A collision on I‑84 near Boise or a fender‑bender on a side street in Twin Falls can upend your day—and your life—within seconds. Knowing exactly what to do in the first few minutes, hours, and days after a crash can protect your health, keep you on the right side of Idaho law, and strengthen any future injury claim you may need to file. Below is a step‑by‑step guide, grounded in Idaho statutes and best practices, to help you move forward with confidence.
1. Put Safety First and Call 911
The Idaho Transportation Department recommends you stop your vehicle in a safe place, turn on hazard lights, and check for injuries. If anyone might be hurt—even if symptoms seem minor—dial 911 immediately. Emergency responders will provide medical aid and create the first official record of the incident.
Why it matters: A 911 call time‑stamps the event and shows insurers (and, if necessary, a jury) that you treated the crash seriously from the outset.
2. Accept or Seek Prompt Medical Care
Even low‑speed impacts can cause concussions, whiplash, or internal injuries that don’t surface right away. Let paramedics evaluate you on scene, and follow up at an emergency room or urgent‑care clinic within 24 hours. Be candid about every ache and symptom.
Idaho insight: Medical records generated within the first day carry extra credibility under Idaho Rules of Evidence 803(4) (statements made for purposes of medical diagnosis or treatment). They also link your injuries directly to the crash, limiting the insurer’s ability to argue “something else” caused your pain.
3. Call Law Enforcement and Obtain the Police Report
Idaho Code § 49‑1305 requires parties to report most crashes involving injury, death, or property damage of $1,500 or more. When an officer arrives:
- Give factual answers—never speculate or guess.
- Request the report number and the officer’s business card.
- Ask how and when you can obtain the completed report (usually from the local police department or Idaho State Police within 7–10 days).
Tip: The crash report anchors the rest of your claim. Double‑check it later for accuracy, especially the spelling of names, insurance information, and the officer’s narrative.
4. Collect Scene Evidence Like a Journalist
Photos & Video
- Vehicle positions, damage, skid marks
- Traffic signals, signage, or construction cones
- Weather and lighting conditions
- Visible injuries (bruises, airbags deployed, blood)
Witness Details
- Names, phone numbers, and quick voice memos summarizing what each person saw.
Crash Details
- Date, time, exact location (GPS pin if possible).
Why it matters: Idaho follows a modified comparative negligence rule (I.C. § 6‑801). If you’re found more than 49 percent at fault, you recover nothing. Solid evidence can keep fault percentages in your favor.
5. Exchange Information—No More, No Less
Trade driver’s licenses, license plates, and insurance policies with the other motorist. Remain polite, but avoid statements like “I’m sorry” or “It was my fault.” These can be misconstrued as admissions of liability.
Best practice: Verify insurance details on the spot—snap a photo of the other driver’s policy card to prevent later “I’ll send it to you” delays.
6. Notify Your Insurance Company (Carefully)
Most auto policies require prompt notice. Call or use your insurer’s app within 24 hours, but stick to the basics:
- Date, time, and location
- Vehicles involved
- Injuries known so far
Decline to give a recorded statement until you feel prepared—or you’ve spoken with counsel.
7. Keep a Crash File and Expense Log
Create a folder (physical or digital) for:
- Medical bills, diagnostic images, and prescriptions
- Repair estimates or totals
- Car‑rental receipts, rideshare fares, and towing invoices
- Proof of lost wages (pay stubs, employer letters)
- A recovery journal documenting daily pain levels and limitations
These records help calculate economic and non‑economic damages down the line.
8. Understand Idaho’s Statute of Limitations
For most personal‑injury claims, Idaho Code § 5‑219 gives you two years from the date of the crash to file a lawsuit. Miss the deadline and your claim is almost always barred, no matter how strong the facts. Track this date the same way you’d track a court appearance—because it is one.
9. Common Post‑Accident Mistakes to Avoid
| Mistake | Consequence |
|---|---|
| Skipping the doctor | Insurer argues no injury or a pre‑existing condition |
| Posting accident photos on Instagram | Opposing counsel screens social media for contradictions |
| Signing an insurer’s medical‑release form | Unlimited access to your entire health history |
| Accepting a quick settlement | One‑time check may not cover future treatment or lost earnings |
10. When Professional Legal Help Makes Sense
You can handle small, clear‑cut property‑damage claims alone. But consider speaking to an attorney if:
- Injuries are moderate to severe (fractures, surgery, ongoing therapy)
- Fault is disputed or multi‑vehicle
- The at‑fault driver is uninsured or underinsured
- You receive a settlement offer within days—an early low‑ball is common
- You’re unsure how Idaho’s comparative negligence might slice your recovery
An experienced Idaho personal‑injury lawyer levels the playing field against insurance adjusters trained to minimize payouts. Lawyers work on a contingency fee basis—no fee unless they win—eliminating upfront costs.
Key Takeaways
- Safety first: Call 911, move to a safe location, and accept medical evaluation.
- Document everything: Photos, witnesses, and an accurate police report create a rock‑solid foundation.
- Mind Idaho law: Comparative negligence and a two‑year filing deadline can make or break your compensation.
- Protect your claim: Watch your words, social media, and paperwork.
- Know when to get help: Complex injuries, liability disputes, or uncooperative insurers call for professional advocacy.
About Attorneys of Idaho
Attorneys of Idaho is a Boise‑based personal‑injury firm devoted to “being better attorneys by being better people.” Our team values kindness, fun, teamwork, and community—embodied in our gilded lily logo. From car crashes on I‑86 to dog bites in Coeur d’Alene, we guide Idaho residents through the legal maze so they can focus on healing.
This article is provided for educational purposes and does not create an attorney‑client relationship. For personalized legal advice regarding your Idaho accident, consider consulting a qualified lawyer.
