Car Accidents - What to do
Car accidents – even if they’re just relatively minor “dings” – are major occurrences. But as with any type of accident, you’re less likely to lose your cool if you’re prepared and know what to do. Here’s a guide to follow in the event that a car accident ever happens to you.
• Before an accident ever occurs, make sure that you’re ready: keep a small notepad and pen with you so that you can take the necessary notes at an accident site. And it’s a good idea to keep a disposable camera in your car too; change it out every couple months to make sure there’s no damage to the film from sitting in heat or cold.
• Stop your car in a safe place where it can be easily seen, and turn off the ignition. If possible, turn on the hazard lights. Use caution when getting out of your car, especially if it’s your side that’s been banged up.
• Determine if any injuries have occurred in the accident, you or anyone else. If anyone is injured, do not move them.
• Call the police if you have the local number handy, or 911 to reach both the police and an ambulance if necessary.
• Write down information about the other involved parties. You’ll need to note the license plate number and the make, model, and year of the other car; the driver’s name (first and last), address, and driver’s license number; the name of the other driver’s insurance company; and the names and addresses of other passengers or witnesses.
• Ask the police for their names and/or other identifying details (such as badge number), and inquire where you can obtain a police report for insurance purposes.
• If there is any reason at all to suspect that the other driver was under the influence of alcohol, ask the police to perform a breathalyzer test on both the other driver and yourself.
• Even if the accident was your fault, do not admit any guilt. When you show your proof of insurance, don’t reveal how much coverage you have.
• If the other involved party offers you money, don’t accept it, because it may prevent you from filing a claim; the damage could be more extensive than it looks. Similarly, don’t agree to just forget about an accident if it seems minor – you won’t really know the extent of the internal damage until your car is thoroughly checked by a professional.
• Make sure that everything is well-documented. Use your disposable camera to take pictures of your own car, the other car, and the accident site from many different angles, and when you develop the film be sure to make copies of the pictures. Write down the time of day, the weather, road conditions, traffic density, driving speed, and any hazards (such as obstructions in the roadway). Sketch out a map of the accident site and make sure to include stop lights and traffic signs – even the lines marking turning lanes. If possible, measure the skid marks or ask the police what the measurements were. Note pre-existing damage on the other car so that the other driver can’t claim more than he or she should.
Being in a car accident is something that none of us want to go through. But if you’re adequately prepared, you can save yourself a lot of hassle in the long run. And don’t forget the most important step of all: be thankful that you’re able to walk away from your accident!