BLOG

What to Do Immediately After a Car Accident in Iowa or Nebraska

Robert Stahle • April 30, 2025

Car accidents happen fast—and the moments that follow can be confusing, stressful, and even dangerous. Whether you’re on a busy interstate in Omaha, a rural road outside Sioux City, or anywhere in between, knowing what to do immediately after a crash can protect your health, your rights, and your ability to receive fair compensation. At Fitch & Stahle Law Firm, we’ve been helping victims of car accidents in Iowa and Nebraska for decades. Here’s what you need to know in those critical minutes and hours following a collision.



1. Check for Injuries and Call 911

Your safety—and the safety of everyone involved—comes first. Check yourself, your passengers, and others at the scene for injuries. If anyone is hurt, call 911 immediately. Even if no one appears injured, it’s still essential to report the accident to the police, especially in Iowa and Nebraska where most accidents involving injury or property damage must be reported.

In Nebraska, a crash report is required if there is injury, death, or property damage exceeding $1,000. Iowa has similar laws. Failing to report a crash could result in fines or legal complications later.



2. Move to a Safe Location

If the vehicles are drivable and it’s safe to do so, move them to the side of the road or a nearby parking lot to prevent further accidents. Turn on hazard lights to alert oncoming traffic. If moving the vehicles isn’t possible, remain inside with your seatbelt fastened until help arrives.



3. Document the Scene Thoroughly

One of the most important steps after a car accident is to gather as much information as possible. This evidence could be critical later when filing an insurance claim or working with an attorney.

Here’s what to document:

  • Photos of the vehicles, license plates, damage, skid marks, and road conditions.
  • Names and contact information of all drivers, passengers, and witnesses.
  • Driver’s license and insurance information from all involved drivers.
  • The responding officer’s name, badge number, and a copy of the police report (or report number).

Even if you feel fine, take note of any soreness, dizziness, or anxiety. These can be signs of injury that may develop or worsen over time.



4. Do Not Admit Fault

It’s natural to want to apologize or take responsibility in the heat of the moment—but resist that urge. Admitting fault, even casually, can hurt your case later. Fault is determined by evidence, traffic laws, and the official investigation—not by what’s said at the scene.

Stick to the facts when speaking with police, and don’t speculate. Simply provide accurate information and let the report reflect what occurred.



5. Seek Medical Attention—Even if You Feel Fine

Many injuries, including whiplash, concussions, or internal trauma, may not show symptoms right away. Whether you're in Sioux City, South Sioux City, Omaha, or Lincoln, visit an ER or urgent care as soon as possible after the crash. Medical documentation is essential for proving your injuries in a personal injury claim.

If you delay treatment, insurance companies may argue that your injuries weren’t serious or weren’t caused by the accident at all. Protect your health and your claim by getting checked out early.



6. Notify Your Insurance Company

Let your insurance provider know that you’ve been in an accident, but be cautious about how much detail you provide—especially if you haven’t yet spoken to a personal injury attorney. Stick to the facts and avoid offering recorded statements or accepting a settlement before consulting legal counsel.

In Iowa and Nebraska, you typically have to report accidents to your insurer promptly, or you risk being denied coverage.



7. Contact a Car Accident Attorney in Iowa or Nebraska

If you were injured, it’s vital to contact an experienced personal injury attorney as soon as possible. Insurance companies are focused on minimizing payouts—not ensuring you’re treated fairly. A knowledgeable attorney can help you:

  • File a personal injury claim
  • Negotiate with insurance adjusters
  • Estimate your full damages (including lost wages, future medical bills, and pain and suffering)
  • Navigate the legal deadlines in Iowa and Nebraska (typically two years from the date of the accident)

At Fitch & Stahle Law Firm, we understand the specific laws and nuances of auto accident cases in both states. Our legal team is committed to helping injured clients recover what they’re owed, with no fees unless we win your case.



8. Keep Records and Monitor Symptoms

After the crash, keep all paperwork related to the accident and your recovery. This includes:

  • Medical records and bills
  • Repair estimates
  • Police reports
  • Pay stubs or documentation showing missed work
  • Journal entries tracking your pain, symptoms, or limitations

This documentation can make a significant difference in the outcome of your case.



9. Avoid Social Media

It might be tempting to share what happened—but posts on social media can be used against you by opposing attorneys or insurance companies. Refrain from posting photos, status updates, or comments about your injuries, car, or recovery until your case is fully resolved.



Final Thoughts: Your Legal Partner in Recovery

Whether your accident happened on I-29, Highway 20, or a neighborhood street in Iowa or Nebraska, the decisions you make immediately afterward can shape your recovery—physically, financially, and legally.

At Fitch & Stahle Law Firm, we offer free consultations to help you understand your rights and evaluate your case. If you’ve been injured in a car accident, don’t try to handle the aftermath alone. Let our experienced team fight for the compensation and justice you deserve.

Understanding Wrongful Death Claims in Nebraska and Iowa:

By Robert Stahle • October 30, 2025
A Guide for Grieving Families

Injured in a Car Accident in Nebraska or Iowa?

