Dealing with an auto collision can be stressful and confusing — and if you’ve survived the accident without a scratch, you still need to get out of harm’s way.
To calmly navigate your way immediately after an accident, it’s helpful to know what to do. Here is a simple guide for dealing with an auto collision.
- If you are involved in an accident, safety should be your priority. If possible, and especially if the damage is minor, get your car out of traffic and away from moving vehicles. Park as far onto the berm as possible, and make sure there are no cars approaching or behind before you get out of your car.
- Next, see if anyone is injured. If there are injuries, call 9-1-1, and follow the dispatcher’s instructions.
- Even if there aren’t any injuries, you still need to call the police to notify them of the accident. A police report will assist with any insurance or legal claims; if law enforcement does not respond, you can file a report at the police department.
- Exchange information with the other driver or drivers, as well as witnesses. Write down names, addresses, driver’s license numbers, license plate numbers and insurance policy numbers.
- If you have a camera of any kind, take photos of the scene to document the location of the accident, the positions of the other vehicles involved and the damage caused.
- Call your insurance company. The phone number will be listed on the proof of insurance you are required to keep in your car.
- After everything at the scene is taken care of, you can tow or drive your vehicle to a shop to get it repaired.