What You Should Do After a Car Accident

Disclosure - sponsored post.

It can be scary even to just think of the idea of getting into a car accident.  There are so many things that we do to try and avoid car accidents, but sometimes they just happen.  I was in one a few years back with my daughter in the car.  I was rear ended and I was extremely scared.  Luckily, nobody was injured.  That is always my biggest fear.  There are a number of things to do if you are in a car accident to make things easier.  

What You Should Do After a Car Accident. . . . 

A Step by Step Guide

1.  Be prepared - Always keep a copy of your drivers' license and insurance while driving.  You may face fines if you can't offer proof of insurance after an accident.

2.  Stay at the scene - Do not leave the scene of even minor accidents.  Otherwise it is a hit and run, which can carry penalties of $20,000 in some states.

3.  Check for injuries - Your first priority is to make sure that everyone involved in the crash receives appropriate medical attention.  Call 911 for any serious injury and administer first aid.

4.  Ger off the road - If the cars involved are blocking traffic, try to move them out of the way.  But be careful:  If there is damage to the engine or fluids are leaking from the car, don't attempt to move it until first responders arrive.

5.  Call the police - Any collision more serious than scratched paint requires a call to the police.  Some insurance companies require a police report to file a claim.

6.  Describe accurately - When the police ask what happened, tell them exactly what happened from your perspective.  Make sure your side of the story is fully represented.  

7.  Find and interview witnesses - Seek bystanders who saw the crash and get their contact information.  Write down the license plate numbers of motorists who saw the crash so police can find them later.  Rigorous documentation can protect you down the road.

8.  Exchange insurance information - license plate number, address, email address, insurance carrier, driver's relationship to the policy holder and car owner, name, phone number, make/model/year of car, and the insurance policy number.

9.  Exchange insurance information - In addition, get this information from the police officer on the scene. . . .      name, badge number, and police report number.

10.  File an insurance claim - call your insurance company as soon as possible to file an insurance claim.  The sooner you start the process, the faster you'll get your car fixed.

These are some great tips on how to deal with a car accident.  Being in a car accident can really be frightening, but these tips and steps can really help make the situation easier.  I personally think these simple tips and steps would really help in a stressful situation.  I honestly think these are great steps, and I might actually print them out and keep them in my car.  My brain doesn't always function right when I am in panic mode, so this would be great to have on hand when I really need it.  Do you have any tips of your own that help you keep calm when you are in situations like these?