Car accidents happen all the time. However, many individual drivers suffer from less than a handful of collisions in their lives.
Being prepared for an accident can help many drivers stay safe. Here’s what you should do if you’re in a car accident:
1. Move your vehicle somewhere safe
After an accident, it may help to move a vehicle out of the road. A car that’s blocking the road may cause more accidents. People may only be able to move their car if their vehicle is still operational. If a car can’t be moved, then it may help to turn on the car’s hazard lights.
2. Call the police
Drivers should call the police soon after an accident. The police should make a report of the accident, which can be used for insurance purposes. Some drivers will try to avoid reporting an accident, but this could lead to fines and incarceration if someone is injured.
3. Exchange info with the driver
While drivers wait for the police, it may help to exchange information. Drivers may want to take pictures of driver’s licenses, insurance cards, phone numbers and license plates.
4. Get medical help
When the police arrive, there may also be an ambulance. Drivers should consider getting a medical examination even if they don’t feel hurt. The adrenaline from the accident may hide and mask the pain of even serious injuries. A medical report could help if a driver starts to develop medical issues from an accident.
5. Take pictures
Drivers may also benefit from taking pictures of the accident. While the pictures may not be used, they could be helpful if the other driver or the insurance company reports that the damages were or weren’t as bad as the driver said.
6. Understand your legal rights
In many cases, drivers don’t get enough compensation for the injuries and damages they’ve suffered. It can help people to learn their legal rights to get properly compensated.
