You’re driving I-465 like you’ve done a hundred times before — fast, focused and trying to get somewhere. Then it happens. A sudden jolt, a loud impact, maybe the screech of tires or the crunch of metal. Everything feels disoriented for a second, but your mind starts racing: What do you do now?
When a crash happens on one of Indianapolis’ busiest highways, there is no time to panic. Here’s what you need to do, step by step.
Pull over and stay safe
If your car is still drivable, guide it carefully to the shoulder, an off-ramp or a safe nearby exit. Turn on your hazard lights immediately for visibility and to signal that something’s wrong.
If your vehicle is disabled and you’re stuck in a live lane, the safest move is often to stay inside, keep your seatbelt fastened and wait for emergency responders unless the vehicle is on fire or there’s another immediate threat.
Call 911 and report the crash
Under Indiana law, you are required to report the accident. Even if it feels minor, do not skip this step, especially not on highways like I-70 or I-465, where speed and traffic volume can quickly escalate a situation.
Give the dispatcher clear location details, especially if you are in between exits. Request medical help if anyone appears hurt or even just shaken up. That record matters later, both for your safety and for any legal follow-up.
Document everything you can
Use your phone to take photos of your car and the other vehicle or vehicles’ license plates, the position of the cars, nearby signage and any visible injuries.
Exchange names, contact information and insurance details with the other driver, but avoid discussing blame. If the crash involved a truck, multiple cars or poor road conditions, those photos might become a crucial piece of the puzzle later.
Get medical help right away
Do not assume that “walking away” means you are fine. Highway-speed collisions can cause injuries that take hours or days to fully show up, such as concussions, whiplash and internal bruising.
Getting checked out is not just about health; it also helps establish a medical record in case symptoms worsen or a claim becomes necessary.
Don’t wait to take the right next step
Once the dust settles, it’s easy to try and forget it happened, especially if you are sore but mobile and the damage looks fixable. But serious injuries are not always obvious at first, and insurance companies often move quickly to protect their interests. If the crash involved multiple drivers or a commercial vehicle, getting legal guidance early can help you avoid costly missteps and make sure the facts are preserved before they start to blur.