Accident Response Checklist

A driver's first 30 minutes after an accident determine the fleet's legal and insurance exposure for years. This checklist covers the critical actions in order.

Immediate (0–5 minutes)

Safety first: check driver, others, secure scene, activate hazards/flares. Call 911. Do not move vehicles unless traffic hazard.

Documentation (5–20 minutes)

Photos: all vehicles, all sides, damage, road/skid marks, signage, license plates, insurance cards. Witness names and phone numbers. Never admit fault.

Notification (immediate)

Call dispatch, call insurance, call safety manager. Notification within 1 hour is a common insurance policy requirement.

Post-Accident Testing

DOT-mandated drug and alcohol testing within 8 hours (alcohol) and 32 hours (drugs) if fatality, injury, or towing occurred.