Getting into a crash on icy I-94 near Bismarck or at a busy intersection in downtown Minot can leave you in shock and often unsure of what to do next. While it may be hard to think straight in those first few minutes, the more than 10,000 car accidents in North Dakota in 2022 have shown us that what you do immediately after a car accident matters.
Whether you’re in Grand Forks, Minot, or anywhere in between, knowing your next steps can protect your health, your rights, and your ability to get compensated. Here’s what you need to know after a crash in North Dakota, from our Minot and Grand Forks car accident attorneys.
1. Stop Immediately and Check for Injuries
Under North Dakota law, drivers must stop at the scene of any crash involving damage, injury, or death. Failing to stop can result in serious criminal penalties.
- Pull over as close to the crash scene as safely possible
- Turn on your hazard lights
- Check yourself, passengers, and others involved for injuries
- Call 911 if anyone is hurt or there is significant damage
You should not move injured individuals unless they are in immediate danger, such as from fire or traffic.
2. Move to a Safe Location, If You Can
If no one appears seriously injured and your car can still move, get it over to the shoulder or somewhere out of the way—staying in traffic just raises the risk of another collision. If you’ve got cones, triangles, or flares, set them out to alert other drivers. Stay off the road, out of harm’s way, and wait for emergency responders unless they tell you otherwise.
3. Call Law Enforcement to Report the Crash
North Dakota law requires you to report any crash causing injury, death, or property damage over $4,000. If you’re unsure about the value of the damage, it’s best to err on the side of caution and call.
- Cooperate with the responding officer and provide accurate details
- Request a copy of the police report for your records
- If law enforcement does not respond, you may be required to file your own accident report
Not all injuries or vehicle damage show up right away, so documenting early helps if complications arise later.
4. Exchange Information with Others Involved
While at the scene, exchange basic details with the other driver. You’ll need this information for your insurance claim and possible legal proceedings.
- Contact info, including names, addresses, and phone numbers of those involved
- License plate number and make/model of vehicles
- Driver’s license number and issuing state
- Insurance company name and policy number
Witnesses to the accident can be invaluable, so try to get their contact information as well.
5. Avoid Admitting Fault
We often utter the words “I’m sorry” out of politeness, conditioning, or shock, but admitting fault can be used against you later by insurance companies or in court.
- Do not admit blame to other drivers, officers, or insurance reps
- Avoid making guesses about what happened
- Stick to the facts when describing the crash
Let the professionals figure out the cause based on the evidence gathered.
6. Document the Scene Thoroughly
Phones make it easy to gather valuable crash evidence on the spot. Documenting the scene helps support your version of events.
- Take photos of all vehicles, damage, license plates, road signs, and traffic signals
- Capture weather conditions or visibility issues
- Write down the time, location, and details of how the crash happened
Keep any receipts from towing, vehicle repairs, or medical treatment related to the incident. Together, these records help establish damages in a legal or insurance claim.
7. Get a Medical Evaluation, Even If You Feel Fine
Some injuries, like concussions, whiplash, or internal trauma, may not show symptoms right away. We cannot stress how essential it is to get checked by a medical professional to make sure your injuries are diagnosed and treated early.
- Visit an emergency room, urgent care, or your primary doctor
- Keep all medical records and follow-up instructions
- Let your provider know you’ve been in a crash
A proper diagnosis now can protect your health and your right to future compensation.
8. Notify Your Insurance Company Promptly
Your insurance policy likely requires timely notice of any crash, even if you weren’t at fault. Delays may affect your coverage or claim.
- Call your insurance provider as soon as possible
- Be factual and stick to the basics of what happened
- Decline to give a recorded statement without legal advice
Before speaking in detail, consider contacting an attorney if you may have suffered injuries or if fault is unclear.
9. Get Your Accident Report
If law enforcement does not file a report and the crash involved injury, death, or over $4,000 in property damage, you are required to file one with the North Dakota Department of Transportation.
- You must submit this report within 10 days
- Keep a copy of your completed report for your records
You can purchase your report online here. This paperwork is often required by insurers and can affect your claim.
10. Contact a North Dakota Car Accident Attorney
Dealing with insurance adjusters, paperwork, and mounting bills can be overwhelming after a crash. An attorney can protect your rights and help you pursue the compensation you deserve.
- Legal counsel can handle communication with insurers
- Attorneys can preserve evidence and consult investigators
- You may be eligible for damages covering lost wages, pain, and medical bills
At Pringle & Herigstad, PC, we’ve spent over 100 years helping people across North Dakota recover after serious car accidents. We are your neighbors, and we are not afraid to fight for the justice you deserve.
Injured in a Crash in North Dakota? We’re Here to Help
Every crash tells a story, and the legal steps you take in the hours and days after matter. At Pringle & Herigstad, we offer free, no-obligation consultations for crash victims. Don’t leave your future to chance. Contact us today.