Getting into a car accident is something that no one wants to think about, but unfortunately, these things do happen, so it’s vital to be as prepared as possible. It is important to remember that most car accidents are the types of little scrapes which go unreported on the news as there is often little damage to either the passengers or the vehicles, and it is the common nature of these types of small accidents that makes it so important to know what to do. So, in the event that an accident occurs, here are some simple steps you can take to help ensure everyone is safe and that you are taking the necessary action needed to support an insurance claim and to uphold the guidelines of the law.
Check yourself and your passengers for injuries
Even a low-velocity crash can pack quite a punch, with one of the most common injuries sustained in car accidents being whip-lash, due to being thrown forwards and backward in your seat. Before you do anything, you should first mentally check over your body to see if you feel any aches or pains anywhere, as well as looking for any cuts or bruises, as any of these symptoms could be the sign of a more significant injury. If you do feel any pain, then it is essential that you sit as still as possible, and call the emergency services for help. If you feel able to move, you can then check on the wellbeing of your passengers.
Get to safety
If you are able to move, the next step is to get to a place of safety. If your car is causing a hazard where it is, and you feel safe to drive, then you may be able to steer it to the side of the road. If you are unable to drive, or your car is too damaged, then getting yourself and your passengers to a safe location should be your top priority. From there, you can then call the emergency services if you haven’t already, to get some police assistance and file an
accident report.
Take pictures of the damage
It is important to clearly document any damage to your vehicle, as this will make it easier for your insurance company to process your claim. Knowing how much damage there is to the car will also help you get advice on what to do with the car, whether that means scrapping it and buying a new one, or getting it fixed. In some cases, you might have to take your car to a specialist, such as SpecialityCar if you are in need of a Lamborghini repair. Whatever the case may be, your insurance company should be able to advise you on the best course of action to take.
Exchange driver information
After making sure that the accident site is secure and well documented, it is wise to exchange information with the other drivers involved in the crash, including information such as their name, insurance policy number, and driver’s license details. You may also want to document the license plate number, type, colour, and model of their vehicle, as well as any signs of noticeable damage on their car, in case they make the claim that you are liable for the accident.
— Featured photo by Flickr user perthhdproductions, Creative Commons