What To Do After a Car Accident

Stay calm and alert

Your first priority should be the safety of yourself and everyone else involved in or around the accident. Check for injuries and call 911 if necessary. If possible, move out of the way of traffic so that no further accidents happen.

Tensions can get high after an accident, but don’t admit guilt or blame the other driver, regardless of how you feel. Call the police to see if they can send an officer out to take an accident report.

• Move yourself and your car, if possible, to a safe area, like the shoulder of the highway. If you can’t move your car, turn on your hazard lights to warn other drivers.
• Stop and turn off your vehicle when it’s safe. Take a breath to calm yourself, grab anything important if you can, and get out, making sure to watch for oncoming cars. Make sure not to leave the scene of the accident.
• Check on any others involved, including any drivers, passengers, or pedestrians. If anyone is hurt, call 911, even if it seems minor at the time.
• Contact the police. A police accident report can help provide an objective report of what happened when if you need to file a claim. Make sure not to admit fault or blame others at the event, and avoid revealing your insurance policy limitations or coverage.
• Gather and exchange information. Make sure to get all driver and passenger information (names, address, phone number, email address, driver’s license number), license plate numbers, insurance information (company and policy number), the make and model of all vehicles involved, the location and time of the accident, and the name and badge number of any police officers that come. Make sure to take photos of the accident scene if possible to help you during the claim process. If possible, get eyewitness information so they can help during the claim process.
• File your insurance claim. Contact your Henderson Insurance Agent as soon as possible to get the claim process started, and we’ll help you get your car repaired.

Prepare Before The Accident

Keep a safety kit in your car in case of emergencies. You should include items including a first-aid kit, a flashlight, jumper cables, road flares, any necessary medication, and food and water. Make sure to only have nonperishable food items, such as granola bars. Some other items to consider including are a portable smartphone charger and a space blanket or sleeping bag.

Put all your important documents, such as your insurance information, in an area that is readily accessible, like the glove compartment Although some accidents are unavoidable, do your best to prevent accidents by practicing defensive driving and never driving under the influence.

For more information about getting auto insurance, contact Henderson Insurances at (909) 784-2055.