From graduating the test, everyone dreads the day that they have an accident. But, statistically speaking, you’re bound to get into a scrape at some point. Instead of being worried about it, it’s better to be prepared. In the event that you do have an accident, knowing what to do can save you a lot of time and effort.
Preparation
Preparation is key in getting out of sticky situations. You don’t have to plan with military precision, but a strong idea of what needs to be done if you have an accident is necessary. First, whenever you get a new car or insurance policy, lookup the procedure for reporting an accident. Some companies may require a phone call at the scene, whereas others will give you a few days. Be aware of the law in your area, as a lot of places will require police reports for car accidents. You can usually find policy information on the insurance company’s website, Make sure that you always have a way to take down people’s details, incase you need their contact information.
At The Scene
At the scene of the accident, you should already know what to do, having planned ahead. First, talk to the other drivers involved and make sure that they stick around. Look for any witnesses to the accident, who have a strong understanding of what happened. Collect the driver’s and witness’ contact details, and give out your own. Now, take as many relevant and unique photographs of the accident area as possible.
If you have a dash cam installed, make sure that the footage is saved and won’t be wiped. Dash cams are small video cameras that sit on or above your dash. They constantly record to provide accurate evidence, and can even make insurance cheaper.
Legal Issues
Having an accident can present a lot of legal issues. If someone gets injured during the crash, you may be responsible to pay damages. To protect yourself from this, contact a legal professional straight after the accident. They’ll be able to help you work out the level of risk that you’ll be taken to court, and help to prepare your case before you get summoned.
In recent years, it’s become more and more common for criminals to use accidents as a way to make money. People will deliberately force you to drive into the back of them and will claim that they are injured. With no way to disprove whiplash and no way to prove it was their fault, this trap can be a costly one. If you suspect something like this, call the police to the scene and notify your legal support and insurance company.
Remember, be calm and collected at the scene of the accident. It will be harder to collect evidence and recall the events afterwards if you’re stressed out. Do research related to your area, and know what to avoid.
