What should I do in the first 24 hours after a car accident?
IX
InjuryXperts Editorial Team
Attorney review: pending · Updated Oct 14, 2026
Attorney review: pending · Updated Oct 14, 2026
SHORT ANSWERIn the first 24 hours after a car accident, get safe, get a medical check even if you feel fine, and document what happened with photos and notes. Think carefully before signing anything or giving a recorded statement. Rules and deadlines vary by state, so it helps to understand your options early.
Illustration of a highway accident scene.
KEY FACTS
- Some injuries only show up hours or days later.
- An official police report helps.
- Keep every bill, receipt and record.
- Deadlines and fault rules vary by state.
ON THIS PAGEWhy a medical check mattersWhat to do firstWhat to avoidDeadlines by stateCommon questions
Why does a medical check matter?
Some injuries take hours or days to appear. A medical check creates a record and helps you understand where you stand, even if you feel fine right now.
What should I do first?
- Get safe, and call 911 if anyone is hurt.
- Take photos of the vehicles, the road and any injuries.
- Report it to the police and ask how to get a copy of the report.
- Save bills, receipts and records in one place.
What should I avoid?
- Guessing or admitting fault.
- Skipping the police report.
- Signing anything, or giving a recorded statement, before you understand your options.
- Posting about the accident on social media.
What are the filing deadlines by state?
| State | General time limit | Fault rule |
|---|---|---|
| Texas | 2 years | 51% bar |
| Georgia | 2 years | 50% bar |
| Arizona | 2 years | Pure comparative |
| Pennsylvania | 2 years | 51% bar |
| Alabama | 2 years | Contributory (strict) |
| South Carolina | 3 years | 51% bar |
Time limits and fault rules differ by state. See our car accident pages for Texas, Georgia, Arizona, Pennsylvania, Alabama and South Carolina.
Common questions
Do I have to call the police after a car accident?
An official report helps, and many places require one in certain situations. It’s worth asking how to get a copy.
Can I wait to see a doctor?
It’s safer not to. Some injuries show up later, and an early medical check creates a record.
Is it free to ask for a case review?
Yes. A case review through InjuryXperts is free, with no obligation.
Review status: written by the InjuryXperts editorial team. Attorney review is pending, and sources will be added before this guide is marked “Reviewed”. General information only, not legal advice.
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