What to Do After a Car Crash: Tow, Recovery & Next Steps

Car accidents are among the most stressful events a driver can face. Even minor fender-benders can leave you shaken, confused, and unsure of what to do next. While every crash is different, having a clear plan can make the situation more manageable—and safer.

At Darrah’s Towing & Recovery, we’ve responded to thousands of crash scenes across Cedar Rapids, Iowa City, and Eastern Iowa. Our experience shows that drivers who stay calm and follow the right steps protect themselves better, handle insurance claims more smoothly, and get back on the road faster.

This guide provides a step-by-step breakdown of what to do after a car crash: from ensuring safety to calling a tow truck and contacting your insurance company.

Step 1: Safety First

The immediate aftermath of a crash can be chaotic. Your first priority should always be safety.

• Check for injuries: Start with yourself, then passengers, then others involved. Call 911 if anyone is hurt—even if injuries seem minor.

• Turn on hazard lights: Alert other drivers to the accident.

• Move to safety if possible: If vehicles are drivable, move them to the shoulder or a safe location to avoid blocking traffic. If not, stay inside the vehicle with your seatbelt on until help arrives.

• Stay calm: Take deep breaths and focus on the steps ahead.

👉 Pro Tip: Keep a reflective triangle or emergency flares in your trunk to increase visibility in low light.

Step 2: Call Emergency Services

Even for small crashes, it’s best to notify local authorities.

• Dial 911: Report the accident, share your location, and follow operator instructions.

• Wait for police: Officers will document the incident, take statements, and prepare a report—often required by insurance companies.

• Medical response: Paramedics can evaluate injuries on-site, even if they don’t seem urgent.

👉 Pro Tip: Stay cooperative, but avoid admitting fault—let the investigation and insurance process determine responsibility.

Step 3: Document the Scene

Accurate documentation is essential for both insurance claims and protecting yourself legally.

• Take photos: Capture vehicle positions, damage, skid marks, license plates, and surrounding conditions.

• Exchange information: Share names, addresses, phone numbers, driver’s license numbers, insurance details, and license plates with the other driver(s).

• Collect witness statements: If bystanders saw the accident, ask for their contact info.

• Note conditions: Weather, traffic, and road hazards can all be relevant to insurance claims.

👉 Pro Tip: Use your phone’s notes or voice memo feature to quickly record your thoughts before details fade.

Step 4: Contact a Car Tow Service

If your vehicle is unsafe to drive, you’ll need professional towing or recovery services. This is where a company like Darrah’s Towing & Recovery makes all the difference.

Why You Shouldn’t Drive After a Crash

• Hidden mechanical damage can cause breakdowns or accidents later.

• Leaking fluids may pose fire risks.

• Misaligned wheels or bent axles can make steering dangerous.

What to Expect from Professional Towing

• Fast response times: Companies with GPS-enabled fleets can reach you quickly.

• Specialized equipment: Flatbeds, winches, or heavy-duty wreckers depending on the vehicle.

• Safe handling: Certified operators know how to load damaged vehicles without causing further harm.

👉 Pro Tip: Save Darrah’s number—(319) 366-3535—in your phone before you need it.

Step 5: Notify Your Insurance Company

Contact your insurance provider as soon as possible after the crash.

• Provide details: Share the police report number, photos, and other documentation.

• Follow instructions: Insurance companies may direct you to specific repair shops or have preferred towing partners.

• Keep receipts: If you paid for towing or roadside assistance, keep documentation for reimbursement.

👉 Pro Tip: Many insurers now allow you to start claims through a mobile app, speeding up the process.

Step 6: Arrange Vehicle Recovery or Repairs

Once your vehicle has been towed, you’ll need to decide on next steps.

• Repair shop: Work with your insurer to choose an approved shop or one you trust.

• Storage: If immediate repairs aren’t possible, your vehicle may be stored temporarily at a secure lot.

• Replacement vehicle: Check your policy for rental car coverage.

👉 Pro Tip: A reputable towing company will work directly with your chosen repair shop or insurance company to simplify the process.

Step 7: Prioritize Your Well-Being

Accidents are stressful physically and emotionally. After the initial chaos settles:

• See a doctor: Even if you feel fine, some injuries appear hours or days later.

• Track expenses: Medical bills, repairs, and lost wages may be relevant for claims.

• Take time to recover: Stress can linger—don’t rush back into driving if you’re not ready.

Why Professional Towing Matters After a Crash

Not all towing services are equal. Choosing the wrong provider can add frustration to an already stressful day. At Darrah’s Towing & Recovery, we’ve built our reputation on:

• 24/7 availability – Accidents don’t follow a schedule.

• Local expertise – We know Cedar Rapids, Iowa City, and surrounding highways.

• Specialized equipment – Light, medium, and heavy-duty trucks for any vehicle.

• Customer-first service – Clear communication and safe handling.

• Insurance cooperation – We help streamline claims and paperwork.

Real Customer Testimony

"I was in a collision near downtown Cedar Rapids, and my car was badly damaged. I was shaken and didn’t know what to do. A passerby suggested I call Darrah’s Towing & Recovery. Within 20 minutes, a tow truck arrived. The driver was calm, professional, and walked me through every step. He made sure my car was safely loaded and even explained how to start the insurance process. What impressed me most was how they treated me—not just my car. In a situation where I felt helpless, Darrah’s gave me peace of mind. I’ll never forget how much easier they made that day."— Mark T., Cedar Rapids, IA

This testimony shows the real difference professionalism and compassion can make after a crash.

Step-by-Step Recap

Here’s a quick checklist to keep in mind after a car crash:

1. Ensure safety first – check for injuries, move to a safe spot, and turn on hazards.

2. Call 911 – report the accident and wait for authorities.

3. Document the scene – photos, notes, and exchanged information.

4. Contact a tow company – get professional help if your vehicle isn’t drivable.

5. Notify insurance – start your claim as soon as possible.

6. Arrange repairs or storage – coordinate with repair shops or your insurer.

7. Focus on recovery – seek medical care and manage stress.

Final Thoughts

Accidents are overwhelming, but knowing what to do makes a huge difference. From ensuring safety at the scene to coordinating with insurance, every step matters. And when it comes to towing, choosing the right partner is critical.

At Darrah’s Towing & Recovery, we’re more than a tow company—we’re a trusted ally in some of life’s toughest moments. Our technology, experience, and compassionate service ensure that when accidents happen, you’re never alone.

Call to Action

📞 Save our number today: (319) 393-7900

Visit darrahstowing.com to learn more about our 24/7 towing and recovery services in Cedar Rapids, Iowa City, and Eastern Iowa.

When accidents happen, you can trust Darrah’s to respond quickly, handle your vehicle with care, and guide you through the next steps.