Doing The Right Thing After A Car Accident

Most people think they are good drivers, but no matter how good you might actually be, the chances are you will still have some kind of accident at some stage in your life. 

Regardless of how severe or minor it is, there are rules in place that should always be followed. If you want to make sure the situation is resolved quickly and safely – and with the least amount of hassle – the following pointers will help. 

The first and most important thing to remember is to stop: you are bound by the law to stay until matters are sorted out. This may be as simple as exchanging details with the other driver, if it is a minor prang. Obviously more severe accidents will involve the emergency services, who will take control of the situation. 

It is very important to make sure that everyone involved – in both vehicles, or every vehicle if more were involved – is okay. It’s worth remembering that it is far safer to call an ambulance if you are in any doubt over someone’s health than it is to take a chance on them being all right. This is true even if they say they are fine. 

The same applies to calling the police. For minor accidents it isn’t usually necessary to do so, but if the other driver disappears before you get a chance to exchange details, you should certainly call them. Make sure you get their licence plate if this should happen, as the police will then be able to trace the vehicle. 

Remember also that the best time to record all the details of what happened is right then and there. If you leave it until later you will not have the actual location to remind you - jot down everything you can and take the time to do it properly. 

It’s also vital to try and stay as calm as you can. It’s all too easy to get into an argument about the accident with the other driver, but this doesn’t do either party any good. Be sure you don’t say sorry or admit that it was your fault, though. This might sound rude but if you do it may complicate matters when you come to claim. 

It is clearly important to make sure all your paperwork is in order at all times. For example, always make sure your accident insurance cover is in date, just in case you should ever need it. 

In the end, no one likes to be involved in an accident. We all hope we’ll make it through our driving lives without having one, but it’s good to know what you need to do just in case, as it sets your mind at rest and puts you in a much better position.