Nobody wants to meet an accident while on the road particularly if you’re behind the wheel. It’s the least we would like to encounter the reason why most of us take extra care when driving regardless of the weather condition.
While many of us would like to stay safe all the time, it is also best to be prepared for the worst. In this way, you will know exactly what to do without panicking and you also lessen the trauma in the event you encounter a car accident. Common sense and alertness prove vital in times of emergencies.
The first basic step you should do is to check for injuries. A collision often causes injuries in the head, arms and legs involving the driver and his passengers notably if the impact is strong. Find out right away if you (as the driver) and the people riding with you are hurt and then call 911 to get an ambulance to the area. Keep your passengers calm while waiting.
The next thing you need to do is to move your vehicle to the roadside to prevent traffic jam in the area. But if your car and the other vehicle involved are not causing any traffic, it would be best to leave them as is so that law enforcers will have a better view of the situation.
Do take the opportunity to take photos of the scene of accident. Make sure you take closeup shots of where your car was hit and the other vehicle involved as well. You will be able to use these images as proof and submit them to your insurance provider. The police can also use them when making their spot report. If the situation brings you to court, the photos will also prove useful.
Provide your statement to the police as accurately as possible. Keep in mind that whatever you say will also be useful in filing your claims with the insurance firm. Likewise, you may have to get the officer’s name and contact number.
Apart from the police officer’s details, it’s a good idea to get the personal details of the other driver involved. Write down the full name, address, contact number, license number, insurance company and contact number, car brand, model and year.
The statements from witnesses are also important so if you still have the time, write them down. Ask their permission if they’d like to be contacted by your lawyer or insurance provider.
Finally, do not leave the place until the police and the paramedics have arrived and your safety is ensured. Remember that doing so will make you liable in court.
Photo via fcihealth.com
About the guest author:
Marcus is a business blogger who writes for a number of sites including CheapCarInsurance.net.