What to Do After an Auto Accident

When an auto accident happens, or any accident, there may be a state of confusion and shock for those involved. No one wants to be involved in a car accident, but unfortunately these things tend to happen on a regular basis. Some people will experience dings and dents whereas others will experience accidents that total their vehicle, the other person’s vehicle, or both. In the instance of hard impacts, there may even be fatalities.

Try to Stay Calm when an Accident Occurs

There are a few things that you should do immediately after an accident occurs. These things will help to ensure that any medical attention needed is provided within a timely manner and that your insurance company can begin the claim as soon as possible.

One of the first things that some people do when they have been in a car accident is to get out of the car and access the damage. This is a step, but not the very first step. The situation should be accessed from your resting place after the accident occurs. If it is hazardous to stay in your car, then immediately exit if that’s an option. If conditions outside your car are hazardous, stay in your car.

Immediately Contact the Police

Many insurance companies require that there be an accident report on file with the local police department. This report is done when the accident occurs by the officers who come to the scene of the accident. They will inspect the damages, speak to everyone involved, call the proper channels, and then file the report which can be obtained at the police department.

Record Your Own Information

Your insurance company will need certain information to file the claim and find the other party, or parties, involved in the accident. Before you or the other people involved leave the scene, be sure to jot down this important information:

• The time the accident occurred, the date, and the location of the accident, specifically the street it happened on, intersecting streets, city, and state.
• Record the type of car the other person was driving; the model, make, and the number on the licensed plate.
• The information of the others involved. This includes their name, address, any phone numbers, and their personal information for their insurance.

Seek professional advice on how to manage or handle an auto accident if you are unsure of any insurance details or accident processes.