I've Had a Car Accident, What Should I Do First?

First, check to make sure you and any passengers are safe and unhurt, if someone is hurt dial 911 immediately. Second, make sure your car is in a safe place. Move off the road if you can. Don't forget to look carefully before getting out of the car.

If you and your passengers are safe and unharmed, take a deep breath. That is the most important thing, all of you are okay. Next step is to gather some information. Here is a list of things you should write down after an accident with another vehicle:

1. License plate number of all other vehicles involved.
2. Make, model and color of the other vehicle(s).
3. Name and phone number of the driver(s) of the other vehicle(s).
4. Insurance company name and policy number of the other vehicle(s).
5. Date, time and location of the accident.

The above information is a good idea to collect regardless of who was at fault for the accident. Exchange information; make sure to give the other party your contact and insurance info as well. If you'd like to and you have the ability, take a few photos too.

If the other party is acting hostile and you feel uncomfortable, call the police to help you through this instead of getting the info yourself. You can always call the police after an accident, but they may not come out to the scene. Different areas have different laws, but if no injuries are reported or if the accident was on private property they may not show up. It doesn't hurt to ask if you're not sure. If you feel unsafe because the other party involved in the accident is being aggressive, make sure you tell the 911 operator and they will send someone to assist you.

Take a second to regain your composure before driving off. Get to a safe place with a phone, pen and paper handy before calling the insurance company.

Our next post will go over making the insurance claim, stay tuned and happy driving!
Lanni