A car accident is a very terrifying experience. There are many things you need to do when you get in one, and there are a few things you should do to minimize what the accident will be costing you. Follow these tips and you will come out feeling confident that you did everything you could after the accident took place.
Call the Police
The police are not always needed depending on your state laws and the seriousness of the accident. It is still always best to call the police because they need to do an accident report anyways, and it will save you the trip to the police station. If you were not the at fault driver it also gives the police the opportunity to give the other driver a ticket, that is provided it is a punishable offense.Pull Car Over Off the Road
Once your car is far enough off of the highway or city road traffic will resume. It is most dangerous during the night for obvious reasons. Turn on your four way flashers and set up reflectors that you should put somewhere in your car. This will prevent further accidents from taking place because unless they see your car, they assume there is nothing on the side of the road.Record Their Information
This is for the most part common knowledge, but this will just remind you of the information needed. Obviously you should write down the names, addresses, and phone numbers of any of the involved drivers, as well as any witnesses of the accident that stay to help out. Write down a description of the car such as the model and color. Record their insurance company and license plate number because if worse comes to worse, provided the plates aren't stolen, these could be used to track them down if you cannot reach them. To be safe you should also write down the vehicle identification number because many insurance companies only record this number and not the license plate number. Determine the Damage and/or Injuries
After checking to make sure the other involved riders of both parties are okay you should make sure to discover the extent of the damage done to both cars. If you don't keep a camera in your car it would be wise to put a disposable camera in your glove box for proof. Take pictures of the damage done not only to their car, but yours as well. You can never have too many pictures of this as they can be crucial in court cases.File the Car Accident Report
Even in the case of it being only a minor car accident it is vital that you fill out a legal accident report with the police. Do not leave the scene until the police file a full report if they are there. If the accident is minor enough and the police don't need to come you will have to go to the police station to file the report.Only Discuss with the Police
Although you may think it wise to talk with the other driver about the accident, you shouldn't talk to them unless it is necessary. You could accidentally admit to the faulted driver or liability that may not in fact be your fault. The only information you should talk with them about are questions not regarding the financial situation. Things like checking if they are ok and getting their information are acceptable.Call Your Insurance Agent
Call your insurance agent or insurance companies 1-800 number as soon as you possibly can. If you can call while you are at the scene, and the police are willing to talk to your insurance provider you will save yourself a lot of time waiting for a claim later on. The information is also going to be more accurate.
These are the seven most important things that need to be done after a car accident. Fulfill this list and you should be comforted knowing you did everything you could to help yourself and your case if there needs to be one. Safe driving.
