It’s never a situation you really want to consider, but as they say, accidents happen. It’s best to know how to handle an accident if you’re ever involved in one.
If you wreck your car, your mind probably won’t be as sharp as usual. Instill the right knowledge beforehand, and you’ll know just what to do when trouble strikes.
Take a second out of your day to read through this brief look at what you should do if you’re ever involved in a car accident.
See if everyone is okay
The first thing you want to do once your vehicle is stopped is to check to make sure everyone is okay. If you’re in a severe accident, it’s probably best to sit tight until help arrives.
If the accident is minor, assess the situation. Check all passengers for injuries, and quickly decide if it is safe to exit the vehicle.
Move the car to a safer spot
If your vehicle is still drivable, it may be safer to move it out of the flow of traffic. Most people think they will get into some kind of trouble for moving their vehicle after an accident, but that’s simply not the case.
You’re perfectly within your legal rights to move your vehicle out of the flow of traffic after an accident. In fact, it is preferred. You only start breaking laws if you decide to leave the scene of the accident completely.
Call the local authorities
You need to call the police as soon as possible. Someone else has likely already notified the authorities, but it’s safer to make the call regardless. Don’t rely on others to call for help. If you’re able, make the call yourself.
Never admit fault on the scene
When you’re standing around waiting for the police to arrive, don’t tell the other drivers it was your fault. Even if you know you did something weird that caused an accident, it’s best to remain silent on the matter.
Document the accident well
Take pictures and information while you’re still on the scene of the accident. Your insurance company will enjoy the extra info. Cover your own tail by being thorough.
Call your insurance agent
As soon as you get home safely, you need to make a phone call to your auto insurance agent. You have to report your accident to begin the processing of your claim.
Consider calling a lawyer
Depending on the nature of the accident, you may need to contact an accident lawyer to help you get the compensation you deserve. If you’re injured due to the fault of another driver, that individual is responsible for the financial fallout.
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