There are millions of car collisions that happen each year. Some cause property damage or damage to the vehicle and unfortunately for some, damage to its passengers or the driver causing some injuries. Whether or not there are damages or injuries, it pays to know what to do whenever caught in such a situation. Here are the first things you should do during a car collision.
What to do During a Car Collision
Stop, Make sure everyone’s safe
When in a car collision, remember to stop. Never drive away or run away from the scene of the accident however minor the collision may be. Make sure everyone’s safe.
Set up Flares, Keep Flashers on
The next thing you do is to make sure you protect the scene. Set up flares and keep your flashers on. That way, you can prevent further accidents most especially when it’s dark. If your flashers don’t work, make sure you keep a flashlight on to keep you safe while you wait. If it happens in broad daylight, make sure to put an Early Warning Device (EWD) just to make sure you warn drivers of other vehicles passing by.
Call the Police
Whether or not there are any serious injuries, it’s best to call the police. A police report will be needed to file a claim with your insurance company so without it you wouldn’t able to complete that process even if it’s just to make a claim for damage to your vehicle. A police report number will be provided for future references. Unless your vehicle interferes with traffic, it should remain where it is.
Give an accurate account of the Collision
When the police arrive, they will be asking questions as to what exactly happened. It’s very important to give an accurate account of the incident. If unsure of any facts, let the officer know. Never guess, speculate, or exaggerate anything. If asked if you’re hurt, make sure you assess first before saying yes or no. Pain from car collisions can sometimes manifest hours after the incident. Do not be hasty to answer. Instead, say you are not sure if in case there’s a discomfort however slight they may be. It is also important for you to make sure that statements made by other people involved in the incident give an accurate record as well.
Take Photos of the Collision
Make sure you take photos of the incident with a camera or with your phone. Take pictures of visible damage done on the vehicle and if you have visible injuries as well, take snapshots of those too. While doing this, make sure not to interfere with the on-going police investigation.
Exchange Information
Usually, the investigating officers who respond to your call would take all the information needed from all of those who are involved in the accident. If in case they do not respond, you should get the name, address, and phone number of the driver/drivers and passengers involved.
Most importantly, get information on the drivers’ insurance company and policy number, their driver’s license and license plate number, type, color, and model of vehicle, and location of the accident.
If there are witnesses, you could get their details as well so that you or your lawyer can contact them if in case needed.
It’s very important that you don’t discuss fault when going over facts with the driver. All will be reviewed and inspected when you file an insurance claim. The adjuster who reviews the claim determines who is at fault by looking at the damage on the property, information provided, supporting documentation like photographs, and the police report.
Report the Accident and start the claims process
It’s very important for you to report the accident to your insurance company as soon as possible. Also, find out if you can avail of any medical benefits which are part of your insurance coverage. Find out if you have Med Pay coverage which is mainly for accident-related medical bills.
You may want to call your insurance agent even while on the scene. That way, they can guide you and assist you with the claims process. That way you remove the worry from your mind and you speed up the process of getting your vehicle fixed as well.