5 crucial things to know if you get into a car accident
March 27th, 2015 by Eli P
5 crucial things to know if you get into a car accident
Statistically, we know we are always at risk of experiencing a car accident. There’s only so much we can do to avoid it, but when the time comes, remembering these five steps should help minimize the damage.
- Remain calm
If you’re in a fender bender big or small, no good can come from losing your cool. If you’ve experienced a major accident, panic can only make things worse and add to the situation. Take a deep breath, or two, and remind yourself that the best way to get through this is by keeping a level head. - Check for injuries
First check the well being of yourself and everyone in your car, then move on to other drivers and passengers involved, if possible. If anyone has been injured, immediately call 911 - Get clear of oncoming traffic
If the car or cars can still drive, try to move them out of lanes to avoid additional collisions with any traffic. Regardless, turn on hazard lights, set out flares, if available, and otherwise try to signal approaching cars to stop and steer clear. - Collect information and document the scene
Once you are certain there’s not immediate further danger at the scene of the accident, begin to document what happened. Write down the license plate number, make and model of any cars involved; exchange insurance and identity information with other drivers; if you are able to take pictures, do so; identify any witnesses and secure their contact information; and soon as possible begin writing down what happened while the details are still fresh in your mind. Don’t forget to take pictures of any posted signs. - Contact authorities
For minor accidents, police officers may decline rushing to the scene. However, it’s wisest to leave that up to them. In most cases, it’s to the benefit of everyone concerned to have an officer on-site to take charge of safety, traffic, and mediation between parties. This will especially have value once insurance companies are notified. Be sure to follow-up with the policy department for a copy of the policy report.
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