What to do after a car accident in Pennsylvania
A simple checklist for the first hour and the first few days.
Get to safety and check for injuries. In Pennsylvania you must call the police right away if anyone is hurt or a car is too damaged to drive and needs a tow (75 Pa.C.S. ยง 3746). Exchange information with the other driver, take photos, and report the claim to your insurance company. Then choose a body shop for the estimate. You don't have to use the one your insurer suggests.
At the scene
- 1Get safeTurn on your hazards. If the car can be moved and no one is hurt, move it out of traffic.
- 2Check for injuries and call 911 if neededPolice must be notified right away if anyone is injured or a vehicle has to be towed.
- 3Exchange informationNames, phone numbers, insurance companies and policy numbers, plate numbers, and vehicle makes and models.
- 4Take photosBoth cars, the damage up close, the road, signs, and anything leaking.
- 5Stick to the factsDescribe what happened. Let the insurance companies sort out fault.
- 6Arrange a tow if the car isn't safe to driveCall us at (610) 273-5095 and we can set up a tow to the shop.
What to expect at our shop
A short look at what happens when you bring your car to Performance Collision Center, from the estimate to pick-up.
In the next few days
Report the claim
Call your insurer or use their app. Write down the claim number.
Choose your shop
You pick where the car is repaired. Your right to choose.
Get an estimate
Send photos online or stop by. We work with your adjuster from there.
Sort out a rental
Check whether your policy covers a rental. We can help arrange one.
Questions after an accident
Do I need a police report for a minor accident?
Pennsylvania requires immediate notice to police when someone is hurt or killed, or when a vehicle can't be driven and needs a tow. For smaller fender benders, your insurer may still ask for one, so check with them.
Should I get an estimate before I call my insurance?
You can do either first. Most people report the claim, then bring the car to the shop they choose. We can start with photos you send online.
What if I hit a deer?
That's usually covered under comprehensive coverage. See our deer collision guide.
Will my car be totaled?
Your insurer decides that based on repair cost compared to the car's value. We send them a detailed estimate with photos.
General information, not legal advice.
Need a tow or an estimate?
Call the shop or start your free estimate online.