Start with safety
The first priority after any collision is the people involved. Check yourself and your passengers for injuries, then check on the other driver if it is safe to do so. Call 911 when anyone may be hurt, when a vehicle is blocking traffic, or when the crash involves significant damage. If you can move safely, turn on your hazard lights and move out of active traffic. Do not stand in a travel lane or approach a damaged vehicle that may be unstable. If a car cannot be moved, stay inside with your seat belt fastened unless remaining there creates a greater danger.
Contact the police and exchange information
A police report creates an official record of what happened and may be important when you report the loss to your insurer. Cooperate with the responding officer, provide accurate information, and avoid guessing about speed, fault, or details you did not see. Exchange names, phone numbers, driver’s license information, license plate numbers, insurance companies, and policy details with the other driver. If there are witnesses, ask for their names and contact information as well. Keep the conversation factual and respectful; avoid admitting fault or making promises about payment at the scene.
Document the scene
If conditions are safe, take photos and video before vehicles are moved. Capture the position of the vehicles, damage from multiple angles, road signs, lane markings, traffic signals, weather conditions, skid marks, debris, and any visible injuries. Photograph the other vehicle’s plate and insurance card only with permission. Write down the approximate time, location, direction of travel, and what you remember while the details are fresh. Save the police report number and keep tow receipts, storage invoices, and rental-car records in one place.
Important: Do not drive a vehicle that is leaking fluid, has a loose wheel, cannot steer properly, or has damaged lights. Ask law enforcement or a licensed tow operator about the safest next step.
Notify your insurance company
Report the accident to your insurance company as soon as practical, even if the damage looks minor. Give the facts, provide your photos and report information, and ask what documentation is needed to open the claim. Do not authorize unrelated repairs based only on a phone conversation. Your insurer may arrange an inspection or estimate, but you should still ask questions about your coverage, deductible, rental-car benefits, towing, and the repair process. Keep a record of claim numbers, adjuster names, dates, and important instructions.
Choose a repair shop you trust
You have the right to ask questions and select a collision repair shop that gives you confidence. Look for a facility with trained technicians, clear written estimates, modern diagnostic equipment, and experience working with insurance claims. A quality repair is about more than making the panels look smooth; safety systems, alignment, sensors, structural components, and factory procedures all matter. Before work begins, ask how supplements are handled, how paint will be matched, and how the shop will communicate updates. Proline Collision Center in Garwood can help you understand the next step and coordinate the repair process.
After the repair, review the vehicle with the shop, confirm that warning lights are off, collect your paperwork, and keep copies of the final invoice and warranty information. If you need help after an accident, call Proline Collision Center at (908) 299-6000 for a free estimate.