By Robert Stahle • October 22, 2025
A car accident can change your life in a matter of seconds. One moment you’re commuting or running errands, and the next, you’re facing a wrecked vehicle, physical pain, and a growing stack of medical bills. It’s stressful, overwhelming, and often confusing—especially when you’re not sure what to do next. At Fitch & Stahle Law Firm , we help car accident victims in South Sioux City , Sioux City , and across Nebraska and Iowa understand their rights and recover the compensation they deserve. In this post, we’ll walk you through the critical steps to take after a crash—and how to protect your health, finances, and legal claim. Step 1: Prioritize Your Safety and Health Immediately after a crash, your safety comes first. If possible: Move your vehicle out of traffic Check yourself and others for injuries Call 911 for medical help and law enforcement Even if you don’t feel seriously hurt, get evaluated by a medical professional as soon as possible. Many injuries—like whiplash, concussions, or internal trauma—don’t show symptoms right away. A prompt medical exam not only protects your health, it also documents your injuries for your insurance claim. Step 2: Call the Police and File an Accident Report In both Nebraska and Iowa , it’s important to report any crash involving: Injury or death Property damage over $1,000 A hit-and-run or uninsured driver The responding officer will create a police report , which includes key facts like: Date, time, and location of the accident Statements from drivers and witnesses Diagrams or photos of the scene Initial assessment of fault This report becomes vital evidence in your personal injury claim. Be honest and factual—but avoid admitting fault or guessing what happened. Step 3: Gather Evidence at the Scene (If You Can) If you are physically able and it’s safe to do so, collect the following: Photos of vehicle damage, injuries, skid marks, and surroundings Driver’s license, insurance, and contact info of all involved Contact info for witnesses Notes about the weather, road conditions, and what you recall If you’re unable to collect this yourself, Fitch & Stahle Law Firm may be able to retrieve surveillance footage, witness statements, or crash data later—but the more you gather early, the better. Step 4: Notify Your Insurance Company Most policies require you to notify your insurer after a crash. However, you do not need to give a recorded statement , especially before speaking to a lawyer. Stick to the basics: Where and when the crash happened Who was involved That you’re seeking medical treatment Avoid discussing fault, injuries, or potential settlement values. Insurance companies often use early statements to downplay your claim later. Step 5: Call a Car Accident Lawyer—Before You Talk to the Other Driver’s Insurance The at-fault driver’s insurance company may reach out soon after the crash. They might offer a quick settlement or ask for a recorded interview. Don’t be fooled— their goal is to protect their bottom line, not your recovery . When you call Fitch & Stahle Law Firm , we: Handle all communication with insurance companies Protect you from saying something that hurts your case Calculate the real value of your damages Make sure you aren’t pressured into a lowball settlement We offer free consultations and don’t charge legal fees unless we win your case. Step 6: Keep Track of Everything Start a folder or digital log for your car accident claim. Include: Medical bills and records Receipts for prescriptions or medical equipment Notes from doctor visits Pay stubs showing missed work A journal of your pain levels, emotional struggles, or daily challenges This documentation helps prove pain and suffering , lost income , and the long-term impact of your injury. What Compensation Can You Recover? Depending on the circumstances, you may be entitled to compensation for: Emergency room care and medical treatment Physical therapy and future healthcare needs Vehicle repairs or total loss Lost wages or reduced earning capacity Pain and suffering Emotional distress Permanent disability or disfigurement If the at-fault driver was reckless—such as driving drunk or texting behind the wheel—you may also qualify for punitive damages . At Fitch & Stahle , we fight for the maximum compensation available under Nebraska or Iowa law. How Long Do I Have to File a Claim? The legal deadline to file a car accident lawsuit (called the statute of limitations ) is: 4 years in Nebraska 2 years in Iowa However, it’s best to act early. Delays in filing can lead to lost evidence, unclear medical records, and a weaker case overall. Why Choose Fitch & Stahle Law Firm? We’ve spent years helping injured drivers in the Siouxland region get justice after devastating car accidents. Here’s why clients trust us: ✅ Local Experience : Based in South Sioux City , we know the roads, courts, and insurers in both Nebraska and Iowa. ✅ Full-Service Representation : From crash investigation to courtroom litigation, we handle every step. ✅ Licensed in NE & IA : Whether your accident happened on I-29, Highway 77, or in town, we’ve got you covered. ✅ No Upfront Fees : You pay nothing unless we win your case. Don’t Go Through This Alone—We’re Here to Help If you were injured in a car accident in South Sioux City , Sioux City , or anywhere in Northeast Nebraska or Northwest Iowa , don’t wait to protect your rights. The sooner you act, the stronger your claim. 📞 Call us now at 402-494-3012 🌐 Schedule your free consultation at fitch-stahlelaw.com 📍 Visit us at our South Sioux City office At Fitch & Stahle Law Firm , we fight for car accident victims every day—and we’re ready to fight for you.