Car accidents can happen in an instant—and when they do, you may not know what to do next. If you find yourself in a crash in the Kansas City area, one of the first questions you may ask is: “Should I call 911?” The short answer is yes — in many cases, you should.
Below, we’ll explain when and why you should call 911, how to handle the scene, and what it means for your rights and recovery after a crash.
When to Call 911 Immediately
If anyone has been hurt, even if the injuries seem minor, it’s crucial to call 911 right away. Emergency responders can assess the situation and provide immediate medical care, preventing complications that might not be visible at first. Remember, some symptoms of serious injuries—like internal bleeding or concussions—may not appear until hours later.
Call 911 immediately if:
- Anyone involved in the accident is injured or complaining of pain.
- Someone loses consciousness or appears disoriented.
- There’s heavy bleeding or difficulty breathing.
- You suspect internal injuries, head trauma, or broken bones.
Even if you’re unsure about the severity of an injury, it’s always better to be safe and let professionals evaluate the situation on-site.
Legal Requirements in Missouri
In Missouri, you must notify the police if injuries occur or property damage goes beyond about $500. Even if you believe the crash is minor, calling 911 helps document the scene and protect your interests.
Why You Shouldn’t Wait
If you wait too long to call 911 and then later claim injuries or damage, you may face questions about why you delayed. Emergency responders arriving promptly help ensure the scene is preserved and evidence is captured while conditions are fresh. That helps if you pursue an insurance claim or legal action later. It’s better to err on the side of calling than assume nothing serious happened.
What to Say and Do When You Call 911
When you call 911, provide the dispatcher with three key pieces of information: the nature of the emergency, the exact location, and the type of help needed. Be ready to answer questions about how many vehicles are involved, whether airbags were deployed, how many people are injured, and whether the vehicles are blocking traffic. Stay on the line until the dispatcher tells you it’s okay to hang up.
Stay Safe Until Help Arrives
Once you’ve called 911, make sure you and anyone else are safe. Turn on hazard lights, move your vehicle off the road if possible, and stay out of traffic. If you cannot move your vehicle and it is in danger of being hit, stay inside with your seatbelt on until emergency responders arrive. Try not to move injured persons unless they are in life‑threatening danger.
How a Police Report Can Strengthen Your Claim
When you call 911 after a car accident, responding officers will typically file an official police report. This document includes important details such as the date, time, and location of the crash, statements from drivers and witnesses, and the officer’s initial assessment of fault. Insurance companies and attorneys rely on these reports to help determine liability and damages.
Without an official record, it can be much harder to prove what really happened. Having a police report on file can make a major difference in protecting your rights and ensuring you receive fair compensation for your injuries and losses.
Contact Cohen Law Firm for a Free Consultation
After a crash, calling 911 is one of the most important steps you can take to protect your health, your safety, and your legal rights. Emergency responders ensure everyone receives proper medical attention, document the scene, and create an official report that can support your insurance or injury claim. Once the immediate emergency has passed, you should also reach out to an experienced Kansas City car accident lawyer.
At Cohen Law Firm, we can review your case, explain your options, and help you pursue the compensation you deserve for your injuries and losses. Contact us today for a free consultation to learn how we can help you move forward after your accident.