Thoughts: What to do in Case You Have a Car Accident

Having an accident is stressful and always unexpected so when it happens it's easy to have jumbled thoughts and to not take the actions needed. We have put together some thoughts to help you maneuver through this difficult event. This is something you may want to go over with the young drivers in your home so they are better prepared in case of an accident. (hopefully they and you won’t ever need this)

Right after the accident:

1 - Take a few deep breaths and gather your presence of mind.

2 - Turn off your engine and turn on your hazard lights.

3 - Check yourself for injuries, then check the others in your car (when injury is in doubt call 911 for an ambulance, then ask for assistance from bystanders. (Better to err on the side of caution.)

4 - Be watchful if you get out of you vehicle and get to the side of the road asap. Often times the most serious injuries happen when a person stands by the accident in the middle of the road. (Get out of the road as soon as possible)

5 - When involved in a minor accident move your car to the side of the road.

6 - Call the police even if the accident is minor. (Police officers in some locations may not be able to respond to the accident unless there are injuries). So be able to recreate what happened for your insurance company

7 - Take pictures of the accident scene if you can. (unfortunately there are lots of dishonest people who will lie about how the accident occurred. This happened not long ago to our business office manager).

8 - Exchange information with the other party or parties. Insurance company, policy number, driver's license number, including name, phone number, and the license plate number. Often the driver of the other car is not the owner so get as much information as possible.

9 - Write down the make, model and VIN number of the other car.

10 - If there are any witnesses get their information if possible. (A lot of people are not willing to give out their information however it doesn't hurt to ask)

11 - All of information that is exchanged or needs to be exchanged can be photographed.

12 - Call your insurance company when you get home.