Every driver thinks that they will never be involved in an accident. However, the reality is that almost everyone who ventures out onto the road will find themselves in a fender bender at least once in their life. For this reason, it is important to be prepared for the unexpected. Here are four tips that will help ensure you are ready in case you find yourself in a car accident.
Notepads
Keep a notepad in your car at all times. This will be handy when you are trying to take down details about the other person who was involved in the accident. It is important to get their car make and model, license number, insurance number, name, address and phone number written down. Even if you are involved in an accident where the other person drives away, you can jot down their car make, model and the license plate number.
Camera
Have a camera handy at all times to take a picture of the situation. You can also use your smartphone camera for this. Take a picture of where the accident took place, the damage done to your car, damage done to the other car, and the other car’s license plate.
The biggest type of car insurance fraud occurs when drivers attempt to overplay damage done to themselves or their car. By having pictures, you will be able to produce a visual of the situation right after the accident.
Write Everything Down Afterwards
Besides the other driver’s information, it is important to have a detailed account of the events that transpired. People make the mistake of thinking their memory will suffice, but memory of details can be vague even a few days later. As soon as you get home, write down everything that happened. Start with a few minutes before the accident, what the road situation was, whether you or the other driver made a mistake that lead to the accident, and mention if there were any bystanders who were hurt as a result.
A lawyer really helps this process out a lot – they know the ins and outs of paperwork, what you need to know about the accident, and they can help you get a settlement if you were injured. Get in touch with a good lawyer, like those at Bronson Jones & Co, and you’ll be set.
Do Not Run Away
The worst thing a driver can do after a car accident is run or drive away from the scene. Not only does this mean someone else has to deal with your car, but it creates a headache for the other party involved in the accident. Even if your insurance has expired, or you have very little insurance, it is better to be up front about the matter instead of shirking your responsibilities.
Being in a car accident is almost inevitable if you are a regular driver. Instead of being in denial about that fact, following the four tips listed above means you will be prepared for the worst.