While no one wants such to occur, accidents do happen. The problem is when it does, many approach things with a chaotic view – this doesn’t help. It often complicates the situation and could lead to an unwarranted loss of lives. Since there is always that possibility of an accident taking place, being prepared is the only way to deal with the situation.

In this article, we have put together some essential tips which should put you in a pole position to handle an accident when the challenge arises.

Everyone understands the importance of having an insurance policy should in case things go awry. But possessing an emergency kit is just as important. It could save a life and make a daunting situation typical of a car accident less scary.

The emergency kit usually contains:

  • First aid kit
  • Tools which make getting out of a badly battered car possible
  • Reflective triangles to inform other road users of the situation

Below are the steps to take when in an accident:

Calm Your Nerves

During an accident, there’s always someone who is blamed for the misfortune. This often pits individuals against one another in a situation where they need to do things as a united front. To effectively deal with issues in an accident, being focused is the way to go. But you wouldn’t achieve this by fighting with others involved.

Confirm the Wellbeing of All Those Involved

Your wellbeing and those of other individuals involved in the accident takes precedence over everything. You need to ask questions and if anyone’s attitude indicates something is wrong, call the emergency service numbers. Many victims of accidents are often unresponsive to questions so the best thing to do is to get help for them.

If everyone appears okay both mentally and physically, taking them to safety is the next step. Staying in an accident spot is both risky and unwise. You and everyone in your company should find solace on the side of the road. If your vehicle wasn’t badly damaged, consider moving it away from the road to reduce the traffic gridlock often associated with accidents.

Moving your car is one thing but it doesn’t end there. Ensure you get every road user informed of the precarious situation involving you and the other occupants of your vehicle. This is where the reflective triangles in your car become useful. You place it some inches in front and behind your vehicle so other road users can understand the situation.

‘The Police is Your Friend’

This is a popular slogan for this group of law enforcement. And you will need to apply this in the event of an accident. Speaking to the police if you’re caught up in an accident is the wise thing to do. The advisable division to talk to remains that in charge of the vicinity where the accident took place. You will need to complete an accident report. This details required in the report isn’t always the same in every location. They will always demand your driver’s license and registration documents. So, it’s always advisable to have those on you whenever you going with your car.

One common infraction a lot of people are guilty of is jetting off to get on with their normal routine before the police representative makes his appearance to the scene. This is wrong and often paints an unpleasant mental picture of the individual. You should be aware that in the filing of the report, the input of the officer in charge is often noted. If you were absent, the officer could chip that into the report. This dents the credibility of whatever claims you might have made in the report. So, regardless of who you think is responsible for the accident, you might end up bearing the brunt of the entire incident.

You should understand the importance of filling a report. If your insurance provider has doubts about your story, the police report improves your case since the perception is the police represents a reputable third party without any affiliations whatever which could make them appear partial.

Pictures Could Help

No one doubts your mental capacity. But to avoid any contradictions in the future, taking pictures of everything could save you a lot of trouble. Insurance companies are not caregivers. They would do everything to avoid making any payment. This shouldn’t be a surprise since it is just business! So, arming yourself with sufficient proof is the best thing to do. And pictures are probably the best way to do it. Your account of what happened should be consistent at every point in time and those pictures can add color to it. No insurance company will be able to hold back on payment when the report is the thorough and fact-based.

Know your Enemy

If your vehicle wasn’t the car involved in the accident, then getting all information about the owner of the other car would be of tremendous help to your case. Depending on the information available, it could add more credibility to your case. And if not, it would improve your resolve in dealing with the situation. Frankly, see the other driver as your business rival. Even when you are the guilty party, never admit your culpability. It will not only leave you at the mercy of your insurance provider but also makes you liable to court cases.

Visit the Hospital

Accidents are not situations you should take lightly. If you have just been in one getting help is your best option. Yes, you appear great and without any scratch. Why not get an expert’s input as well? Your health should be a major priority for you.

If you observe certain symptoms like:

  • Sore limbs
  • Weakness
  • Painful sensation around your head region

It would be advisable you speak to a specialist to access the situation. Don’t just see any doctor but one with a decent reputation and whom you have no affiliations whatsoever. Your health disappointment could turn out to be a blessing in the case involving your insurance provider. If the doctor provides adequate facts to back up your claims, the insurance company might have no choice than to fulfill their financial obligations.

Billy Miller
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