Don’t let the stress of an auto accident get the best of you. Stay calm and follow these steps to tackle the situation head on.
When you get into a car accident, it can be incredibly overwhelming and nerve wracking. To make matters worse, dealing with a car accident requires quite a few steps. While you might know to call the police or exchange insurance information, there are a lot of little steps in between. Make sure you are prepared for the worst by learning the proper way to handle a car accident.
1) Evaluate
Before you do anything, take a second to make sure you’re okay. Check for any injuries and make sure you’re not dazed or dizzy. If your head is feeling kind of fuzzy, this could be a sign of serious head injury.
If you decide you are okay, then park your car in a safe place and exit your vehicle carefully. If there are other people involved (another driver, passengers, bicyclist, pedestrian, etc.), make sure you check on them. Call for medical services if anyone is hurt. If someone is unconscious or has a neck injury, avoid moving them unless absolutely necessary.
2) Call for Backup
If your accident results in damage, serious injury, or death, then you must call the police. Even in minor accidents, a police accident report can help you when you go to file your insurance claim. Once the police arrive, be cooperative but avoid blaming others or admitting guilt. Let the police objectively determine who’s at fault for themselves.
3) Exchange Information
Exchange information such as names, numbers, insurance information, license plate numbers, and so on. Also, make sure you take photos of your car’s damage and the accident scene as a whole. These photos will also help you when you file your claim. Finally, if there are any eye witnesses, talk to them and get their contact information just in case.
4) File a Claim
Get in touch with your insurance company as soon as possible. If you aren’t sure who to contact, your insurance ID card should have your insurer’s contact information. Carefully relate all the details and make sure you’re completely truthful. Lying to your insurance agency can have serious consequences down the line. As your agent helps you file your claim, your photos and a copy of the police report may be helpful.
Learn these steps just in case you are ever in a car accident. Remember, another important way to be prepared is to have the right auto insurance coverage. To find the right auto policy for your needs, contact the experts at Pierce Insurance Group. Our team of professionals is ready to assist you with all your insurance needs.