What to Do in the Event of a Car Accident

While you may hope that you will never be involved in a car accident, statistics unfortunately say otherwise.  Insurance industry experts state that the average person files a collision claim approximately once every 17.9 years.  While you may beat the odds, it is always best to be prepared in case an accident occurs.

First, you should be sure your car is stocked with items you may need in case of an accident.  Load your trunk with a safety kit containing a set of traffic cones and emergency flares to use to warn other cars on the road.  Keep a pen and blank paper in your car to write down information.  Make sure to have medical and emergency contact information in your glove box along with your vehicle registration and car insurance information.

If you are involved in an accident:

1)      Always take pictures of the damage to the vehicles and of the accident scene.  Use your cell phone to take pictures.

2)      If possible, move your vehicle to a safe location out of the flow of traffic.

3)      Check to see if anyone involved is injured, and call 911 if necessary.

4)      Contact the police, who will visit the scene of the accident, take statements, and determine if a police report is required.

5)      Exchange names, addresses, and phone numbers with the other drivers, passengers, and witnesses involved.

6)      Obtain insurance information from the other drivers involved. This should include the company and policy number.  Also make note of the year, make, model, and license plate number of each vehicle involved.

After leaving the scene, seek medical treatment immediately if necessary.  Be sure to keep records of any doctor visits and tests pertaining to your accident.  Then, as soon as possible after the accident, you should contact your insurance company to report what happened.  From there, your next call should be to Injury Law on Call 757/282-6800 who specializes in auto accident claims for further advice.