What to Do Immediately After a Car Accident | Charlotte NC
When you’ve just been in a car accident in Charlotte, stay calm, stay safe, and follow these immediate steps, starting with safety first and ending with calling your trusted team at Starnes Collision Center for expert repairs.
1. Prioritize Safety
Check yourself and passengers for injuries, it’s important to stay still if hurt.
Move to a safe spot, turn on hazard lights.
Remain inside if conditions (e.g., traffic, weather) are dangerous.
Call 911 right away if anyone is hurt or it’s a serious crash.
2. Secure the Scene & Check for Hazards
Shut off your engine to avoid fire risks.
Watch for leaking fluids, smoke, or instability.
If safe, check on others involved but don’t move anyone injured unless absolutely necessary.
3. Call the Police
Always report the crash—even if minor—to document it officially.
Keep to the facts; avoid guessing who’s at fault.
Ask how to get a copy of the police report afterward.
4. Document Everything
Snap photos of damage, license plates, surroundings, street signs.
Note time, date, location, weather, and road conditions.
Exchange info with the other driver(s): name, license, plate, insurance, and take witness info if offered.
5. Avoid Admitting Fault
Just share what you saw, not what you think caused it.
Be polite, stick to factual statements.
6. Call Your Insurer & Starnes Collision Center
Report incident as soon as possible.
Get clear on your coverage details and deductible.
Reach out to Starnes Collision Center in Charlotte for a fast, accurate estimate and reliable repairs.
7. Arrange Certified Repairs
Choose a shop in Charlotte that’s ASE or I-CAR certified for safe, quality service.
At Starnes Collision Center, certified techs will guide you through estimates, parts, timeline, and warranty protection.
Stay updated on repair progress. We provide an online timeline of your repair.
8. Take Care of Yourself
Even if you feel fine, schedule a checkup to catch hidden injuries like whiplash.
Allow space to recover both physically and emotionally.
Talk to friends, loved ones—or a counselor if needed.
FAQs
Q: Do I always have to report an accident to the police in North Carolina?
A: In NC, you must call law enforcement if there's injury, death, or property damage over $1,500.Q: What details should I photograph at an accident scene?
A: Document vehicle damage (all angles), license plates, driver info, street signs, skid marks, and road conditions.Q: How quickly should I contact a collision repair shop after a crash?
A: It’s best to call your insurer and Starnes Collision Center as soon as possible, usually within 24 hours to get your repair process started.
NEED COLLISION REPAIR YOU CAN TRUST?
Starnes Collision Center has over 55 years of trusted experience in major and minor repairs. Our certified techs follow manufacturer guidelines and use OEM parts to ensure your vehicle’s safety, performance, and a confident return to the road.
