Dealing With the Crash

Losing control as you hear the sound of smashing glass and crunching metal is a breathless feeling.  Trying to make coherent thoughts after the fact is practically impossible.  It is important that you understand how to handle a wreck and what you need to do before it happens.  Then you will be able to maintain some focus during the chaos.

1. Call emergency vehicles-  No matter what is requested and no matter how “little” the accident you will want to have police (and possibly and ambulance) to check out the scene.
2. Get insurance information-  Share your information with the others involved in the accident and get their information as well (including tag numbers and license number).  You may not need the information, but you will be grateful that you did take the time to get it if you do need it.
3. Take pictures – of the vehicles, of the scene and from a number of different angles.  If you have a cell phone with a camera then that will work.  But you might be better off keeping a disposable camera in your vehicle for just such occasions.  Be sure to replace the camera on a regular basis so that the film in the camera does not go bad.
4. Ask for the names and addresses of any witnesses that may have seen the accident.  Although the police will likely get this information as well, it is always better to be safe than to be sorry.
5. Call your insurance company-  The sooner you let them know about the accident the quicker they will be able to start the claims process.

Know what to do before an accident happens so that you don’t get lost in the chaos IF one happens.