How to Survive a Car Crash: A 3-Phase Checklist

This guide shows you how to survive a car crash and protect yourself in such times through a three-phase checklist: before, during, and after impact. Using guidance from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and the American Red Cross (2024), you’ll learn actionable steps that can reduce injury risk in under 5 minutes of review. No advanced skills required, only awareness and preparation.

TL;DR: You can survive a car crash by following three quick phases:

• Before — wear your seat belt properly, secure loose items, and stay alert.
• During — face forward, brace properly, and keep eyes open.
• After — turn off the car, call 911, and stay put if it’s unsafe to exit. Stay calm, stay aware, and act fast.

What Do You Need Before You Drive?

Aside from keeping your car fully functional for your trips, you also need to prepare for the worst-case scenarios, with car crashes being among the top concerns. Before you drive, make sure you have:

• A properly adjusted seat belt (lap low across hips, shoulder strap across chest)
• Headrest positioned level with the top of your ears
• Emergency kit: first-aid supplies, flashlight, phone charger, and reflective triangles
• Access to emergency contact and insurance info
• Knowledge of your airbag zones and blind spots

Preparation is the key in times of dire situations. By doing so, you can further increase your chances (and your passengers’) of survival when disaster strikes on the road.

Phase 1: Pre-Crash Actions 

You can’t always prevent a collision, but preparation determines survivability.

1. Wear your seat belt correctly. According to NHTSA (2024), seat belts reduce fatal injury risk by 45% in cars and 60% in SUVs.
2. Secure loose objects. Even a 1-kg item becomes a 30-kg projectile in a 30 mph crash.
3. Adjust seating distance. Keep at least 10 inches between your chest and the steering wheel to avoid airbag injuries.
4. Drive defensively. Maintain a 3-second following distance and scan mirrors every 5–8 seconds.
5. Plan an escape route. On multi-lane roads, identify shoulders or open lanes ahead of time.

Takeaway: A calm, alert, and properly positioned driver has the best odds of walking away from a crash.

Phase 2: During the Crash

When impact is unavoidable, immediate body control reduces trauma.

1. Stay centered and face forward. Do not lean or twist; the airbag is designed to meet a centered posture.
2. Brace properly. Press your head against the headrest, grip the steering wheel at 9 and 3 o’clock, and keep elbows slightly bent.
3. Feet flat on the floor. Avoid slamming the brake or stretching your legs, which can cause ankle or knee fractures.
4. For passengers: Cross arms across chest and press back into the seat.
5. Keep eyes open. Being conscious through impact improves immediate reaction after stopping.

Takeaway: Controlled posture and awareness during impact protect your head, neck, and spine: the three most injury-prone areas.

Phase 3: Post-Crash Response

After the vehicle stops, your goal is to avoid secondary harm.

1. Check for immediate danger. Turn off the ignition; look for smoke, leaking fluids, or traffic hazards.
2. Assess injuries calmly. Check yourself first, then passengers.
3. Call emergency services (911 in the U.S.). Provide location, number of people, and visible injuries.
4. Exit only if it’s safe. If you’re on a highway, remain inside with seat belt fastened and hazard lights on until help arrives.
5. Apply basic first aid. Stop visible bleeding with pressure; avoid moving anyone with suspected neck or back injuries.
6. Document and report. Exchange information, take photos, and notify insurance once emergency response is complete.

Takeaway: Staying alert and following a clear sequence prevents compounding injuries and speeds professional assistance.

What are Common Mistakes to Avoid in Car Crashes?

Even well-prepared drivers make grave errors in the moments before and after a crash. Recognizing these mistakes can be the difference between a safe outcome and serious injury.

• Removing your seat belt too early. Airbags may deploy seconds after a collision.
• Standing in the roadway to assess damage.
• Forgetting to check for fuel leaks or smoke before using electronics.
• Skipping a medical evaluation even if you “feel fine.” Internal injuries can appear hours later.

Next Steps

To further increase survival readiness, take on the following tasks:

• Take a defensive-driving course (AAA or NHTSA-approved).
• Keep a vehicle-specific first-aid kit and window-breaking tool in reach.
• Review this checklist every six months with family members or co-drivers.
• For deeper safety guidance, visit nhtsa.gov and redcross.org.

Quick Reference Checklist on How to Survive a Car Crash

Turn Awareness Into Survival

Car crash survival calls for your alertness and awareness. With the crash checklist we shared earlier, you can train yourself to protect everyone in your car when seconds count. Review these actions regularly and share them with family for better preparation.

Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not replace professional medical or legal advice.

Frequently Asked Questions