Most of us have had the excellent fortune of not being in a car collision. It’s easy to forget what to do to protect ourselves due to the adrenalin rushing through our systems, when it does happen.

To remember all the things you must do to avoid messy insurance issues later, keep this post-collision checklist with your glove box:

First, make an effort to stay calm. Then focus on the body. You will need to provide information on bodily injuries to the insurance company.

In the event you or anybody else is seriously hurt, call 911.

Call your local police to file a report of the accident. Give them as much details as you possibly can from your perspective.

Note any injuries (use pen & paper, telephone call to voicemail, text or whatever’s handy). Check for headache, shoulder pain, knee pain, back pain etc.

Second, obtain the other driver’s information.

The driver’s license address, name and number. When possible to copy the information, check their license.

Write down the license plate numbers of all the cars working in the collision besides your own.

Jot down the make, model and color of all of the other cars involved.

Ensure that you get the driver’s insurance company name and the policy number.

Third, document the collision and seek medical treatment. Again, unless you have pen and paper, you can text, take pictures or call a trusted voicemail box.

Take pictures of your damage and injuries for the cars or property involved.

Take down witness’ information (usually name and phone number will do).

Write down what went down. The insurance companies will ask you lots of questions and you’ll want to be clear on what you’ll say and not leave anything out.

Seek prompt medical attention. You may think you are alright, but you may actually be hurt and not feel pain because of the adrenalin rush.

If you are hurt, show or tell the doctor the notes you made at the time of the accident.

Fourth, follow through with the appropriate parties.

Call your insurance company as soon as you get the chance and mention all of the notes you took at the time of the collision.

Call your lawyer for guidance and information on working with the insurance companies involved.

Collisions are unusual experiences, so it is easy to forget the simple steps we are able to take to protect ourselves. Take the time now to print this out and placed it in your glove box. If you get into a collision this checklist will assure you have everything that you need., although hopefully you will never need to use it.