What Should You Do if You Get in a Car Accident?
When you get behind the wheel of your Toyota RAV4, there is always a risk that you find yourself in a car accident. No matter how it happens – it is important to know what to do in that event. Many new drivers and drivers who have been behind the wheel for years want to know – what should you do if you get in a car accident? Find out with this list of 10 things you need to do after a traffic accident created by OkCarz!
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1. Check Yourself and Passengers for Injuries
The first – and most important – thing to do when you are involved in a car accident is to check yourself and passengers for serious injuries. Do not move if you have any neck or back pain unless there is immediate danger – wait for paramedics and first responders to arrive.
2. Check the Immediate Area
Assess the area and situation around you to make sure there is not any additional danger. Are you in a safe place? Is there a risk of fire? Do what you need to do to ensure that you are safe from additional danger.
3. Move Your Car to a Safe Place
In the event that it is a minor accident, and your vehicle is still operational, it is important to move your vehicle to a safe location and turn on your hazard lights. Do not leave the scene of the accident – wait for first responders.
4. Check On the Driver and Passengers of the Other Vehicle
If there is another vehicle involved in the accident, make sure you check on the occupants of the other vehicle and call 911 if there are any injuries. Make sure to check for traffic when you exit your vehicle.
5. Call Police and First Responders
It is important to have a police report for insurance companies. Contact emergency services immediately after the accident when there are injuries, or the accident is a traffic hazard. Provide police offers with your driver’s license, registration and proof of insurance.
6. Be Aware of Your Emotions
Traffic accidents can lead to many emotions – anger, confusion, frustration and more. Make sure to take a moment and rein in your emotions when you interact with first responders, police and other drivers.
7. Exchange Insurance Information
In the event of a traffic accident – it is required by law – to exchange information with the other parties involved in the collision. Provide your name, address, phone number, email address, insurance company and insurance policy numbers. Take photos of the documents provided for your records.
8. Photograph and Document the Scene
To avoid issues with insurance, it is important to photograph and document the scene. Take pictures of the damage on all four sides of your car, property damage, skid marks, road conditions and anything that may have had an impact on the accident.
9. Visit Your Doctor
With the adrenaline rush that comes with a car accident, it can be easy to overlook any injuries that you may have sustained, and many minor injuries can become major without the right medical attention. Visit your doctor or an urgent care clinic after the accident.
10. File an Accident Report and Contact Your Insurance Company
Following the accident, it is important to file an accident report with the police or with your local DMV office. Accident reports may be available online. Make sure to contact your insurance company to inform them of the accident.
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What should you do if you get in a car accident? Do you know? Here is a list of 10 things to do if you are ever in a traffic accident. Visit the OkCarz online inventory today to find a used car that will fit your budget!
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