Terri If you’ve ever been in a car accident, you know just how scary and shocking it can be in the moment. Even if nobody is hurt, it’s a jolt to the system. You likely also understand the importance of acting quickly and calmly, despite what might be going on in your head.
Here are a few bits of advice to help you be a bit more prepared in the event of a car crash.
Get to Safety
The most important thing to do first is to make sure everyone is as safe as possible. If your car is still moving, pull over and turn off the engine. Put your hazards on so other drivers know where you are.
Check for injuries to yourself or any passengers in the car. If possible, exit the vehicle and go to a safe place. If someone else was involved, make sure they’re okay.
Emergency Services
The next step is to get emergency services involved. Police can control the area and keep other drivers safe. The fire department can make sure the vehicles are safe and, if necessary, rescue anyone who might be trapped.
If someone was injured, paramedics can provide first aid and transportation to a hospital.
Even if you don’t think you were hurt, it can still be a good idea to see a doctor shortly after a car accident. Some injuries take a little while to be felt, especially in the heat of the moment.
Exchange Details
The next step is to talk to anyone else involved in the accident. This includes any other drivers, as well as witnesses to the crash.
Get their name, address, contact information, and registration and insurance details. If appropriate and possible, take photographs of the scene. This will help your insurance company determine who was at fault.
Car Repairs
You should also take your car to a mechanic. They can determine the extent of the damage and check if your car is safe to drive.
Some insurance companies offer a courtesy car while your car is being repaired or until you can get a new one. If you need to replace some parts of your car, make sure you get parts that fit the make and model. So, Holden cars require Holden parts, and so on.
The insurance company may be able to cover the costs of repairs. Or, in some cases, you could be better off not claiming and paying the cost yourself. If you were in a small accident involving no other vehicles, the insurance rate increase might be more expensive than the cost of repair.
Coping With Injuries
Unfortunately, injuries are a common side effect of car accidents. This can lead to physical pain and even emotional pain, especially if you’re dealing with anxiety or other stress-related issues due to the accident.
Emotional stress could also be related to the injury itself, as it’s hard to cope with a change in circumstances. Don’t be afraid to speak to loved ones and, if needed, seek professional help.