What To Do After A Car Crash

It’s a situation in which no one wants to find themselves but a situation for which one must be prepared. No, we’re not talking about a visit from one’s mother-in-law; rather, we’re talking about a car crash. Despite being a safe, careful, and conscientious driver, it isn’t impossible for random calamity to strike out on the open road – and it may not even have been of one’s own making.

Being in a car crash can be overwhelmingly stressful, so it can help to have a checklist of what to do in case the unthinkable happens whilst behind the wheel. These incidents are often emotionally charged and volatile, making it even more important to put safety as the first consideration when picking up the pieces after a wreck.

AutoGuide.com thanks Toyota Insurance for sponsoring this insurance series

If possible, move to a place of safety, one which is away from the crash site and far as possible from any traffic flow in order to avoid further danger. Of course, use one’s own good judgement here and make sure any action being taken isn’t putting others (or yourself) in harm’s way.

Assess the condition of vehicle occupants who were involved in the incident. It may be necessary for someone in the immediate party or a bystander to alert EMS if there are injuries; any doubt in one’s mind regarding the health and well-being of persons in the car should be left to professionals who have trained for the precise moment. Police intervention may be necessary depending on the severity and nature of the crash, so try to alert them as well. A phone call though the 911 service may accomplish both tasks, though rural areas may require a different method of contact. Once the emergency services are on the scene, follow their instructions to the best of your current ability especially in terms of care.

Despite the hyper-charged nature of a car crash, marked by frayed nerves and emotional distress, try and have the presence of mind to document as much of the incident as possible right there in the moment. Even the most mindful person is likely to forget details of the incident in such a stressful environment, making the creation of an immediate record all the more important. As much as one thinks they will be able to recall minute details of a situation, it is better to leave nothing to chance by creating a trail of notes and (ideally) detailed photos.

If a functional smart device is handy, photograph some particulars of the scene, paying attention to vehicle damage and other property destruction. Make a note of license plates, other vehicles in the area, and potential witnesses. Use your good judgement and determine if it is safe to directly engage the other driver(s) based on their appearance or temperament. They may be injured or not able to communicate clearly – and remember, not everyone handles stress in an appropriate manner. It’s important to watch out for one’s own personal security. If safe and suitable to do so, exchange necessary information such as insurance details with those people. In this situation, it is not selfish to prioritize one’s own safety.

It's also wise to choose your words carefully after an accident. “Do not apologize or discuss who was at fault with the other driver as this might be used against you later. Leave the investigation of fault to the police and to the insurance company.

Finally, make sure to promptly report the claim to your insurance agent. Experienced professionals can help make sure one has submitted the details required to proceed with the claim action and will ask questions pertinent to the situation. It helps to have a calm voice and steady hand in toweringly stressful situations like these; if that voice knows the situation inside out and can help smooth the response after a car crash, then so much the better.

Dealing with an incident of this type can be nerve-wracking but your insurer can help a person navigate the post-crash tasks and get drivers back on the road to recovery.