Move the car to safety. Turn on your flashers. Call the police. Notify your insurance company. There’s quite a list of things to do after a crash. OnStar can help simplify that list by automatically connecting you with an Advisor who can quickly contact 911 and provide emergency services* with your exact GPS location and the severity of any injuries. The Advisor can also easily connect you to a friend or family member. 
 
Here are a few more items you’ll want to consider. Some may even surprise you.

Shock can disguise serious injuries. Breathing problems, dizziness, numbness and injuries are common signs of shock. OnStar Advisors are certified in Emergency Medical Dispatch training and can provide medical assistance until help arrives, for you or for others injured in the crash. Remember, though, it’s important to avoid moving injured passengers unless they’re in potential danger. 

If someone is injured or there’s considerable damage to one or more cars, or there are other serious concerns, it’s important to stay at the scene. In some states, leaving could make you a hit-and-run driver and lead to criminal charges. 

“Ask your insurance company for their guidance, right from the scene,” says Lynne McChristian, spokesperson for the Insurance Information Institute (III). “They can walk you through what to do and help you assess the next move.” Your Advisor can connect you with your insurance provider if your information is on file or you have the phone number. 

To file an insurance claim, McChristian says you’ll need: 

• The other driver’s name, home address and phone number or email address 
• Both cars’ vehicle insurance information 
• Both cars’ vehicle make and model 
• Contact information for witnesses 
  
• The number of the police report 
• Receipts for medical or repair costs you incur 
• A photo or drawing of the location and direction of the cars, stoplights and stop signs 
• A photo of the other car’s license plate and any damage to vehicles 
• A photo of the other driver’s license 
  

Why take a photo of the driver’s license information? “Sometimes people purposely give you the wrong information,” explains McChristian. “It’s a bit of a red flag if they don’t let you look at their driver’s license.” Also be wary if the driver doesn’t want to call the police or suggests a friend to handle the towing or repairs. You’ll want the paper trail.

If there’s a fuel spill, which may not be visible, a cigarette could start a fire. 

If your car is not drivable after the crash, an OnStar Advisor can also contact a nearby towing company* for you. 

You may want to push your blue OnStar button and ask an Advisor to make sure your emergency contact, insurance and other key information is current.