When it comes to a road accident, you might think you know what to do, but the reality is far from what you imagine. Each accident is unique, and the steps you need to take may vary. Things will be harder especially when you’ve never read an accident guide.
That’s why it’s crucial to know exactly what to do when an accident occurs. How do you handle the situation at the scene? How do you communicate with the parties involved and the tow truck drivers? And, most importantly, what are the procedures to follow when reporting the incident to the police or filing a car insurance claim?
Don’t wait until it’s too late – be prepared and fully informed about the necessary steps to take in case of an accident. Let us guide you on what you need to do at the scene if you are ever involved in a road accident.
Keep Yourself Calm
A sudden accident can trigger panic in anyone, but it’s crucial to stay calm and composed during the aftermath.
If you start to feel overwhelmed, don’t step out of your car right away. Take a few deep breaths and remind yourself that everything is under control. Once you’re feeling a bit more centred, step out and assess the situation
You may be approached by other parties involved, but don’t let them intimidate you. Stay firm and don’t admit fault, even if it’s your mistake. It’s also best to avoid negotiating with them and not accept or offer a settlement without consulting your insurance agent, vehicle insurance company, or Accident Assistance Centre (AACC).
And whatever you do, never sign anything on the spot, no matter how convincing they seem! Remember, keeping a cool head can make all the difference in an emergency.
Assess the situation
When an accident happens, it’s crucial to assess the situation to understand what went wrong. Take a good look at the scene and try to answer important questions like:
- What happened exactly?
- Who was involved?
- How many cars were affected?
- Who’s at fault?
Don’t forget to also check for any traffic violations that might have contributed to the accident. Maybe someone made an illegal turn or crossed a double line? By observing and evaluating the situation carefully, you can help prevent future accidents and make our roads safer for everyone.
Gather information
When you’re involved in an accident, the first step is to gather as much information as possible. This includes the date, time, names of those involved, their ID numbers, phone numbers, driving licenses, and registration numbers of the vehicles.
You can easily take pictures of the scene with your mobile phone, which can be used as evidence later. Don’t forget to move your car to the side of the road to avoid traffic congestion.
Take your time and observe calmly to capture all the necessary details. Remember, this information will help determine who is at fault, so it’s crucial to be thorough.
Contact your insurance agent or hotline
Talking to someone who’s on your side can help calm you down and give you the reassurance you need during this stressful time. They can also give you advice on what to do next and help you arrange for a tow truck to take your car to a nearby repair shop. Remember, help is just a phone call away!
Tow Trucks
Beware of the tow truck mafia! They swoop in fast and furious, trying to convince you to let them take your car to a nearby workshop. These guys can be ruthless, especially if you’re in a vulnerable position after an accident. They don’t give you a chance to think straight and can even put your life in danger.
Don’t fall for their tricks and stay vigilant, so you don’t end up getting ripped off or worse, harmed. Contacting your car insurance company to get the tow truck service is the best option available. So, keep yourself calm and wait for the help to arrive.
Also, keep in my mind that you and the party involved have 24 HOURS since the accident took place to make a police report.
We hope this accident guide has provided you with some insights on what to do in times of emergency. Remember to stay calm and handle things with a clear state of mind.
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