Here’s hoping you never get into a car collision. In case it ever happens to you, though, here are four points to keep in mind.
1. Be Prepared
Keep an emergency kit in your car. A little first-aid box can come in handy. Also, of course, make sure you have your car insurance information printed out, as well as your vehicle registration and driver’s license
2. Get Everyone to Safety
Check to make sure everyone is okay, physically. Physical safety is your 100% priority. Call 911 pronto if anyone is injured. If anyone is not sure if they are okay… assume that they are not, and call 911 anyway. If people are okay, then you should all move to the shoulder of the freeway or the sidewalk. You do not want to stand in the way of oncoming traffic, which can put you all at risk for more severe injuries.
3. File Police Reports
Flag down a police officer, or call one. They will ask you to fill out an accident report. Make sure to ask the officer for a copy of the report. The officer’s opinion may come in handy if there is a future dispute between you and the other driver regarding the facts of the situation.
4. Take Notes and Photos
Take photos of damage to each vehicle. Take photos of any injuries. And don’t forget to snap some shots of the surrounding area – it may be called upon when you explain in court how the collision occurred. Also write down (or type) a first-hand account of exactly what happened, exactly as you remember it. Capturing this explanation at the scene is essential, as it is easy to forget important details.