Car accidents, minor ones, are an all too frequent occurrence. If you have the unfortunate opportunity to be in an accident, you need to be prepared, regardless of whether you are at fault. Immediately after a collision, the first thing you’ll want to do is move your vehicle to a safe location that is out of the way of other vehicles. Remain calm while doing so, and use your emergency flashers to alert other vehicles not involved in the accident that they should proceed with caution. Next, check yourself for injuries before moving to any passengers in your car.
If you and the others inside your vehicle are okay and you are in a safe location, exit the car and check on the occupants of others involved and any impacted pedestrians. Even if an injury is only suspected, err on the side of caution by calling 9-1-1 and requesting medical assistance. Depending on the accident’s severity, you can call 9-1-1 or the non-emergency police number to request an officer be at the scene to file a police report and chronicle essential details.
If possible, you’ll want to have a conversation with the other driver and exchange key information, such as the drivers’ license, insurance cards, and photos of the damage. If you suspect that road rage played a factor in the accident or you do not feel capable of speaking with the other driver calmly, wait for police assistance.
Contact your insurance company as soon after the accident as possible to begin the claims process. At Highpoint Insurance Group in Dadeville, AL, we know the ins and outs of auto insurance and are always there if you need help submitting a claim. For all your insurance needs, let our team be your trusted source.
