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SpanishAlthough we try consciously to avoid car accidents by driving safely and know that it is much better not to get involved in an accident at all, you may be wondering, what exactly should I do if I’m ever stuck in a car accident? Well, in this blog Fanshawe Driving School of Ontario, will discuss the top 10 things that you should do if you ever get involved in a car accident.
- Remain calm and keep yourself and others safe. Although you may be feeling tense, excited, upset or all three emotions, the absolute worst thing that you can do is run away. Yes, it might feel tempting to drive away but fleeing from the scene of the incident is never a good idea and may bring severe punishments. Instead, you should remain where you are, stay calm and by all means, DO NOT PANIC!!. By maintaining a calm demeanor, you’ll remain in control and will be able to provide the information needed.
- Check out your passengers and report the accident. Check to see if anyone needs medical attention. Call 911 immediately to report the accident and any injury which needs medical assistance. When you reach them, stay calm and speak clearly. Tell them your exact location to make it easy for them to find you. They’ll inform you if they’ll send an officer or whether you’ll need to meet them at the station to file a police report
- Move out of the way. If your car is in a heavy traffic area, you should move out of the way of upcoming traffic. By moving your car, you may be able to avoid another crash. The only exception is when your car is badly damaged and it can’t be moved. If that is the case, simply leave it where it is until you get help.
- Warn other drivers. Warn other drivers about the crash. This can be done by placing emergency flags on the road or by turning on your car’s hazard lights. Another option is to lift the car’s engine. This will signal to other drivers to steer clear of the accident site.
- Never admit fault. Even if you feel that it was your fault, you should never ever admit it to anyone other than your insurance representative or your lawyer. Don’t discuss anything with the other involved driver and never agree to pay for any damages. Keep in mind that anything you say can and will most likely be used against you. Remember – DON’T ADMIT FAULT!!
- Exchange vital information. Exchange vital information with the other driver. Make sure that you get their name, phone number, address, driver’s license numbers of all drivers, date of birth, insurance company information and policy numbers. Also write down the make of their car, model, year, V.I.N. number which will be on their registration paper, license plate and sticker expiration date from the windscreen.
- Witnesses. Obtain the contact information of any witnesses who are at the scene.Also the name and badge number of any officers.
- Detailed diagram. Make a detailed diagram of the accident that includes a picture of involved vehicles before, during, and after the accident. Additionally, if you observe any skid marks, lights, stop signs, etc., make sure that you include them. Last but not the least, if you have a camera or picture phone, make sure that you take snaps as these may be used as proof.
- Fill out a police report. Next, take enough time while filling out the police report. Be as precise and honest as you can and provide them with all required information. Be as specific and detailed as you possibly can.
- Contact your insurance company. After you get connected with the police, get in touch with your insurance company to report the claim. Many policies demand this step to accept your claim and may refuse it if you don’t call at the right time. When you talk to your claim agent, be prepared to give them thorough information about the accident.
In conclusion Fanshawe Driving School of Ontario suggests, no one wants to get involved in a car accident. However, if you are involved in one, don’t get stressed. Instead, you should remain calm. Stay put, don’t admit fault, move away from incoming traffic, report the accident, warn other drivers, exchange vital information, contact insurance company, draw a detailed diagram and fill out a police report. By doing this, you’ll get through a very difficult situation and provide valuable aid when it is needed the most.