What To Do Immediately After a Car Accident

Car accidents happen, even to cautious drivers. Being involved in a car accident is a traumatic experience which can cause shock and anxiety. It’s important to stay calm and focussed. There are things you can do to protect yourself if you do experience a car crash.

Here are ten simple things to do directly after an accident.

1. Check Yourself. Assess yourself and any passengers for possible injuries. If any of you are injured, call an ambulance right away.

2. Get Moving. If it was a minor accident, quickly move all the vehicles out of the flow of traffic. If your vehicle cannot be moved then be sure that you and your passengers are positioned at a safe distance until help arrives.

3. Exchange Information. Ask for the name, phone number, address, car insurance company and policy number, license plate and driver’s license number of the other driver. If the other driver is not the owner of the car, make sure you get the information for the car owner as well.

4. Stay Calm. Do not say that the accident was your fault or apologize. Be positive. Do not engage in arguing with the other driver.

5. Take Pictures. If you have a camera available like on your phone, take some pictures of both vehicles. This can protect you from any fraudulent claims from others involved.

6. File a Report. Call the police and let them know about the accident even if they have not come to the scene. Filing a police report can speed up your insurance claim.

7. Stay Put. Do not leave the scene of the accident before police officers arrive. Be sure that you have all the information you need before you leave.

8. Call Your Car Insurance Company. Know what your policy covers and give the details of the accident to the best of your knowledge soon afterwards.

9. Visit Your Doctor. Some injuries might not be apparent right away. It’s a good idea to have an examination in case you have internal injuries or other issues.

10. Hire a Lawyer. Even an accident that looks simple can become complicated. A personal injury lawyer can represent your interests in any dispute.

If you have had an accident and are looking to buy a newer car, you can donate a non running car to charity. Your old car can help someone with kidney disease have a better life.

Help improve lives and donate your vehicle today.
We accept vehicles even if they no longer are running, as long as they have a title.
There is no cost to you, simply call us at 800.488.CARS (2277) or complete our online form.
Then schedule a pick up time that fits your schedule. You can make a difference in the lives of millions with kidney disease.