Accidents Happen: What to Do if you’re Involved in an Accident
2015-08-19
By: Denise Koslowsky
There’s often a large emphasis placed on rules of the road and how to drive when a new driver gets behind the wheel (as there should be). However, these new drivers aren’t taught one of the most important things about being behind the wheel: what to do in the event of an accident.
Hey, we get it. Accidents happen. You can be the safest driver in the world, but often times it isn’t your driving that is the issue. We figured it would be a good idea to provide new drivers the information they need in the event of an accident.
- Remain calm. Getting in an accident can be scary, but if you remain calm, it will be easier to deal with the accident.
- If possible, pull off the road to get out of the way of traffic. If this isn’t possible due to the damage to the vehicle, wait for the police or other emergency services to arrive.
- Call 911 if anyone is injured and to alert the police department in order to file a police report. Filing this police report is especially important if you feel as though you are not at fault.
- Request information for eyewitnesses. Let them know you are requesting that they be a witness of the accident and that you would like their contact information.
Advocate tip: A passenger in your vehicle cannot be considered an eyewitness.
- Use your Smartphone to take photos of the accident. Make sure to take photos of your vehicle, their vehicle, and the surroundings of the accident.
Advocate tip: Since young drivers have a tendency to get nervous in an accident, it may be a good idea to take pictures of the other driver’s license, license plate, and insurance card so they don’t forget to write them down.
- Record the details of the accident. Write down the time, date, location, and weather conditions, as well as what you remember regarding how the accident occurred.
- Call us and discuss what happened in the accident. We will help you to file the claim with your carrier and tell you the proper steps to take.
As your insurance Advocate, we want to keep you informed on what to do in the event of an accident. If you are a new driver or have a new driver in your family, feel free to have them call us for a tutorial.
