If you’re in a car accident, the first thing you should do is get the vehicle to a safe location as soon as feasible. This may not always be achievable, depending on the severity of the accident – and that’s fine. If you are engaged in a small fender-bender in a high-traffic location, however, pulling the vehicles over to the side of the road will make everyone considerably safer. This will make it easy for you to share information with any other impacted parties, in addition to lowering the danger of future harm or injury. When the automobiles have passed through all lanes of traffic, turn off the engine and depart the vehicle.
You may assess the damage after you and the cars are out of harm’s way. Check to determine if everyone is okay and if anyone requires medical treatment. Even seemingly small injuries may necessitate medical attention. Call 911 and describe the scenario to the operator if you’re unsure. Even if everyone claims they don’t require an ambulance, it’s a good idea to contact the cops anyhow. Your insurance company may request (or require) a police report as part of the claim, depending on the severity of the accident.
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You’ll want to gather as much information as possible, including the names of all parties involved (including passengers), their contact information, license plate numbers, make and model information for any vehicles involved, and the other driver’s or drivers’ insurance information. Additional information may be required by your personal insurance carrier.
This is why it’s a good idea to speak with your insurance agent and seek their advise on what to do if you’re in an accident. Many insurance companies provide a smartphone app that you may use to take images of the accident, damages, and paperwork as part of any future insurance claim.
If you don’t have access to an app, make sure to photograph the accident site as much as possible. If you don’t have your phone with you or it was damaged in the accident, borrow one and contact your insurance agent for more information.
The best thing you can do to avoid an accident is to plan for it ahead of time. Nerves and adrenaline are high in the aftermath of a vehicle accident, so you may not be thinking clearly. Knowing how to manage things in the case of an accident, whether you’re the driver or a passenger, may be useful to everyone concerned. If you’re afraid about forgetting something, make a checklist that you can have in the car with you at all times. This way, if you are unlucky enough to be involved in an accident, you will know precisely what to do.
Additionally, before getting in the car, make sure you know where all of your vital documents are. You should know where your legal vehicle registration and proof of insurance are stored in the car, and you should always have your driver’s license with you when you go behind the wheel.
