Accidents happen when you least expect them, but knowing what to do in the moments that follow can make all the difference.
Whether it's a minor fender bender or something more serious, the steps you take immediately after a car collision can impact your safety, insurance claim, and even your legal standing.
In this 2025 Emergency Guide, we’ll walk you through the critical actions to take after an accident to protect yourself and your vehicle.
And if you're driving an INFINITI like the QX50, QX60, or QX55, don’t forget—our INFINITI Certified Collision Center in Van Nuys is here to help with expert repairs when the time comes.
Visit us today or contact INFINITI of Van Nuys for any collision repair needs—you can trust us to get you back on the road safely and quickly!
How to Stay Calm and Focused in the Aftermath of a Collision
After a car collision, your first priority is to stay calm. It’s easy to panic, but doing so won’t help.
If you're driving your INFINITI QX50, or any other vehicle, remember that staying level-headed is key to handling the situation correctly.
The steps you take now can affect everything from your safety to your insurance claim.
Take a deep breath. It’s normal to feel shaken up, but try to think clearly. Check yourself, passengers, and others around you for injuries.
If anyone is hurt, call for help immediately. Even minor injuries can become serious if ignored. When you're clear-headed, you can think better and make smarter choices.
Next, assess the situation. If your INFINITI QX50 is still drivable and it’s safe, move it to the side of the road. This prevents further accidents from happening.
Turn on your hazard lights to alert other drivers. If you're unsure, stay in your vehicle with your seatbelt on until help arrives.
Don't worry about fixing anything yet. Focus on safety. You can always visit an INFINITI Certified Collision Center later for expert repairs.
The calm you keep now will guide the rest of your decisions. Stay focused, take it step by step, and you're already on your way to handling the situation properly.
Prioritize Safety: Protect Yourself and Others at the Scene
After a collision, your first task is to protect yourself and others. Safety should always come first.
If you’re in your INFINITI QX60, or any car, make sure you’re not in immediate danger. If possible, move your vehicle to the side of the road. This helps prevent other accidents from occurring.
If your QX60 is drivable, carefully pull over. Turn on your hazard lights to warn other drivers. If your car isn’t moving, stay inside.
Keep your seatbelt on and wait for help to arrive. If you’re on a busy road, it’s better to stay in your vehicle than risk walking around.
Once you’re in a safe spot, check if anyone else is hurt. Look at passengers in your car and those in the other vehicle.
If someone is injured, call 911 right away. Don’t try to move them unless they are in immediate danger.
If it’s safe, use warning triangles or flares. These items can be very helpful in low visibility conditions, especially at night.
Your safety is the top priority. When the scene is secure, you can focus on the next steps.
And if your INFINITI QX60 needs repairs, you can always visit an INFINITI Certified Collision Repair Center for top-notch service and care.
Call Emergency Services for Assistance
After a car collision, calling emergency services is crucial. Even if no one seems seriously hurt, it's best to call 911. Some injuries aren’t obvious right away.
Calling for help ensures that medical professionals are on their way to assess everyone’s condition.
If you’re in your INFINITI QX55, or another vehicle, don’t hesitate to dial 911. It’s important to report the crash, especially if there are injuries or significant damage.
Law enforcement will need to create a report, which can be vital for insurance claims.
When you call, be clear and calm. Tell them the location of the accident and if anyone needs medical help.
Provide details about the vehicles involved, including the make and model. If you’re in a busy area, give them landmarks to help responders find you quickly.
Once emergency services are on the way, stay put and wait for help. Don’t leave the scene until law enforcement or medical personnel arrive. They will guide you on what to do next.
If you need to repair your INFINITI QX55 after the accident, contact an INFINITI Certified Collision Center. They’ll ensure your vehicle is restored to its best condition, with the care it deserves.
Gather Information: The Essentials to Exchange
After a car collision, exchanging information is critical. It helps with insurance claims and legal matters.
Start by getting the name, phone number, and address of the other driver. Write down their driver’s license number and license plate number.
Next, ask for their insurance details. This includes the insurance company name and policy number.
If there are passengers in their vehicle, get their information too. This can be helpful if they are witnesses.
If there are any witnesses at the scene, ask for their contact information. Their testimony could be important later on.
