Fleet Policies (SOPs) · Word template
Free Accident Response Procedure (SOP)
An accident response SOP that gives drivers a clear, step-by-step procedure for the scene of a crash: protect people first, gather facts, notify the right people, and file the report. Use it alongside our fleet calculators to size the costs this template tracks, or browse fleet management software when you are ready to automate the workflow. See all downloads in the template library, and check the fleet glossary for any unfamiliar terms.
Built and reviewed by the FleetOpsClub research team. Preview it free below.
- A step-by-step at-scene procedure drivers can follow under stress
- A notification chain (who calls whom, and in what order)
- An information-gathering checklist for the scene
- Post-incident steps including reporting, testing triggers, and follow-up
- Editable CSV. Yours to keep
- Print or save as PDF
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How to use it
- 1
Adapt the notification chain to your dispatch, safety, and insurance contacts.
- 2
Confirm any post-accident drug/alcohol testing triggers against current FMCSA rules before finalizing.
- 3
Print a condensed version for the glovebox accident kit and train drivers on it.
- 4
Pair it with your accident report form so the scene data flows straight into a record.
- 5
Review after each serious incident and at least annually.
What's inside
- A step-by-step at-scene procedure drivers can follow under stress
- A notification chain (who calls whom, and in what order)
- An information-gathering checklist for the scene
- Post-incident steps including reporting, testing triggers, and follow-up
- Editable Word document you can print for the glovebox and adapt
Preview the template
Here's a real sample of the layout — the actual columns and structure you'll work in. The complete template, plus the editable spreadsheet, unlocks the moment you enter your email.
Preview
Accident Response Procedure (SOP)
1. Immediate Safety Steps
Stop safely, check for injuries, call emergency services if anyone is hurt, and protect the scene (hazards, warning triangles) to prevent a secondary collision.
2. Do Not Admit Fault
3. Notification Chain
4. Information to Gather at the Scene
5. Post-Accident Testing & Reporting
6. Follow-Up & Investigation
Frequently asked questions
Quick answers to the questions buyers usually ask once the category, software, or rollout details start getting more specific.
At a chaotic scene, drivers rarely have the full picture, and an off-hand admission can complicate the insurance and legal process. The instruction is to be factual and cooperative (report what happened, exchange required information), but leave fault determination to investigators and insurers.
For FMCSA-regulated drivers, certain crash outcomes trigger post-accident testing within defined timeframes. The specific triggers and windows are set by regulation and can change, so confirm the current FMCSA requirements and build them into your SOP rather than relying on memory.
A condensed version of this SOP, an accident report form, a pen, a disposable camera or reminder to use a phone, warning triangles/reflectors, and your emergency contact numbers. Keep it in every vehicle.
Your safety or fleet manager typically leads a post-incident review using the report, photos, and any telematics/dashcam data to find root cause and corrective actions. The goal is preventing recurrence, not just closing the claim.