A car accident can ruin your whole day. In addition to the inconvenience of missing work or a crucial appointment, you also have to deal with the damage to your car, liability issues, possible traffic violations and even injury in some unfortunate cases.
Most drivers are likely to be involved in a car accident at least once in their lives. In this article we will tell you 5 things you should do after a car accident.
Do not leave the spot
Say you’re involved in an accident but the damage is minor. Nobody seems to be hurt at first sight. So it’s all good to go your way, right?
Not really. Whether an accident is serious, always have to stop, see the other person involved, exchange insurance information and report it to the police. If you do not, you have committed a crime.
In some countries, get away after an accident could take a charge for not paying support. It is a misdemeanor but if someone is injured or killed could be raised to a felony. Also, if anyone is injured you are obliged to provide assistance, including transportation to a hospital if necessary.
To call the police
Some of us believe that if no one was hurt in an accident is not necessary to call the police and report the accident. This is really a very bad idea and here’s why.
Let’s say that with another driver they make a sort of “gentlemen’s agreement” that insurance companies handle things but they agreed not to report the accident to the police. Even if the other driver seems to be of word, how do you know that your insurance is up to date? Or how do you know that the driver does not have active arrest warrants? If you do not receive a police report documenting for your accident: what evidence do you have that even happened?
Do not overreact
A car accident is never a pleasant experience. However, it is never a good idea to stay calm especially with the other driver. When you’re dealing with the other driver, the first thing to do is ask, “Are you okay?” Do not start blaming because you’re not going to fix anything and don’t do any good to anyone. Do some deep breaths and stay calm.
Here’s another thing you should not do at the accident spot: tell people that it was your fault. If you do this, legally you admit responsibility for the accident, which could leave you exposed to a demand or other sanctions. Just to be there, make sure everyone is safe, be polite but protect yourself at the same time.
Do not forget the proper documentation
Do not forget to properly document what happened and get the insurance information of the other driver. Try to clear your mind and find out exactly what happened. What were you doing just before the accident? What street you were and what direction you were headed? When the other driver was came into your vision?
You need to be well clear to give information to the police and insurance. In general, you’ll have to get the other driver’s name, address, name of insurance company and policy number. Take note of the make, model and color of vehicle that he drives. Do not forget to write the license plate number of the other vehicle also.
Were there any witnesses? If so, you need their names and phone numbers. If you have a camera, take some pictures of the scene. All this is useful during the later claim process.
Deal with the aftermath
While the car accident is probably quite traumatic and difficult, often the hardest part comes next. It is important to keep track of everything that needs to be addressed. This can sometimes include receiving legal and medical advice.
First, have you injured in the accident? Have you ever had pain or persistent health problems in the past? If so, you need to see a doctor immediately. You may also want to contact a lawyer if you think you’re facing large medical expenses. And if another driver is threatening legal action against you, you’ll probably have to get a lawyer.
Be sure to register your insurance claim quickly. Many insurance companies have time limits for filing the claim. It is better to know what your own insurance covers before time.