You do not expect to get in a car accident. When they happen, you will be anxious, overwhelmed, and shocked from being in an accident. You will likely be unsure of what to do or who to call.
Even with the chaos that ensues after a motor vehicle accident, it is important for you to know what steps you need to take when you get into a car accident.
Check for danger or injuries
Safety is of the utmost importance. Assess whether you have an injury. Then, ask everyone in your car if they sustained any injuries. You also need to look at your surroundings to check for additional danger. Take stock of where the crash occurred and detect whether there is a smoke smell. If so, ensure that you get everyone out of the car safely and away from the hazard.
Call the police
Even if no one has an injury, you need to call the police. Make sure you are out of harm’s way before you call. If someone has an injury, call 911, turn off your car, and wait until help comes. The officer will ask for some information from you. At this time, you should also ask for their badge number, name, and contact information. Lastly, for insurance purposes and your own records, ask for a copy of the police accident report.
Exchange information
Share your information with the other parties involved. You need each driver’s name, home address, phone number, email, license information, license plate number, and insurance company and policy number. Make sure to gather the information of any witnesses who were at the scene.
Even though the situation is scary, preparedness is a great way to minimize your anxiety.