Car accidents can be terrifying, and it is easy to get flustered afterwards and not know what steps to take. Reading about what to do in a car accident can give you some sort of peace of mind, so that if you do happen to be involved in a vehicle accident, you’ll know what to do.
Check Yourself for Injuries and Call 911
Check yourself first before checking anyone else in the car. If you can move freely and safely, slowly get out of the car and call 911. However, if feel pain and suspect you are seriously injured, remain in the vehicle, call 911 and wait until medics arrive.
Get Out of the Car
If you can move safely, get out of the car and go to the side of the road or sidewalk. If your car is safe to drive, and you are not injured, you should try to get it out of the way of traffic before exiting.
Exchange Information
If the accident involved other drivers, it is important to exchange information. Getting information does not mean anyone is admitting fault. In fact, you do not need to discuss that at all. Just ask for information. Here is what you should collect:
- Full Name and Contact Info
- Other Driver’s Insurance Company and Policy Number
- Other Driver’s License Number and License Plate Number
- Type, Color and Model of Vehicles Involved
- Location of Accident- Be as Detailed as Possible
- The Names and Badge Numbers of the Police Officers at the scene
Take Pictures
Using your smartphone or a camera, take several pictures of the accident. Include as many details as you can by taking pictures of the cars involved from different angles, close and far away. If you have any visible injuries, take pictures of those as well.
Notify Your Insurance Company
If possible, call your insurance company and begin filing your claim while you are still at the scene of the accident. This way, you can make sure you have everything they need.