What to Do After a Car Accident in Maryland: A Step-by-Step Checklist

The minutes right after a car accident are chaotic — adrenaline is up, you're checking on everyone involved, and it's hard to think clearly. This checklist is built so you (or a passenger) can follow it step by step, even in the moment.

1. Check for injuries and call 911

Your safety comes first. Call 911 for any injury, no matter how minor it seems — some injuries (especially whiplash and concussions) don't show symptoms right away. A police report also becomes one of the most important pieces of evidence in your claim.

2. Move to safety, if possible

If the vehicles are drivable and it's safe to do so, move them out of the lane of traffic. If not, leave them where they are and use hazard lights, flares, or triangles to warn other drivers.

3. Document the scene before anything changes

• Photos of all vehicles, from multiple angles, including license plates
• Photos of the road, skid marks, traffic signals, and weather/lighting conditions
• Photos of any visible injuries
• The other driver's name, phone number, insurance company, and policy number
• The names and phone numbers of any witnesses

4. Get medical attention — even if you feel "fine"

Adrenaline masks pain. Get checked out the same day if possible. A documented, prompt medical visit is one of the strongest pieces of evidence connecting your injury to the crash — waiting days or weeks gives the insurance company room to argue your injury came from somewhere else.

5. Be careful what you say — to everyone

• To the other driver: don't apologize or speculate about fault; just exchange information.
• To police: stick to the facts of what happened.
• To the other driver's insurance company: you're not required to give a recorded statement, and it's usually better not to until you've talked to a lawyer.

6. Keep everything organized

Start a folder (physical or digital) with the police report, medical bills, photos, repair estimates, and any correspondence with insurance companies. Missing paperwork slows down — or weakens — a claim.

7. Talk to a lawyer before you accept any settlement offer

Insurance companies often move fast with an early settlement offer — usually before you know the full extent of your injuries or costs. Once you accept, you generally can't go back for more, even if it turns out you needed surgery or months of therapy. A quick, free consultation costs you nothing and tells you where you actually stand.

Frequently asked questions

Do I need to call the police for a minor accident in Maryland?
Yes, especially if there's any injury or significant property damage. A police report protects you if the other driver later changes their story.

How soon should I see a doctor after a car accident?
As soon as possible — ideally the same day. Delayed treatment gives insurers an argument that your injury wasn't caused by the crash.

Should I give a recorded statement to the other driver's insurance company?
Not without talking to a lawyer first. You're generally not obligated to, and early statements are often used against injured people later.

What if the insurance company offers me money right away?
Don't accept before speaking with an attorney. Early offers are often far less than what a claim is actually worth, and accepting one usually closes the door on getting more later.

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*This article is general information about what to do after a Maryland car accident, not legal advice, and does not create an attorney-client relationship. If you were injured, speak with an attorney promptly.*