It's natural to feel scared or panicked after a car accident, especially if this is your first time experiencing it. However, it is important to remember that you are involved in a legal process. This means that there are important steps that need to be taken if you are involved in a car crash. Luckily, once you know the steps, these events will be easier to deal with, even if you get shaken up!
Step
Part 1 of 3: Acting Immediately After an Accident
Step 1. Move the car to the side of the road if it is safe to drive
Get out of the flow of traffic to reduce the risk of another accident. Make sure you pull over to a safe place so you and other drivers can get out safely.
- To be on the safe side, turn on the hazard lights (blinking yellow lights) after pulling over.
- Watch where other cars pull over. If another car doesn't pull over, take a look and remember the license plate number after you park on the side of the road. Write down the numbers as soon as possible.
Step 2. Check yourself and others for injuries and call emergency services
If you or another passenger is seriously injured, immediately call an ambulance (118 or 119) so that a medical team can come to the scene immediately. Treat minor injuries as much as possible.
It is important to inform paramedics of the type of injury they will face upon arrival on the scene
Warning: Sometimes, injuries from car accidents can occur a few days after the incident. Monitor your health for a few days after the accident in case you later develop a soft tissue injury.
Step 3. Call the police to come and assess the situation
Police need to report this accident. If you are concerned that there will be harm caused, the police will act as a neutral third party and document the location of the incident.
- If the other driver has fled, you can tell the police his license plate number.
- In some cases, car crashes are so minor that both parties are reluctant to call the police and simply exchange insurance information. However, you must have a police report regarding this incident for insurance reasons.
Warning: In some areas, you are legally required to report a car accident to the police, even if the damage is minor and no one is injured.
Step 4. Communicate with other drivers to make sure it is safe and quiet
Once you've pulled over, walk over to the other car and ask if he's okay. Without getting angry, say that the police will come and handle the situation.
- Take a few deep breaths and try not to get angry. Keeping calm will prevent another fight from occurring.
- If the other driver is angry or angry, get back in the car and wait for the police to arrive. Don't respond in an impolite way.
Part 2 of 3: Documenting the Event
Step 1. Exchange insurance information and boxes with other drivers
In a calm tone, ask other drivers to barter insurance information. Carry your insurance information from the car or wallet. Also, have your cell phone or pen and paper ready to write down other driver's insurance information.
- If the driver does not have insurance, ask for his name, driver's license number, license plate number, address and contact information. He will face legal consequences and you can report this information to the police.
- Don't give up money without telling the insurance company, even if it's not your fault.
Step 2. Record and photograph the scene for insurance reasons
Use your phone to take pictures of both the car and the tires on the road. You can use photos to support claims with the insurance company later.
- The police will also take photos when they arrive at the location. These photos can also be used in insurance claims.
- Do not block traffic when shooting.
Step 3. Obtain witness contact information, if possible
Some drivers and other pedestrians can stop to check on the situation after the accident. Ask for their contact information in case it is needed to be provided to the police or insurance company later.
If possible, ask these witnesses to remain at the scene and give statements to the police
Step 4. Make sure you don't accept the accident fault until the police arrive
These police will determine who is at fault in this accident. If you admit your fault before the police arrive, you could be charged for the damage caused to another driver, regardless of what the police say.
At the same time, don't blame other drivers, even if you feel that way. The determination of who is responsible for the accident should be made by a neutral third party
Step 5. Cooperate fully with the police and tell the truth
Tell this accident story from your side, and make sure you're just stating the facts without embellishing and saying things that aren't true. Never lie to the police because you can be criminally charged.
Part 3 of 3: Filling in an Insurance Claim
Step 1. Request a copy of the police report once you are allowed to leave the scene
ask for a copy of the police report when it is finished. Write down the name of the police and their office, as well as any other information that will allow you to trace them.
- Note that things may not be required to fill out an insurance claim. However, having access to the details the police collect from the incident will make it easier to file a claim.
- Wait until the police release you from the scene. Don't just walk away, or you'll look like you're running away from the scene.
Step 2. Contact the insurance company to start filing claims
Check your insurance card for an “in case of accident/claim” number that you can contact. Call the insurance agent immediately after the accident to start processing the claim.
Calling the insurance company to report an accident will protect your property, but also provide an opportunity for the company to be prepared to protect you
Tip: We recommend that you enter this “in case of accident” number into your cell phone for easy access.
Step 3. Provide as much information as possible to the insurance company
The agent will state any necessary information regarding the incident, such as names, addresses, and insurance information of everyone involved. Tell the agent about the photos and notes you took on site, and ask how you can provide this information to the insurance company.
- If you are asked for a copy of the police report, let the agent know as well. They may want to receive additional copies of this report.
- Make copies of all evidence and documentation before depositing them with the insurance company so you can also access this information.
Step 4. Make an appointment with the insurance company to determine the best way to repair the car
The agent will tell you how much repair you and the insurance company are paying for. Ask the agent if there is a repair company or service that you should use to repair the vehicle.
