You are too late to turn the wheel and in five seconds, you've made contact with another vehicle. What are the next steps? Unless you've been in an accident before or were sufficiently informed of the procedures to take after an accident, here are 10 steps you'll want to be informed about after an automotive accident:
1. First, go with your instincts; make sure that everyone is fine. If things aren't okay, the next step is to immediately call 911. Other than informing the authorities about injuries or fatalities, the police should immediately be called upon the scene. It is the officer's job to take down your information and hear both of the stories of the accident victims. Most times they'll give both parties a Driver Information Exchange Report. This form has vital information that needs to be noted: car insurance, license numbers, address, phone number, description of vehicle, as well as the VIN number.
2. Deal in facts with the other person. Even in the accident was your fault, it is important for legal reasons to restrain from saying anything that could be considered an admission of guilt, and therefore, liability.
3. Talk with witnesses. It is important to see if others were witnesses to the accident so that you may get their contact information if they are willing to give it to you.
4. Notify your insurance company. No matter whose fault it is, make sure to call you insurance company. One source alleges that it is important to keep a record of the amount of time and money spent on the claim. Also, even if the accident is a fender bender and you discuss the possibility of paying out of pocket with someone, it is important to report the accident anyways. Sources say, since this person is usually a stranger, you don't necessarily know if they are honest. If you agree not to report the accident to your insurance company and the other party reports it to theirs, it looks as if the accident was your fault.
5. Take pictures. Pictures mean factual evidence to present to your insurance company; this automatically creates a better informed case for you. Also, if you have a good quality camera on your phone, it might be beneficial to use if you do not have a camera in your car; there could be disagreements later on between both drivers.
6. Take notes. If you have a modern phone such as a smart phone, the next step is to take notes. If you don't have one but have another means of recording details that need to be remembered make sure it is written down legibly so that you can read it afterwards. This will help you remember these key facts.
7. Ask your insurance company for the damage quota of your vehicle. The damage quote that you should receive for your car essentially will pay to fix the car or, if totaled, the value of the quote will be the money needed to reimburse you for a new car. If you are unhappy with the figure, you may seek other companies' quotes.
8. Call your insurance company should the other party's insurance company contact you. If you contact your insurance company they will know how to handle your claim and your opposition better should they hear of this detail.
9. Don't settle too quickly. Often, if you hold out, should you choose to settle with the other driver, you might be able to be compensated more than the first settlement price. It may seem wiser to settle right away, but the likelihood of someone holding out longer is usually more profitable; the more compensation you receive, the better it is for you vehicle.
10. Seek legal advice. If there are further disputes with your insurance company or the other accident victim, make sure and contact an attorney.