Stay Calm

• The first thing to remember after an auto accident is to stay calm. You are not going to help the situation by screaming at the other person or crying hysterically; you might only make the situation worse by doing so. When you keep your composure, you also make more logical and rational decisions during the ordeal.
  
  

Look for Injuries

• Once the accident is over and it is safe to get out of your car, look for other people involved in the accident who may be injured. If you think you might be injured, stay in your vehicle until the emergency professionals arrive.
  
  

Call the Authorities

• You should never discuss fault or any type of agreement following an auto accident. Instead, call the authorities right away. The police typically come out and make a report that all parties involved in the accident can use for insurance or legal purposes. This is essential, even for minor accidents, so other parties cannot claim more damages in the future and blame it on you. Also, if it looks like someone might be injured, mention that to the dispatcher when you call the authorities so they can send medical professionals along with the police.
  
  

Take Pictures

• Some drivers carry a disposable or cheap camera in their glove compartment in case they get into an accident. Taking pictures of the scene and the damage can help the claims adjuster determine how much payout to offer. Photos also help in case there is any dispute concerning damage to your vehicle or other vehicles involved in the accident.
  
  

Exchange Information

• While waiting for the police, exchange information with everybody involved in the accident. This is one of the most important things to remember after an auto accident. Write down their name, address, phone number, insurance company and vehicle identification number. It also helps to write down their license plate number and a description of their car. The more information you have, the more chance you have of tracking down the other drivers if they are giving you false information. Also, try to get contact information from witnesses in case any disputes arise about the incident in the future.
  
  

Call Your Insurance Agent

• If you have a cell phone with you, call your insurance agent as soon as possible. Calling your agent while the police are still there is a good idea, because an officer can explain what happened better than you can since they are not upset at the time. The sooner you get the claims process started, the sooner you can get your car fixed.