How to Prepare Yourself in the Event of a Car Accident

Car accidents can be sudden and unpredictable. You’re driving down the road, singing along to your favorite song, when the unexpected happens. There’s nothing more frightening to a driver than the sound of squealing tires and crunching metal. Even if the collision is a minor one, you still feel shaken and perhaps uncertain of what steps to take next.

            More than 10 million car accidents occurred in the United States in 2009, according to the U.S. Census Bureau report, yet many motorists still find themselves unsure of what do to when they’ve been involved in a car crash. Preparedness is key and will save you time in the long run when you’re filing a claim with your insurance agent.

            If you were hit by another driver, or if you accidentally crashed into another car, take the following steps:

            Move your vehicle to a safe location. It’s critical to get out of harm’s way as soon as possible so that other drivers don’t hit your car. Remember to stay calm. If there are any passengers in your car, make sure that everyone is okay and not in need of medical assistance. If they are hurt, call 911.

            Do not admit fault. Even if you’re convinced that your negligence led to the fender bender, do not state this to the driver of the other car, to the police or even to your own passengers. Most motorists are still shaken after an accident, and therefore unsure of how the events unfolded. Don’t make a statement that could come back to bite you. Let your insurance agent get to the bottom of the accident.
            Call the police. The authorities will alert you to whether or not you need an officer on the scene. If they arrive, make sure to obtain a copy of the police report.

            Collect information. Be sure to exchange insurance information with the other driver. Make sure to write down his or her insurance policy number and carrier, license plate number and the make and model of the car. If there are any witnesses at the scene, jot down their contact information as well. It may be useful to take pictures of the damage to your vehicle as well as to the other car. If you sustained any injuries, get a picture of the bruises as well.

            Report the accident to your insurance agent. This is critical. Remember that your insurance agent is on your side during intense times like this. Contact your agent as soon as possible to report the accident and file a claim.

            Car accidents can be stressful and unnerving, so it’s important that you prepare as much as possible before a crash. Even if you’ve been involved in an accident before, it’s beneficial to have a refresher course on what to do. Print out the above checklist and carry it in your glove compartment. Hopefully, you won’t need it, but it’ll come in handy if you’re ever driving down the road and you hear that dreaded noise.