The first few days after a car crash can be overwhelming — especially if you’re injured or shaken. Between the shock, confusion, and pressure from insurance companies, it’s easy to make mistakes that can hurt your recovery and your legal claim.
At Ron Meyers and Associates, we’ve helped hundreds of clients navigate this exact moment. If you’re wondering what to do after a vehicle crash in Washington, this first 72 hours checklist can help protect your health, your finances, and your case.
Here’s what to do — and what to avoid — in the immediate aftermath of a collision.
Step 1: Get Medical Attention — Even If You Feel Okay
After any car crash, your priority should be your health. Many serious injuries (like concussions, soft tissue damage, or internal bleeding) don’t show symptoms right away.
- Go to the ER or urgent care if needed
- Follow up with your doctor within 24–48 hours
- Keep all discharge paperwork, prescriptions, and treatment notes
Seeking prompt care creates a medical record that helps document your injuries — a key part of building a strong bodily injury claim in Washington.
Step 2: File a Police Report and Document the Scene
Washington law requires you to file a police report if there are injuries, fatalities, or significant property damage. If officers didn’t respond to the scene, you can file online within four days.
You should also:
- Take photos of all vehicles, damage, debris, and road signs
- Capture weather or lighting conditions
- Write down what happened while it’s still fresh
- Get contact info for witnesses and the other driver
This evidence can be crucial in proving fault — especially if your car is repaired or towed before a full investigation. If you’re wondering what evidence to collect before your car is repaired, this is it.
Step 3: Notify Your Insurance Company — Carefully
You need to alert your insurer promptly, but be careful what you say. Even a simple “I’m doing okay” can be twisted later to downplay your injuries.
When reporting the crash:
- Stick to basic facts (date, time, location)
- Do not speculate about fault
- Do not give a recorded statement without legal advice
- Decline to discuss medical issues in detail
If the other driver’s insurance contacts you, you don’t have to speak to them directly. Let your attorney handle it.
Step 4: Preserve Evidence and Keep Records
In the first 72 hours, collect and organize as much documentation as possible:
- Medical records and bills
- Wage loss information (missed work, sick leave, etc.)
- Car repair estimates or photos of damage
- Communications with insurance adjusters
Keeping an organized folder or digital record of everything will make the process easier if you choose to pursue a claim — and it will strengthen your position during Olympia claim negotiations.
Step 5: Watch for Signs of Delayed Injuries
You may feel “fine” immediately after the crash, only to wake up sore, dizzy, or in pain days later. This is common.
Symptoms to watch for include:
- Headaches, confusion, or memory loss
- Neck, shoulder, or back stiffness
- Numbness or tingling
- Trouble sleeping or concentrating
Document any new symptoms and follow up with your doctor. These injuries may develop into part of your claim if they impact your health or work long-term.
Step 6: Talk to a Personal Injury Attorney Before Settling
You may get a call from an insurance adjuster offering a quick settlement. It might sound appealing — especially if you’re out of work or overwhelmed — but it’s often a fraction of what your claim is worth.
Before you accept anything, speak to a lawyer. A quick offer may seem helpful, but it often comes with strings attached that prevent you from seeking more later.
At Ron Meyers and Associates, we offer free consultations to help you understand your options and your claim’s potential value. Whether your injuries are minor or life-changing, it’s worth having someone in your corner early on.
Your First 72 Hours Matter — Let Us Help You Make Them Count
If you’re unsure what to do after a car accident in WA, you’re not alone. Many injury victims in Olympia and beyond wait too long to get advice — and that can cost them.
Following the right steps in the first few days after a car accident can protect your health, your finances, and your legal rights. We’re here to help you through it.
Contact Ron Meyers and Associates for a free consultation.
FAQ: First 72 Hours After a Car Crash in Washington
What are the urgent steps after a collision in WA?
Seek medical attention, report the crash, document the scene, contact your insurer, and speak with a personal injury attorney before settling.
What evidence should I collect before my car is repaired?
Take photos of vehicle damage, airbag deployment, license plates, the crash scene, and any visible injuries. Save repair estimates and towing receipts.
Do I have to give a recorded statement to the other driver’s insurance?
No. You are not required to give a recorded statement — and doing so without legal advice can hurt your claim.
Can I file a claim even if I felt fine right after the crash?
Yes. Many injuries appear in the hours or days after a crash. As long as you seek treatment and document your symptoms, you can still file a valid injury claim.
