Getting into an accident is scary business. The impact alarms you and it may send you into panic mode. If you are in an accident that you caused, then the stress you feel at the scene is even more overwhelming. You may forget what you need to do to get assistance. Fortunately, that’s not your day today, but it’s important to know what steps you should take whenever you are in an at-fault accident. 

Call Emergency Services 
 
Most accidents will require a professional to assist with medical attention or documenting the accident. The sooner emergency services arrive on the scene, the better. If you can make a phone call, immediately dial 911 so that everyone can receive medical care as soon as possible. By calling 911 immediately, you may save someone’s life.  

Make Sure Everyone is Safe 
 
After calling for medical assistance, it's important that you are in a safe place. Safety should always be your top priority. If you can move around, find a place that takes you away from oncoming traffic and out of immediate danger. If your passengers or others involved in an accident aren’t safe, then you should help them get to safety, without compromising their well-being. 

Call Your Insurance Agent 
 
Calling your independent insurance agent as soon as possible is another priority. You want to provide your insurance provider with all the details about the accident, so calling on the scene makes perfect sense since recalling the incident may be a challenge later. During this phone call, give your agent information about your policy, the accident and witnesses’ contact information. 

Talk to Police Officers on the Scene 
 
Police officers will arrive on the scene with emergency services. They are there to ensure everyone gets the proper medical care they need and to remove any debris from the road. They also have the responsibility of determining who was at-fault in the accident. If you feel that you were at fault, you don’t have to declare that to the officer. You should wait for the officer to review the scene. During the process, stick to the facts when recounting the story. 

Over the course of the next few days or weeks, you will be working with your insurance provider to determine the extent of your liability. Of course, what you are financially responsible for will depend on the type of auto insurance coverage you have.