What should you do immediately after a minor accident?
Get your emotions under control
You may be feeling angry. Actually, you may be feeling like strangling the other driver because now your car is a wreck. You are entitled to your emotions but wait until you are back home to vent. Now it’s important to get them under control and act in a way that benefits you.
Check for injuries
Make sure that you are ok, that your passengers are also safe. Check if the driver of the other car looks to be ok. If there are injuries or if you are unsure as to the extent of the injuries, don’t delay and call an ambulance.
Check for fire
After the persons involved in the crash have been deemed to be safe, you should focus your attention on the vehicles. If there are sparks or fire or if you can smell smoke or see a puddle of gasoline quickly move out of the way and make sure everyone else is also out of danger.
Move the cars out of the road
Don’t cause another accident by leaving the cars in the middle of the road. Document the crash by taking pictures of the cars and their position after the crash, then move them to the side away from oncoming traffic.
Call the police
This may not be something you think about right away. You may think you can negotiate with the other driver, or maybe your insurance company will show up and clear up the situation. That may be. But you must call the police and get an official report of what happened. Later on, contact your police department to obtain a copy of the accident report.
Talk to the other driver
While waiting for the police to show up, approach the other driver and exchange contact information. Obtain their name, address, driver’s license number, license plate number, make and model of their car and insurance information.
Two things are important here. First, don’t try to leave the scene of the accident. Second, don’t engage in negotiations with the other driver at this point and on your own.
Call your insurance company
Don’t fumble trying to find their phone number. It is generally listed on the back of your insurance card. Let them know what just happened.
Talk to a knowledgeable accident lawyer
No matter how minor the car accident, handling it can be daunting and time-consuming. You will have to take care of your medical issues if any, and also get your car repaired. That is why it becomes critical for you to have the legal help you need. When you are looking for an experienced, knowledgeable car accident attorney, 1-800-Injured can help you find one. Get more information here.