Don’t admit fault at this point. Simply gather the facts. The determination of who is at fault will come later, after the insurance and law enforcement investigate.
Once you have all the necessary details, take photos. Use your phone to capture pictures of the vehicles, damage, and the accident scene. This can be crucial when filing an insurance claim.
If your INFINITI QX50 needs repairs, remember that an INFINITI collision repair shop is the best option for quality service. They’ll help restore your vehicle to its original condition with care and expertise.
Document the Scene: Why Photos Matter
Taking photos at the scene of the collision is one of the most important steps. Clear pictures can provide vital evidence for your insurance claim and legal matters.
Start by capturing the damage to all vehicles involved, including your INFINITI QX60. Be sure to get shots from different angles, showing both the front and back of the cars.
Next, take photos of the surrounding area. This includes traffic signs, road conditions, and any relevant landmarks. These images can help explain how the accident happened.
Don’t forget to document the weather conditions and visibility. Was it raining, foggy, or dark? These factors can play a role in how the collision occurred.
If there are any visible injuries, take photos of those as well. This can support any medical claims that arise from the accident.
The more details you capture, the better. When you're ready to repair your INFINITI QX60, having these photos will help the INFINITI collision center provide a more accurate estimate.
Remember, a picture is worth a thousand words, and these photos will help protect you throughout the claims process.
Report the Accident to Your Insurance Provider
Once you’ve gathered all the necessary details, it’s time to contact your insurance provider. Report the accident as soon as possible.
Most insurance companies allow you to file a claim via phone or their app. Be ready to provide all the information you’ve collected, including the other driver’s details and photos of the scene.
When reporting, explain the facts clearly. Stick to the information you’ve gathered and avoid speculating about fault. Your insurance company will handle that part.
Make sure to ask about the next steps in the process. Some policies may include a tow service to bring your INFINITI QX55 to a repair shop. If your car is too damaged to drive, this can be a great help.
In some cases, your INFINITI Certified Collision Repair provider may work directly with your insurance company. This can help speed up the repair process and ensure your vehicle gets the best care.
Remember, reporting quickly keeps things moving smoothly. With the right information and a solid repair plan, you’ll get back on the road in no time.
Seek Medical Evaluation: Even Minor Injuries Can Be Serious
After a collision, it’s important to seek medical attention, even if you feel fine. Some injuries may not be obvious at first.
Whiplash, bruises, or internal injuries can appear hours or days later. A quick check by a doctor can help prevent long-term issues.
If you’ve been in an accident, visit your doctor or an urgent care center as soon as possible. They will assess your health and document any injuries. This record can be valuable for insurance and legal purposes.
Even if you drive a QX50 or any other vehicle, it’s better to be safe than sorry. Don’t delay seeking medical care if you feel any pain or discomfort.
Remember, an INFINITI Certified Collision Center can restore your QX50 after an accident, but your health should always come first.
Take care of yourself before anything else!
Avoid Admitting Fault at the Scene
It’s important to avoid admitting fault at the scene of the accident. Even if you think you made a mistake, wait for the facts to come out.
The cause of the accident may not be clear right away. Law enforcement and insurance companies will investigate and determine who is responsible.
When you speak to the other driver, remain calm and polite. Share your contact and insurance details, but don’t speculate about what happened. It’s easy to feel guilty, but it’s crucial not to assume blame.
If your INFINITI QX60 is involved, don’t rush into any decisions about repairs until fault is determined. The INFINITI Certified Collision Repair Center will ensure your vehicle is restored to its best condition. But first, let the experts sort out the details of the accident.
By not admitting fault, you protect yourself legally. The truth will come out through the proper channels. Stay patient and let the process unfold.
Consult a Legal Professional: When You Need Extra Help
If there are disputes over fault or serious injuries, consider consulting a legal professional.
A lawyer can guide you through the process, especially if you’re facing legal challenges. They can protect your rights and ensure you get fair compensation.
If your INFINITI QX55 is severely damaged, or if the accident leads to serious injuries, a lawyer can help with insurance claims.
Legal experts can also assist if you feel the other party is being dishonest or uncooperative.
In complex cases, a legal professional can work with the INFINITI certified collision team to make sure your vehicle is properly repaired. They’ll help ensure the repair costs are covered and that your insurance claim is processed smoothly.
