What Should You Do After An Accident?
With more and more police departments no longer responding to minor, non-injury car crashes, drivers should be more diligent about properly recording every aspect around a traffic accident. Are you aware of what you should be documenting if you are involved in a crash? Here is a list of the proper actions to take.
- Remain calm. Being in an accident can be a traumatic event. The first thing you have to do is to make sure you are okay, and that you remain calm and clear-headed.
- Move over, if possible. When conditions permit, move onto the shoulder or side of the roadway to prevent further damage and hazards. Place warning signals or signs promptly.
- Check on others. Once you are clear that you are okay, and have moved out of other potential harm (if possible), ensure that everyone else involved is okay and there are no injuries. If there are injuries, summon medical assistance immediately. Repeat the call after five minutes if no help arrives. Do not administer first aid, unless you are qualified to do so.
- Never admit fault. Do not accept responsibility or apologize for anything.
- Again, keep calm. Be courteous and don’t argue.
- Exchange information with the other party / parties. Obtain the names and addresses of all persons involved in the accident. Driver’s license number, insurance information, and contact information are the pertinent information. If possible, take photos of the driver’s license and insurance card.
- Take photos of the accident scene and damage to vehicles. Be sure to get photos of the accident scene, vehicle damage and any other property damage from both close-up and from a distance. If possible, note any previous or existing damage to the other vehicle(s), and take photos of that previous damage.
- Take notes. As time passes details are forgotten. After the accident write down how the accident occurred as soon as possible.
- Speak to any witnesses. Obtain the names, addresses and phone numbers of all persons involved in the accident, along with Driver’s license number and insurance information.
- Review photos and notes. Before leaving the accident scene, make sure you have all the facts.
If you have any questions, please feel free to give us an e-mail or call (865-546-0761) today, and we will happily help you.