Steps to Take After a Car Accident in Mohave County
A car accident can be disorienting and overwhelming—especially when injuries or property damage are involved. In Mohave County, understanding what steps to take after an accident can help protect your well-being and support any future insurance or legal claims.
Whether the crash occurred in Kingman, Lake Havasu City, or on a remote Arizona highway, here’s what to do in the moments, days, and weeks that follow.
- Check for Injuries and Call 911
Your first priority should be safety. Check yourself and others for injuries and call 911 immediately if anyone is hurt. Medical responders will assess the situation and provide care.
Even if the crash seems minor, calling the police ensures an official report is filed, which can be critical for insurance and documentation purposes. - Move to a Safe Location (If Possible)
If vehicles are drivable and it’s safe to do so, move them out of traffic to prevent further collisions. Use hazard lights or safety cones if available.
Remaining calm and courteous—even if emotions are high—can prevent the situation from escalating. - Exchange Information
Be sure to gather the following details from all involved drivers:
• Full name and contact info • Driver’s license and license plate number • Insurance provider and policy number • Make, model, and year of vehicles involved
Also, take down names and contact information of any passengers or witnesses.
- Document the Scene
Use your phone to photograph:
• Vehicle damage from multiple angles • Road conditions or hazards • Traffic signs or signals • Visible injuries (if appropriate)
Having detailed photos helps preserve evidence and can make a big difference when reporting to your insurance provider or filing a legal claim.
- File a Police Report
In Arizona, a police report is required if injuries, fatalities, or significant damage occur. Even if it’s not required, it’s wise to have an official record on file.
You can request a copy of the report later from the Arizona Department of Public Safety or local law enforcement agencies. - Notify Your Insurance Company
Report the accident to your insurance provider as soon as possible. Be honest and factual, but avoid admitting fault. Let the investigation determine liability.
If you’re unsure how to handle the conversation, consider speaking with an attorney first. - Seek Medical Attention
Not all injuries show up right away. Conditions like whiplash or internal injuries may take hours—or even days—to surface. It’s important to get a full medical evaluation even if you feel fine immediately after the crash.
Keep a record of all treatments, prescriptions, and diagnoses related to the accident. - Keep Detailed Records
Accident-related paperwork may include:
• Medical bills • Vehicle repair estimates • Work absence documentation • Communication with insurance companies
Keep all of this in a single, organized place. These records can be essential for insurance claims or legal action.
- Understand Your Legal Options
If you were injured in a crash due to someone else’s actions—whether distracted driving, speeding, or failure to yield—you may want to explore your legal options.
In Mohave County, you can learn more about your rights under Arizona law by visiting our Personal Injury page. Civil action may help you recover compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other losses.
- Speak With a Personal Injury Attorney (Optional)
Navigating insurance claims and legal questions can be complicated. Many individuals in Kingman, Lake Havasu City, and surrounding areas consult with an attorney to better understand their next steps and determine if legal representation would be helpful.
To connect with our team for more information, visit our Contact Us page. We’re here to answer questions and help you make informed decisions about your recovery.
