TAKING ACTION, POST-COLLISION
Being in a car accident is, without question, very overwhelming and exhausting. It is therefore no wonder that, after such an unfortunate event, your nerves are rattled and you become quite flustered and unsure about the steps to take so that everything needing to be done is seen to appropriately. To help you through such a confusing experience, we have listed some of the most important things for you to consider after having been involved in a car collision. Below are tips that will help you know exactly what to do, and, by knowing this, you will be better prepared to deal with the situation effectively and responsibly.
Safety first: Before thinking or doing anything else, be sure that you, your passengers and the people in the other car you were involved in the accident with are physically safe. If anyone has been seriously injured, call for emergency assistance and an ambulance straight-away.
Do not admit fault: After an accident, it is most likely that you will experience sentiments of shock and confusion, and so it is very important to avoid speaking to those in the vehicle you were involved in the accident with about the details and happenings of the collision. And this is especially true when it comes to claiming fault or responsibility. In short, don’t do it to better protect yourself and your rights.
Contact your insurance company: It is important to report the accident to your insurance company in order to file a claim. Some companies also have specific procedures that you must follow after the accident, such as calling specific towing companies, in order to be insured. By not contacting your insurance straight-away, you are potentially jeopardizing your chances of claiming for the accident. Note that many companies have this condition as a pre-requisite in their policies. Be sure to contact your insurance company to get more details on the steps to take if you are in a car accident in order to help you be sufficiently prepaid in case of its occurrence.
Take personal notes and details on motorists involved: Be sure to get all of the information of the people that were involved in the accident, such as their name, address, phone number, insurance company, license plate number etc. This information will most likely become very useful when it comes to dealing with your insurance company, and you will, without doubt, be glad to have taken it.