Road accidents can happen when you least expect it, even if you're careful and cautious drivers. When it does happen, even a minor accident can leave you confused and traumatized.
Steve Landers Auto Group offers tips to remember if you are in an accident.
First, never underestimate the power of planning ahead. Buckle your seatbelt, make sure that your car is equipped with airbags and other safety features, and have an Accident Preparedness Kit. Items to put in this kit includes a small notepad, a sharpened pencil or pen, a small flashlight, and a camera or a fully charged phone for accident documentation purposes.
Remain calm and check for any injuries. Check yourself for injuries first, even if it's only minor. Once you are OK, check on your passengers. If there are injuries, call 911 immediately. Then, check your surroundings for any signs of smoke, a gas leak or downed power lines. If there’s one, get out of the car immediately.
Try to move your car out of the road to prevent blocking other cars. If the car can still be driven due to a minor incident, turn on your hazard flashers when doing so. If the engine won’t start anymore, keep your hazard flashers on and get out of the vehicle safely into a location off the roadway.
Call the police. Remain at the accident scene until they arrive. Explain to the dispatcher about the situation and give important details including the extent of injuries.
Document the accident. Get names, addresses, and contact numbers of all the people involved, any witnesses, and the police officers and respondents. Take photos of the scene using a camera or your cell phone.
Finally, report the accident to your insurance company, if applicable.
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