Getting into a wreck is terrifying. Whether it’s your fault or another drivers’, it’s important to know what to do after an accident. The most important thing is to make sure everybody is safe. After that, you can worry about the details. And finally, follow up with the appropriate people. Knowing exactly what to do when you have an accident can make it less frightening if it were to ever happen.
What to Do After an Accident: Calmly Access the Situation
Safety First
Knowing what to do after an accident starts with safety. The first thing to do is to see if you are injured, or if any passengers are injured. If anybody is hurt, contact the police and try not to move until help arrives. If everybody seems unharmed, the next thing to do is to check on the other car. Put your hazard lights on and watch carefully for other traffic when you leave your car. See if anybody is in need of emergency services. If everybody involved seems unharmed, the next thing to do is access the situation. If an accident seems minor and is causing a danger to ongoing traffic, you might want to move your cars to the side of the road. Call the police and then wait for help.
Exchange Information
The next step in knowing what to do after an accident is to document the situation and exchange information. Take photos of your car and the other vehicle. Note any marks or damage, and take photos from several angles. You should also take photos of the scene, including tire tracks. While you wait for the police to arrive, exchange insurance information with the other driver. It’s also a good time to arrange for somebody to pick up from the scene.
Follow-Up
Knowing what to do after an accident in the immediate aftermath is important, but you also need to know what to do in the next few days. Arrange for somebody to take you home from the scene, and coordinate with your insurance provider to see if they will provide a rental. Begin the process of filing a claim with your insurance company. They will determine who is at fault and help you figure out what to do about your car.
Getting into a car wreck can leave you frazzled and confused, but hopefully, these tips will help you remember what to do after an accident. Just make sure and remember that safety is the most important thing. Make sure that nobody is injured before you take any further steps. Wait for emergency personnel if there are any injuries. Contact the authorities and exchange information with the other driver. Document the scene, and then contact your insurance company. Hopefully, you won’t ever have to go through the stress of an accident, but it doesn’t hurt to be prepared just in case.