What to do During a Car Accident
Stop
When involved in a crash, however slight, do not leave the scene until speaking with the other driver, the police, or both.
Remain Calm
Remain as calm as possible, avoid any inclination to react in anger, particularly when encountering another driver behaving irrationally.
Safety First
When involved in a minor accident with no serious injuries, move the vehicles and occupants safely to the side of the road, out of the way of traffic. If a vehicle cannot be moved and no injuries have occurred, drivers and passengers should remain in the vehicle with seatbelts fastened until help arrives. Turn on your hazard lights.
Call 911 for Medical Assistance
Call for emergency medical help if anyone involved in the crash is bleeding, feels lightheaded, or is suffering any physical injury. Always err on the side of caution and call for help. Unless someone at the scene is specifically trained in emergency medical procedures, wait until professional help arrives before attempting to move a person or perform emergency aid.
Call The Police
Calling the police from the crash site is the best action. If the driver cannot contact the local law enforcement, he or she should instruct someone else to do so. Police officers can address traffic infractions and take notes for the incident record.
Don't Admit Fault
Do not discuss specific details of the accident with anyone except the police. Be polite, but don’t admit fault to the other driver or the police.
Photograph & Document The Accident
Include photos that reveal the overall context of the crash — road conditions, intersection site, traffic signs or lights, etc.
Record in writing all pertinent information concerning the incident, including:
- The Incident — The time and date, a description and exact location of the accident scene, and any recollection of your vehicle’s handling or mechanical functioning immediately prior to the crash.
- Involved Parties — Names, addresses, telephone numbers, vehicle and driver’s license numbers, and insurance carriers.
- Witnesses — Names, addresses, and contact information.
- Police Officers — Names, badge numbers, where to obtain a copy of the police report, and issuance of any citations.
The descriptions of coverages listed in this article are brief and subject to the provisions, limitations, and exclusions that can only be expressed in your policy and related endorsements.For additional information of how Swingle Collins & Associates can assist in meeting your coverage needs, please contact your dedicated risk manager. The information contained in this article is provided for informational and educational purposes only. It contains general information on insurance issues and may not reflect the most current developments in insurance coverage and is unlikely to apply in all factual scenarios. The information does not include all the terms, coverages, exclusions, limitations or conditions that may be contained in the actual insurance contract language. The policies themselves must be read for those details. Sample policy forms will be made available upon reasonable request. Thank you.
