The drama and shock of crashing your car can be a little daunting. But you should try to stay calm and take the following steps immediately following a car collision with someone else.
Call Emergency Services if Someone is Hurt
The very first thing you should do is call for help if someone is hurt and you are able-bodied. Of course, don’t put yourself in immediate danger. But stay calm and explain to ambulance dispatch what has happened. They will notify the police. But you can also call your lawyers for expert advice. They can help you with paperwork and dealing with the police. And are especially useful if it was you that caused the accident. Try to stay calm, don’t panic and be honest.
NEVER Leave the Scene
Whether you are to blame or not, the worst thing you can do is leave the scene of the accident. In fact, leaving the scene is a crime in most countries. As such, you could be arrested for doing so. Of course, the police are duty-bound to administer roadside alcohol and drug tests. However, even if you test positive, it isn’t the end of the world. But leaving the scene implies you are guilty of something, and you will be charged with more offenses by the attending police.
Exchange Insurance Details After a Car Collision
Car insurance is mandatory in most countries. Insurance provides financial cover for everyone involved should the worst happen. Yet even in a relatively small country like the UK, experts estimate that around 1 million drivers are uninsured. This is also a contributing factor for drivers leaving the scene or fleeing when pulled over by police. Always have your insurance details handy. However, if the other driver isn’t insured, the process can become challenging.
Secure the Scene if You Can
An incident can be disturbing and distracting for everyone on the roads. And safety is a priority. If you are able, you must secure the scene. For example, you can switch off all engines, make sure there is a safe perimeter if there is a fire or fuel spillage, and use road flares to mark the area. This is the right thing to do, and emergency services will appreciate the help. It’s also a good idea to write down exactly what happened while it is still fresh in your memory.
Wait for Authorities to Arrive
Once you have called for emergency services, secured the scene, and everyone is safe, simply wait for help. The response time for road incidents is pretty good in most countries. So hang in there while help is on the way. If you are with others, you can help keep them calm and designate one person to speak for the group, so responders aren’t overwhelmed with adrenaline-fueled accounts of what happened. Also, stay calm and never display aggression.
You probably won’t know exactly what to do after a car collision, and it can be distressing. However, you should call emergency services, exchange insurance details and wait for help.