- Home
- Accident Response Kit
Accident Response Kit
72-Hour Crash Playbook (U.S. Edition, 2026)
Important: This calculator provides estimates only. Actual settlement amounts may vary significantly based on the specific facts of your case, court jurisdiction, and other factors. Always consult with a qualified attorney for advice specific to your situation.
Disclaimer: Informational only not legal advice. No attorney-client relationship.
What to Do at the Scene (10-Minute Checklist)
Move to a safe spot, turn on hazards, place triangles if available.
Request police and EMS. Ask for the incident number.
Stick to facts. Avoid speculation or apologies.
Names, phones, license numbers, plates, VINs, insurer + policy #.
Photos of vehicles, injuries, road, skid marks, debris, surroundings, weather, traffic signs.
Capture names, phones, short recorded statements (permission first).
Save footage. Back up to cloud if possible.
Accept EMS evaluation. Delayed pain is common.
Photo Blueprint (10 Shots That Matter)
1. Full Scene
Wide angle view
2. Each Vehicle
All 4 corners
3. Damage Close-ups
Detailed shots
4. License & VIN
Plates and stickers
5. Airbag Deploy
Safety systems
6. Skids & Debris
Impact evidence
7. Road Signs
Traffic controls
8. Weather
Conditions
9. Speed Limits
Posted signs
10. Injuries
Visible harm
72-Hour Timeline
0-12
HRS
- Medical evaluation; don't self-diagnose
- Start pain & limitations diary
- Notify your insurer
12-48
HRS
- Order police report
- Create claim folder
- Back up photos to cloud
48-72
HRS
- Get repair estimates
- Medical follow-up
- Use Evidence Matrix
Claim Call Scripts (Keep It Short)
“Hello, I was involved in a crash on [date/time] at [location]. Police incident number is [#]. I'll provide basic facts and photos. I'm still evaluating injuries and treatment. Please send my claim number and next steps by email.”
“I can confirm basic details. I am not giving a recorded statement today. Please send your claim number and inspection process by email.”
Claim Evidence Matrix (Fast Organizer)
| Item | Where to Get It | Why It Matters |
|---|---|---|
| Police report | Police portal/records | Liability snapshot + officer notes |
| Medical records + bills | Provider portals | Injury proof + economic damages |
| Imaging (X-ray/MRI) | Radiology portal | Objective documentation |
| Wage proof | Employer/pay stubs | Lost income verification |
| Repair + photos | Body shop + your phone | Property damage valuation |
| Dashcam/CCTV | Your device / nearby businesses | Corroborates impact + fault |
| Witness info | Your notes | Confirms sequence + signals |
| Pain diary | Daily notes/app | Tracks recovery + limitations |
Quick Valuation Primer (Educational Only)
Medical + Wages + Property
Pain & Sufferings
Key Factors:
Economic losses
Medical bills + lost wages + property loss + future care
Non-economic
Pain, suffering, daily-life limitations (often a multiplier)
Comparative fault
Your payout may drop by your % of fault
Documentation wins
Organized, verified records improve offers
Try our free tools: Pain & Suffering Calculator, Settlement Estimator, Claim Timeline Estimator (no email required).
Red Flags That Reduce Offers
Medical & Costs Tracker
| Date | Provider/Facility | Purpose | Amount | Paid by | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Remember to keep: Rx receipts, mileage to appointments, medical equipment costs.
Medical & Costs Tracker
Get at least two estimates; keep parts lists
Photograph pre-existing damage areas separately
If total loss is declared, ask for valuation report and comparable vehicles list
Save all rental invoices and availability proof
Insurance Tactics to Expect
| Common Tactics | Counter Strategies |
|---|---|
| Early low offers tied to “soft-tissue” labels | Document everything with records and timelines |
| Broad medical authorizations requests | Itemize losses with supporting evidence |
| Delays pending additional records | Keep communications in writing |
| Blame-shifting or shared fault claims | Challenge valuations with comparable data |
When to Consult a Lawyer (Signals)
Serious injuries, surgery, or disability
Multiple vehicles or commercial trucks
Disputed fault or conflicting reports
Hit-and-run or uninsured motorist issues
Do I have to talk to the other insurer?
FAQ
Do I have to talk to the other insurer?
What if injuries appear later?
Will a settlement be taxed?
Wallet Card (Cut & Keep)
🚨 Crash Steps
- Safety + 911
- Facts only
- Photos + witnesses
- Police #
- Medical now
- Call your insurer
✂️ CUT HERE ✂️
- Final Notes
- Keep all communications in writing
- Back up everything to a secure drive or cloud
- Update your diary daily for 30 days
- Use the free calculators for planning only; they don't predict outcomes
Bonus: "First Offer Audit" (1-Minute Checklist)
Audit Your First Offer
- Does the offer list each medical bill and date?
- Are future care/rehab costs included?
- Is lost wage proof reflected?
- Did they apply comparative fault? How?
- Are photos/dashcam acknowledged?
- Is there a release attached? What does it waive?
