What to do If You’re in an Accident
This is something we hope we'll never have to deal with, but it's a good idea to know how to handle it just in case. Assuming you or no one else is badly injured, here are a few good tips to follow.
1. IS ANYONE INJURED?
If they are, don't move them. Call for help and the police. It’s a good idea to always have a cell phone handy. If there’s bleeding, you can help to control it by applying direct pressure to the wound. Keep the injured person warm.
2. PROTECT ONCOMING TRAFFIC
Immediately put your emergency flasher on. If there's no one injured in the vehicle, it might be best to leave the car until an officer arrives and completes a police report.
3. TURN OFF VEHICLE ENGINES
Whatever you do, don’t smoke! Smoking can cause an explosion or fire if there's a gas leak.
4. EXCHANGE INFORMATION
Take down the other person's license plate and driver's license number, and make sure you get their correct, full name and address. Get their work and home number if possible. You'll want their insurance company name and policy number too. When the officer arrives, take his or her name and badge number.
5. GET WITNESSES
Try and get the statement of a witness if possible. Discuss what they saw and write it down. Talk to the other driver and document what they think happened. Don't admit guilt, and don't sign anything.
6. CALL YOUR INSURANCE AGENT
Your insurance agent will need all the information you’ve taken down. Try not to think in terms of having your insurance premium raised if you make the call. Your concern should be to report the facts, and protect yourself from the other party retaliating without your knowledge down the line.