Remember, if things get complicated, don’t hesitate to reach out to an attorney. It’s better to have professional help when dealing with the aftermath of an accident.
Utilize an INFINITI Certified Collision Center for Repair
After a collision, it’s essential to choose a repair center that specializes in INFINITI collision repair.
An INFINITI Certified Collision Center has the expertise and tools needed to restore your vehicle to its original condition. They follow strict standards to ensure your car is repaired to the highest quality.
If you drive a QX50, trust the professionals who know the ins and outs of your vehicle.
Using an INFINITI-certified center means your car will be fixed with parts that meet the brand’s specifications. This ensures a perfect fit and maintains the integrity of your vehicle.
Choosing a certified center also helps protect your warranty. The repair process is handled with the utmost care, keeping your QX50 running as smoothly as the day you drove it off the lot.
When it’s time for repairs, don’t settle for less. Go with an INFINITI Certified Collision Center for quality you can trust.
Understand Your Options for INFINITI Collision Repair
After an accident, you may wonder what repair options are best for your INFINITI QX60.
One of the best choices is to visit an INFINITI collision center. These centers are specially trained to handle your vehicle’s needs, ensuring the repair process is done right.
When you choose an INFINITI Certified Collision Repair Center, you know your car will be repaired using original parts. This keeps your QX60 in top condition.
These centers are equipped with the latest technology and trained technicians to handle any damage, big or small.
If your QX60 needs extensive repairs, certified centers ensure the work is done to the highest standards. Your car’s value and performance are protected.
Before you choose a repair option, check with your insurance to see which centers are covered. The right choice ensures your car will run like new after the repairs.
Always choose quality and reliability when it comes to repairing your INFINITI. Your vehicle deserves the best!
Stay Prepared: Protect Yourself for the Future
Accidents can happen when you least expect it. That’s why it’s important to be prepared.
Keep important documents, like your insurance card and vehicle registration, in your INFINITI QX55 at all times. This will make the process smoother if something happens.
Consider getting an INFINITI Certified Collision Repair plan. This ensures you know where to go if your car is damaged.
Knowing you have a trusted repair center to turn to helps reduce stress in a stressful situation.
You should also regularly inspect your QX55 for any issues that could lead to accidents. Keeping your vehicle in good shape will help avoid unexpected problems.
Finally, keep emergency supplies in your car. A first-aid kit, flashlight, and some basic tools can make a big difference in the aftermath of an accident.
Being prepared means you’ll be ready if an accident occurs. Stay calm, stay safe, and know what to do. It could save you time and stress when you need it most.
FAQs: What Should You Do After A Car Collision?
What is the first thing I should do after a car collision?
The first thing you should do is ensure everyone’s safety. Check for injuries, and if possible, move to a safe location. Turn on your hazard lights and call emergency services if needed.
Should I call the police after a minor accident?
Yes, you should still call the police after a minor accident. A police report is vital for insurance claims and potential legal matters.
What information should I collect at the scene?
Collect the names, contact details, driver’s license numbers, and insurance information from all parties involved. You should also gather contact information from any witnesses.
How soon should I report the accident to my insurance company?
You should report the accident to your insurance company as soon as possible, ideally within 24 hours, to ensure a smoother claims process.
Visit INFINITI of Van Nuys for Expert Support and Vehicle Selection
When you've been involved in a car collision, it's important to have the right support and guidance.
At INFINITI of Van Nuys, we’re here to help with everything from collision repair to finding your next vehicle.
Whether you’re from Van Nuys, Northridge, Encino, or Tarzana, we invite you to explore our wide selection of vehicles, including the QX50, QX60, and QX55.
While you’re here, feel free to check out our other helpful resources. For instance, you can learn how to check the brake fluid in your INFINITI to keep your car in top condition.
If you're looking for tire information, find out what size tires your INFINITI needs for peak performance.
And if you're planning a getaway, we’ve got you covered with 10 romantic getaways near Van Nuys, California, perfect for a peaceful escape.
At INFINITI of Van Nuys, we’re committed to providing you with the information and services you need.
Visit us today to continue your journey, whether it’s for a repair or to explore our premium selection of vehicles.
