Your step-by-step accident response checklist

Immediate (0–10 minutes)

• Move to safety if possibleGet off the roadway if you're able to move without worsening an injury.
• Call 911Request police and medical response for any injury, however minor it seems.
• Stay at the sceneLeaving an injury accident is a criminal offense in California.

At the scene

• Exchange informationName, license number, plate number, insurance company and policy number.
• Photograph the sceneVehicle positions, damage, skid marks, road conditions, and visible injuries.
• Get witness contact informationIndependent witnesses are valuable if fault is disputed later.
• Don't discard damaged gearKeep your helmet and riding gear as-is until photographed.

Within 24–72 hours

• Get a medical evaluationSome injuries don't present symptoms immediately.
• Confirm the police report numberYou'll need this for your insurance claim.
• Notify your insurance companyProvide basic facts; avoid detailed statements about fault initially.
• Start a claim folderBills, repair estimates, missed-work records, and correspondence.

Within 10 days

• File the SR-1 with the DMVRequired for accidents with injury, death, or significant property damage.