Flip on your hazard lights right away. Get your car to the shoulder or a parking lot—don’t stay in the middle of the road if you can help it.

Before anything gets moved, snap photos of all vehicles, the road, any skid marks, and the surrounding area.

As vehicles continue to evolve—especially EV platforms like Rivian—proper repair depends on more than just skill.

You can also call your insurance’s roadside line or a motor club like AAA.

A quick search for a towing service near me usually brings up local operators with real-time info.

Jot down the time, place, weather, road conditions, and what happened right before the crash.

Ask for an estimate from a shop you feel good about, then book your appointment when it works for you, not just when your insurer says.

Jot down the time, location, and weather while it's still fresh in your mind.

Move your car to a safe spot if you can, snap photos of the damage, and swap info with the other driver.

Get every angle, the position of all vehicles, and any road conditions.

If you haven't done that, search for local companies instead of just calling the first name that pops up

You should move your vehicle out of traffic if it can be driven safely, according to the New York State Department of Motor Vehicles.

You want a tow truck that gets there fast, protects your car, and helps you figure out the next steps after a crash.

Call 911 for serious injuries, exchange information with the other driver, and document the crash for insurance and repair decisions.

You’ll need a replacement car, a clear answer about who pays, and a plan to protect your claim and safety.

Know why the glass broke, secure your car, and decide when to call a shop or file a claim.

Those first few minutes after a crash set the facts insurers use later, so act with safety in mind and document everything clearly.

If your windshield cracked or shattered in a crash, you need a clear plan for repairs, insurance, and safety checks

Knowing what to do first saves time, protects your rights, and makes your insurance claim go smoother.

You need clear steps to stay safe, get a fair repair estimate, and protect your rights with insurance.