Car accidents happen without warning, and the minutes and hours that follow are critical — both for your health and for any potential legal claim. Here's what Montana residents should do after a car accident, based on what we see make the biggest difference in case outcomes.
Step 1: Check for Injuries and Call 911
Your first priority is safety. Check yourself and your passengers for injuries. If anyone is hurt — or if you're unsure — call 911 immediately. Even if injuries seem minor, adrenaline can mask serious conditions like internal bleeding, concussions, or soft tissue damage that may not become apparent for hours or days.
A police report is also essential evidence. Officers document the scene, take witness statements, and may issue citations that establish fault. Without a police report, it becomes your word against the other driver's.
Step 2: Document the Scene
If you're physically able, document everything:
Take photos and video of vehicle damage, road conditions, traffic signals, skid marks, debris, and any visible injuries. Capture multiple angles and distances. Get the other driver's name, insurance information, driver's license number, and license plate. Note the make, model, and color of all vehicles involved. Collect contact information from witnesses. Write down your own account of what happened while it's fresh.
Step 3: Seek Medical Attention
Visit an emergency room or urgent care as soon as possible — ideally the same day. This creates a medical record linking your injuries to the accident. Delayed treatment is one of the most common reasons insurance companies deny or reduce claims. They'll argue that if you were really hurt, you would have sought treatment immediately.
Step 4: Notify Your Insurance Company
Report the accident to your own insurance company promptly. Stick to the basic facts — date, time, location, other parties involved. Do not speculate about fault or the severity of your injuries. Do not give a recorded statement without legal counsel.
Step 5: Don't Talk to the Other Driver's Insurance Company
The at-fault driver's insurance company will likely contact you quickly. Their adjuster may seem friendly and concerned, but their job is to minimize what the company pays. Politely decline to give a recorded statement and refer them to your attorney.
Step 6: Contact a Personal Injury Attorney
Montana's statute of limitations for personal injury claims is three years, but the earlier you involve an attorney, the better your outcome is likely to be. An attorney can preserve evidence, manage insurance communications, and begin building your case immediately.
Step 7: Follow Your Treatment Plan
Follow all medical recommendations. Attend every appointment. Complete prescribed therapy. Insurance companies look for gaps in treatment as evidence that your injuries aren't serious. Consistency in your medical care strengthens both your recovery and your claim.
If you've been in a car accident in the Flathead Valley, contact Cannon Breck for a free consultation. We'll review your situation and explain your options.
