Unfortunately, being a careful and responsible driver isn’t always enough to avoid a car accident, especially if other drivers involved aren’t careful or responsible.
Everyone handles the aftermath of a mishap differently, and sometimes it can be difficult to remember what you’re supposed to do in the event of a car crash.
Here are a few simple steps you should always try to remember ...
1. Get (Safely) Out of the Way.
Assuming that everyone is still able to drive their vehicles, it is important that the accident be moved as far away from oncoming traffic as possible to avoid further collisions. If moving is not an option, use the reflective triangle from your emergency car bag to alert other drivers and help them avoid you.
2. Get Help.
Even if an accident is relatively minor, you should still call the police after a crash. It is helpful to have an impartial judge to determine which driver was at fault, especially when it comes time to file insurance claims.
In the event of a minor crash, some injuries (such as whiplash) won’t surface until several days later. However, any obvious or suspicious injuries (i.e., things that look like concussions or possible internal bleeding, etc.) should be immediately investigated and, when appropriate, an ambulance should be called.
3. Get Information.
Sadly, cell phones are a major contributor in auto accidents, but the fact that everyone has cameras in their back pockets can make collecting information after a wreck that much easier. Take pictures of everything that you can (within reason and without dashing out into the street) and be sure to obtain these things:
- Pictures of the accident site, damage to both vehicles, license plates, and driver’s licenses.
- Contact information from everyone in the other car(s), as well as that of any witnesses.
- Insurance information from the other driver(s).
- Police names and badge numbers, as well as the police report number.
4. Get In Touch With Your Insurance Agent.
The fun part. Not. Luckily, the more details you have collected, the less painful it will be to file an insurance claim. Your agent will be able to walk you through the entire process and many actually have apps to make it even easier.
5. Get Fixed.
You should get any necessary repairs to your car done in a timely manner - preferably before driving it again. Have a licensed mechanic give it a good once-over to make sure that you didn’t miss anything. If damage has occured to your auto glass, we will not only make it as good as new, but also meet you so that you don’t have to come to us! We’re here for you, whenever you need us.
Auto accidents are the pits, but sometimes unavoidable. One of the most important things you can do is try to remain calm. The clearer your head can be, the more details you will remember and the sooner you can move on.
From all of us at Quick-Set, take care and drive safely out there!
