This checklist is for general information only and is not legal advice.
Get safe and get medical care first
Move to safety if you can do so without making injuries worse. Call 911. Accept medical evaluation at the scene — and follow up with a doctor even if you feel okay. Some injuries, including concussions and soft-tissue damage, don't show up immediately.
Call the police and make a report
Request a police response and make sure a report is filed. Get the report number before you leave. If officers don't respond, file a report yourself at the nearest police department or online through the Washington State Patrol.
Document the scene
Take photos of all vehicles, their positions, the road, any skid marks, traffic signs, weather conditions, and your visible injuries. Take photos before vehicles are moved if it's safe to do so.
Get witness information
Ask any witnesses for their name and phone number. Witnesses often leave before anyone thinks to ask. A neutral witness can be important later.
Exchange information — but say little
Exchange insurance and contact information with the other driver. Do not apologize, admit fault, or discuss the details of what happened. Anything you say can be used against you.
Do not give a recorded statement to the other driver's insurer
The other driver's insurance company may call quickly and ask for a recorded statement. You are not required to give one. Politely decline and talk to a lawyer first. Your own insurer may require a statement under your policy — that's different.
Keep records and receipts
Save everything: medical bills, prescription receipts, repair estimates, rental car costs, and any other out-of-pocket expenses. Keep a folder — physical or digital — from day one.
Follow your treatment plan
Attend every medical appointment and follow your doctor's instructions. Gaps in treatment can be used to argue that your injuries weren't serious or that you didn't do your part to recover.
Don't post about the crash on social media
Insurance companies and defense lawyers search social media. Even an innocent photo or comment can be taken out of context. Say nothing about the crash, your injuries, or your activities online.
Write down what happened
While your memory is fresh, write a detailed account of the crash: where you were going, what you saw, what happened, and how you felt immediately after. Include the names of anyone you spoke with. Keep this private.
Call for a free case review
You don't have to figure this out alone. A free case review costs you nothing and creates no obligation. Frank can help you understand your options before you make any decisions.
Print this checklist and keep it in your vehicle.
Questions about your crash?
A free case review is confidential and creates no obligation. Frank will tell you honestly what he thinks about your situation.
A case review is free and creates no obligation.