PICTURE: PEXELS/ CAR ACCIDENT

Car accidents are scary – whether it’s a small fender bender or something more serious, your adrenaline spikes, and your mind races. But once you’ve ensured that everyone is safe and you’re out of immediate danger, there’s a whole layer of “admin” that kicks in. Knowing what to do in the moment can make the process smoother and protect you legally, financially, and emotionally.

Here’s a step-by-step guide for women navigating the administrative side of an accident:

Stay calm and prioritise safety first

Before paperwork and photos, your safety matters most. Switch on your hazards, move to a safe spot if possible, and take a deep breath. Being composed will help you handle the admin that follows with clarity.

Call the authorities

Even if it feels “minor,” report the accident. Having a police case number protects you if there are disputes later with the other driver or insurance. Ask for the officer’s name, badge number, and the case/incident number – they’ll be important for insurance claims.

Exchange information (Accurately and completely)

Make sure you collect (and provide) these essentials:

Full name and contact number of the other driver(s)
ID or driver’s license number
Vehicle registration number and make/model
Insurance company and policy number
Address of the driver and vehicle owner (if different)

Pro tip: Don’t only rely on verbal sharing—take clear photos of their license, license disc, and insurance card if they agree.

Document everything with photos

Use your phone to capture:

The overall scene of the accident
License plates of all vehicles involved
Visible damage to cars
Road signs, traffic lights, or road conditions relevant to the incident
Any injuries, if visible and safe to document

Think of it like evidence—photos speak volumes when stories differ later.

Don’t admit fault on the scene

It’s natural to want to apologise, especially if you’re shaken, but avoid statements like “It was my fault.” Leave the liability decision to the police and insurance companies.

Notify your insurance immediately

Call your insurance provider as soon as possible. They’ll guide you on towing services, panel beaters, or whether you need to complete additional forms. Make sure you have:

The accident report number
All the details you collected at the scene
Your policy number

Pro tip: Save your insurer’s emergency number in your phone beforehand – when you’re stressed, the last thing you want is to scramble for contact details.

Keep a file

Accidents involve paperwork. Create a digital or physical file for:
- Police report/case number
- Photos of the accident
- Insurance claim documents
- Medical receipts (if you needed treatment)
- Any correspondence with your insurance or the other party
This helps you stay organised and ensures nothing slips through the cracks.

Arrange medical check-ups

Even if you feel fine, shock can mask injuries. Schedule a doctor’s visit to document any issues (whiplash, bruising, back pain). Medical records are important for insurance or legal claims.

Reach out for support

Handling admin while shaken is tough. Don’t be afraid to ask a friend, sibling, or parent to help double-check forms, speak to insurance, or just sit with you while you make calls.

Being in a car accident is overwhelming, but taking control of the admin right away empowers you and protects your future self. Think of it as creating a safety net—your calm, careful actions now will save you time, stress, and money later.