What to Do in Case of a Vehicle Accident
ď śNothing can ruin a day faster than being involved in a traffic accident. No matter how much we try to avoid them, there are just some days in which your fenderbender number is up. ď śBelow you will find a few pro-tips when dealing with such an accident. Hopefully you will not need them anytime soon, but, just in case.
ď śRegardless if the accident is a minor fender-bender, a front end collision, your fault, or the other guys, there are a few things you need to have in order to avoid a traffic ticket. ď śFor one, always have a copy of your insurance papers. Even if the accident is not your fault, if you do not have proof of valid insurance, you will get a ticket.
Also, make sure your vehicle registration, license plate tags, and driver’s license have not expired. Yes, we all dislike the lines at the DMV, unfortunately it is a necessary evil if you wish to avoid a ticket. More info here: http://www.sslegalfirm.com/blog/caraccident/case-vehicle-accident
ď śSo, now that we can assume you are a safe driver, onto the event at hand. Auto accidents are typically just that, an accident. After being involved in an accident it is important to remain calm. Depending on the severity of the accident, you may not thing police presences necessary. It is always a good idea to call the police after an accident. Let the police figure out who is at fault and create a report. They are, after all, the experts.
ď śIf your vehicle is drivable, drive it to the shoulder of the road. If your car is not drivable, and you can move to a safe distance, do so. ď śIf your accident occurs on the freeway or in otherwise heavy traffic, and your car will not move, it is a good idea to stay seated in your car with your seat-belt on.
ď śAfter the initial accident, and once you peal your fingers off the steering wheel, do the following: 1. Stay on the scene 2. Contact the police 3. Exchange information with the other driver and occupants a) Names, phone numbers, email, and addresses b) Insurance information to include company name, policy number, and phone number
ď ś 4. Document the scene a) Physical location b) Road and weather conditions c) Witness information if any d) Time ď ś 5. Before emergency services leave the scene, find out the following: a) Responding police departments physical location and phone number b) Police report number c) Police officers name and badge number d) Ambulance, fire department, and tow truck companies physical locations
ď śIn 2012 the average collision claim was around $3,000 while the average bodily injury claim was $14,700. Staying calm and collecting the above information may prove the difference in what you may have to pay, if at all.
ď śThough we never plan on getting into a car accident, the potential is always there. Sharing and using the information above will hopefully get you on your way a little faster. Just think, if all goes well, you may be in line for a new car! ď śhttp://www.sslegalfirm.com/