You’re a busy person, always on the go, so it seems almost inevitable that one day you’ll be in an automobile accident. The time immediately following an accident can be very trying, with emotions running from panic, to anger, to sadness. Staying in control is very important, though, and you’ll find that easier to do if you know what steps to take.
1. Check for injuries. Hopefully everyone is okay but take a few moments to check yourself and your passengers over. Don’t try to move anyone who is obviously injured, including yourself. If there are injuries, call an ambulance.
2. Call the police. Let them know if there are injuries.
3. Inspect the damage. Assuming the other party isn’t injured, inspect the damage to your vehicles. Take pictures if you have a camera. Laws vary from state-to-state about whether you can move your car (it may even be required if not moving it is a danger to other drivers).
4. Exchange information. Get the other driver’s name, driver’s license number, address, phone number, and insurance card, as well as the make, model and year of their car. Don’t discuss the accident until the police arrive, and do not admit fault.
5. Call your insurance company. Let your insurance company know as soon as you can about what happened. You don’t want them to be blindsided with a call from the other party’s insurance company.
If you keep these steps in mind, you’re sure to find it easier to stay cool and collected in a potentially stressful situation.
Don’t Freak Out: How to Handle an Accident
