First, check yourself and your passengers. If the car is in traffic, turn on hazards and, if you can drive it, move to a safe shoulder or parking lot. If the vehicle cannot move, stay inside with your seat belt on until help arrives. A deep breath helps clear the fog so you can think straight.
Call 911 And Report The Crash
Dial 911 for injuries, fire, or blocked lanes. Even for a minor fender bender, call the non-emergency line to create a report. The officer’s notes help later when insurance starts asking pointed questions. Share facts, not guesses. If you are unsure about something, say so.
Check On Others And Exchange Information
Ask if anyone needs medical help. Then exchange names, phone numbers, addresses, license numbers, plate numbers, and insurance details. Snap photos of driver’s licenses and insurance cards so you do not have to copy long strings of numbers by hand in the rain or snow.
Document The Scene Like A Pro
Use your phone camera for wide shots and close-ups. Photograph vehicle damage, skid marks, road signs, weather, and any debris. Take a quick video walking around the scene while you narrate what you see. Look for cameras on nearby buildings. Ask witnesses for short voice memos with their contact info.
Talk To The Police Carefully
Be polite and direct. Describe what you did and what you saw. Avoid blaming yourself or the other driver. Do not guess about speed or distances. Ask how to get the report number. That small scrap of paper can save hours later.
See A Doctor Even If You Feel “Fine”
Adrenaline hides pain. A clinic visit the same day links your symptoms to the crash and helps you heal. Follow the treatment plan and keep every receipt. If you rest when the doctor says rest, your body and your claim both benefit.
Notify Your Insurance Promptly
Call your insurer within a day or two. Give the basics: time, place, vehicles, and injuries. Decline a recorded statement until you have talked to a lawyer. Adjusters are trained to minimize payouts. Short answers and written follow-ups keep the record clean.
Keep A Simple Paper Trail
Start a folder with the police report number, medical bills, pharmacy receipts, towing and rental costs, and repair estimates. Write a short diary of pain levels and how injuries affect work, chores, and sleep. These notes turn daily hassles into clear evidence.
Mind Social Media
Skip the post. A smiling photo at a barbecue can be twisted to say you are not hurt. Set accounts to private and ask friends to hold off on tagging you.
Know Montana’s Fault Rules
Montana uses comparative negligence. If you are more than 50 percent at fault, you cannot recover damages. Even a small share of fault can reduce your compensation. Facts matter, so stick to the steps above. For background, see Montana driving laws and traffic crash statistics.
Consider Legal Help Early
A local Missoula car accident attorney can handle calls, gather records, and push the claim forward while you focus on healing. If the other driver’s insurer contacts you, let them know you will respond after you have spoken with counsel.
