Even a minor car accident can be a stressful situation for Vineland drivers. However, knowing what to do after a car crash is essential. When you’re shaken up, it can be difficult to think about your next steps, so it is a good idea to be prepared in advance. The team at Volkswagen of Salem County has created a guide below that explains what to do after a car accident.
What to Do After a Car Accident Checklist
Minor Accidents
What is considered a minor car accident? Two examples are a fender-bender at an intersection or someone backing into your car in a parking lot. It is still important to know what to do in this situation even if the damage is not serious:
- The most important step is checking to see if you or your passengers need medical attention. If this is the case, you will want to call an ambulance as soon as possible.
- If you and your passengers are okay, pull over where it is safe to do so. You don’t want to travel too far from where the accident actually occurred, but you also don’t want to block traffic.
- Call the police. Contact the authorities even if the other driver involved says it’s not necessary. It is in your best interest to have an official report on file, and your insurance company may require it.
- Exchange contact information. Exchange phone numbers, email addresses, and the insurance policy information of the other driver(s) involved. Remember to also get a photo of everyone’s driver’s licenses, license plate numbers, and insurance cards. Were there any witnesses to the collision? If so, ask them for their contact information as well.
- Document your vehicle’s damage. Take detailed photos of any damage to all vehicles involved. If you are able to get a photo of the accident scene, it can be very beneficial to do so.
- Call your insurance provider. Provide them with the details of the accident as soon as possible so that the claims process can begin.
- Call 911 right away. If there are serious injuries, call emergency personnel or have someone call on your behalf right away. The police will likely arrive with an ambulance to assess the scene. If your injuries are very serious, you may not be able to document what happened at the time. That is why it is important to follow up to ensure you have all the necessary information.
- Contact your insurance provider. You want to still follow up with your insurance company even if a claim was previously filed on your behalf by someone else. It is important to provide them with as much information as possible so that everyone is compensated correctly.
- Follow up with your physician. If you’re still feeling any pain after the accident, visit your physician as soon as possible.
- Your insurance policy number
- Detailed description of how the accident occurred
- Date, time, and location of the accident
- All the collected contact and insurance information from other involved parties
- Name of the police department involved, as well as the police report number (if applicable)