What to Do After a Car Accident: A Step-by-Step Guide

Mar 1, 2025

What to Do After a Car Accident: A Step-by-Step Guide

What to Do After a Car Accident: A Step-by-Step Guide

Car accidents are stressful and often overwhelming experiences, but knowing what steps to take after an accident can make a significant difference in protecting your safety, rights, and financial interests. Whether it’s a minor fender bender or a more serious collision, following a clear plan will help you stay calm and ensure everything is handled properly.

At Boruske Brothers Collision Center, Anderson Collision Center, and Jerry Ernst Collision Center, we’ve been helping drivers in the Northern Kentucky and Greater Cincinnati areas get back on the road for decades. As trusted collision repair centers with a combined history of over 125 years, we’re here to guide you through the process. Here’s a step-by-step guide on what to do after a car accident.

Step 1: Ensure Your Safety and the Safety of Others

The first priority after an accident is ensuring everyone involved is safe.

  1. Check for Injuries: Assess yourself and others for injuries. If anyone is seriously injured, call 911 immediately.
  2. Move to a Safe Location: If vehicles are drivable and it’s safe to do so, move them to the side of the road or a safer area away from traffic.
  3. Turn on Hazard Lights: Use hazard lights to warn other drivers and avoid further accidents.

Step 2: Call the Authorities

In many cases, it’s necessary to contact the police after an accident, even if it’s minor.

  • File a Police Report: In Kentucky and Ohio, drivers are typically required to file a police report if there are injuries or significant vehicle damage. A police report provides an official record of the accident, which can be helpful for insurance claims.
  • Cooperate with Officers: Provide accurate information to police but avoid admitting fault or speculating about what caused the accident.

Step 3: Document the Scene

Proper documentation is key for insurance claims and any potential legal issues.

  1. Take Photos and Videos: Use your phone to capture images of:
    • Vehicle damage
    • The accident scene (including traffic signs, skid marks, etc.)
    • License plates of all involved vehicles
    • Any visible injuries
  2. Gather Witness Information: If there are witnesses, ask for their contact details. Their statements could be valuable later.
  3. Exchange Information: Share and collect the following information from the other driver(s):
    • Name and contact information
    • Insurance company and policy number
    • Driver’s license number
    • Vehicle make, model, and license plate number

Step 4: Notify Your Insurance Company

Contact your insurance company as soon as possible to report the accident.

  • Provide Accurate Information: Be honest and thorough when describing what happened. Share the police report number and any photos or videos you took.
  • Understand Your Coverage: Your insurance agent will explain your policy’s coverage, deductible, and next steps for filing a claim.

At Boruske Brothers Collision Center, Anderson Collision Center, and Jerry Ernst Collision Center, we work with all insurance providers to make the claims process as smooth as possible. Our teams can even handle the paperwork on your behalf.

Step 5: Seek Medical Attention

Even if you feel fine immediately after the accident, it’s important to see a doctor. Some injuries, such as whiplash or internal injuries, may not present symptoms right away.

  • Keep Medical Records: Document all treatments and expenses related to your injuries. These records may be necessary for insurance claims or legal actions.

Step 6: Choose a Trusted Collision Repair Shop

Once you’ve reported the accident and addressed any medical concerns, it’s time to repair your vehicle. Selecting the right collision repair center is critical to restoring your car’s safety and appearance.

  1. Why Choose Us?
    • Boruske Brothers Collision Center (Dayton, KY): Serving the Northern Kentucky/Greater Cincinnati area for 25 years, we specialize in full-service collision repair, automotive refinishing, and more. Conveniently located near major landmarks like Newport and Covington, we offer pickup, delivery, and towing services to make your life easier.
    • Anderson Collision Center (Anderson, OH): With over 50 years of experience, this family-owned business provides expert repair services, including dents, unibody repairs, and lease return repairs. Located near Anderson Towne Center, we’re proud to offer a lifetime warranty on all repairs.
    • Jerry Ernst Collision Center (Cincinnati, OH): Operating since 1972, we’ve been a trusted name in collision repair for over five decades. Conveniently located on Kellogg Avenue near Lunken Airport, we provide state-of-the-art repair services for all vehicle makes and models.
  2. Lifetime Warranty on Repairs: All three centers offer a lifetime warranty on repairs, giving you peace of mind.
  3. Certifications and Expertise: Our expert technicians are certified to handle all makes and models, including luxury vehicles like Tesla. We use the latest equipment to ensure your car is repaired to manufacturer standards.
  4. Customer Testimonials:
    • Tracy & Brad: “When we picked up our SUV, it was cleaned inside and out. You can tell they truly care about you.”
    • Jon: “They made you feel like family and not a customer. Thanks again, guys, you truly OUTSHINE the rest.”
    • Rupesh: “They did a phenomenal job on my Tesla! Very honest and respectable.”

Step 7: Use the EZ Estimate Tool

To save time, use the EZ Estimate Tool available on our websites to get a preliminary repair estimate. Simply upload photos of the damage, and our team will provide you with an accurate quote.

Step 8: Make Arrangements for Transportation

While your car is being repaired, you’ll need a temporary solution for transportation.

  • Rental Assistance: Our centers can help coordinate a rental car to keep you on the road.
  • Pickup and Delivery: We offer convenient pickup and delivery services for your vehicle, saving you time and hassle.

Step 9: Prevent Future Accidents

After the repairs are complete, take steps to avoid future accidents:

  • Drive Defensively: Stay alert and anticipate the actions of other drivers.
  • Maintain Your Vehicle: Regular maintenance, such as checking your brakes and tires, can help prevent accidents.
  • Be Weather-Wise: Adjust your driving habits for rain, snow, and icy conditions common in the Cincinnati area.

Why Choose Boruske Brothers, Anderson Collision, and Jerry Ernst?

When choosing a collision repair shop, experience, trust, and quality workmanship matter. As part of the Smith Family Collision Centers, Boruske Brothers, Anderson Collision, and Jerry Ernst share a commitment to excellence. Here’s what sets us apart:

  • Decades of Experience: Combined, we’ve served the Northern Kentucky and Greater Cincinnati area for over 125 years.
  • Family-Owned and Operated: We treat every customer like family.
  • Comprehensive Services: From dents to unibody repairs, automotive refinishing to glass replacement, we do it all.
  • Stress-Free Process: From handling insurance claims to providing towing services, we make the repair process simple.
  • Customer Satisfaction: Our glowing testimonials speak to the care and dedication we bring to every repair.

Final Thoughts

Car accidents are never easy, but following these steps will help you stay organized and minimize stress. Remember, choosing the right collision repair center is essential to getting your vehicle back on the road safely.

At Boruske Brothers Collision Center, Anderson Collision Center, and Jerry Ernst Collision Center, we’re here to guide you every step of the way. From providing expert repairs to handling insurance claims, we’re committed to making the process as smooth as possible. Contact us today or use our EZ Estimate Tool to get started. Let’s get you back on the road!