One of the worst things about driving cars is the number of accidents that happen on our roads every day. 1.35 million people die around the world every year from road accidents, that works out to be around 3,700 every single day. The shocking number doesn’t even take into account those who are left with long term disabilities. It is estimated that 20-50 million people suffer non-fatal injuries from cars every year. Do you know what to do if you are involved in an accident?
While you may be an incredible driver and you may be incredibly careful, you could still easily be in an accident someday. The fact is that on a road, there are many cars, not just yours. For something to go wrong only one person has to make a small mistake. That small mistake could take a life but if you are lucky it will just leave you with a damaged car and some small injuries. Whatever happens, you should know the steps to take if you are involved in a car accident.
The moment a crash happens, stop your car as quickly as you can in a safe place. If the crash happens in the middle of the road it may cause traffic issues but you should still get out and take some pictures, talk to the other driver and make sure they are ok. If it is not your fault then do not apologize. An apology is an acceptance of guilt and can be used against you in court. Just check if they are ok.
If the car is still able to be driven you can take both cars to the hard shoulder or side of the road to allow traffic to pass more easily. If the cars are no longer working then call the police and await their instruction. Whether the car is on the side or middle of the road, turn on the hazard lights.
Take some deep breaths. Car accidents are scary and your adrenaline will be pumping. Try and calm down and evaluate the situation. Take pictures of your car from all sides, take pictures of the other car from all sides. Ask the person if they have any injuries and note down what they say. If anyone has any injuries then call the police or an ambulance immediately.
Calling the police is a decision you and the other driver should make together. Talk to the driver and in general call the police if anyone flees the scene, this is a crime. If the other driver has no insurance or is under the influence of drugs or alcohol, call the police. You may be feeling sympathetic at this moment but if they sober up and try to pin the blame on you, you will have nothing but your word against them. Finally, if you think the driver crashed on purpose you should call the police as well.
Whenever a crash happens people always say “let’s exchange details”. The details they mean are the names and addresses of everyone involved, any injuries they report, and their insurance information. You should also take note of any other people involved or witnesses who were there. Finally take detailed notes of the crash, the time, the date, the location, the weather, the setting, the damages, and anything else you can. Pictures will be really valuable here. While these things may not seem important they may be vital if you are making a claim to your insurance provider.
It is best to tell your insurance company about the crash even if you decide not to make a claim. If the other driver makes a claim against you it is good to have it on record already. Today there are many hustles that take place where people try to orchestrate accidents to get money from your insurer or you. Ensure you are vigilant at all times and consider a dash camera for extra protection.
