You’re sitting at a stoplight, or making a turn, when suddenly out of nowhere – BAM! Everything inside the car goes flying as your grip on the steering wheel tightens and you sit there in a fog wondering what the heck just happened. Sound familiar? Hopefully not, but odds are, you will be in a car accident at some point in your life. And when you are, logic often flees. Following this advice on what to do and not do at the scene of an accident can help make the experience less stressful.
After an accident, DO:
- Assess injuries – If anyone is in need of immediate medical attention, call 9-1-1.
- Call the Police – No matter how much damage there is, or what story the other party gives you, ALWAYS call the police. It’s vital to have that third party figure out liability.
- Call a tow truck – If the collision was minor and the car is driveable, then move it after clearance from the police. If you’re not sure of the extent of the damage, call for a tow truck. You may damage your car more by driving it.
- Call the insurance company – The liable party’s insurance company will initiate the claim. If you are at fault, contact your insurance company. If the other party is at fault, have them call their insurance company.
- Take photos at the scene – These will help in proving liability.
- Get witness statements – This isn’t always possible because everyone is always in a hurry to get on their way, and you’re not thinking about getting license plate numbers when you have to deal with your own vehicle. But if someone is at the scene who can summarize what happened, get their contact information.
- Get a copy of the accident report – If the officer doesn’t give you one at the scene, write down the name, badge number and agency of the law enforcement officer who responds to your crash, and the report number. You can follow up with the appropriate law enforcement agency a day or two later.
- Choose your own body shop – You have the right to choose who you want to repair your car. Don’t be pressured by the insurance company to use one of the shops on their ‘preferred’ list. ‘Preferred’ often means subpar repairs, because they want to keep costs down.
- Cooperate with your insurance company – If you have to make a claim with your insurance company, answer all questions truthfully and provide them with any information they need.
After an accident, DON’T:
- Drive away from the scene – your legal troubles could be worse, especially if you’re at fault.
- Move your car – Unless the police advise you to do so. They may need photos or evidence from the scene of the accident.
- Dismiss your health – Internal injuries can manifest a day or two after the accident. Those aches and pains should be taken seriously. Follow up with a physician.
- Lose your temper – Emotions run high when your expensive new car is damaged. Stay calm and don’t let your temper overtake sensibility. You might do or say something you regret.
- Admit fault or assign blame – That’s for the police to sort out after getting statements from both drivers and any witnesses.
- Negotiate with the other party’s insurance company – This is often a ploy to try and get you to admit liability (when it’s not your fault) or to get you to settle for less than you deserve. Contact a lawyer if necessary.
Remember, YOU can choose the shop of your choice after an accident. Make it Sharp Auto Body. Just give us a call at 847-526-1343.
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