A driving accident can happen at any time. You can assume that because you are a fantastic driver you will not have an accident. Wrong. Even the best driver in the world can be hit by a rogue driver. Not everyone on the road is licensed to drive. Not everyone will be fit to drive. And, worst of all, some people will deliberately cause an accident to claim compensation for injuries from YOUR insurance.
So what is the best way to deal with an accident?
1. Security. Your first priority is to ensure that you and your passengers do not suffer any harm. If so, immediately call emergency services and provide them with an exact location. If possible, get close help from someone who may be medically trained. Get to a safe place as soon as possible. Do not meander on a busy road.
2. Witnesses. Remind people who have stopped to watch what just happened. Then ask them for their names and phone numbers. If you can, write down YOUR vehicle registration (if you have one), as this can be helpful if you have been given the wrong phone number by mistake.
3. Photographs. Take pictures of the damage to your car. The other person’s car and any other damaged property. Even a photo of the location can be helpful as it will help you when you go through the insurance company. Street location signage indicating priorities and weather can be helpful when insurers have to evaluate a claim. If you have CCTV in the car, make sure you have blocked the footage. Take pictures of any injuries (if applicable) and … the really helpful one … take a picture (I suggest subtly) of the other driver, as scammers may falsify details later on. Some people may give false names to make false claims. Some people will even add additional passengers to their car (on their insurance claim) to claim personal injury from more people than were actually there.
4. Exchange insurance details. In most countries, such as the UK, it is a legal requirement to exchange insurance details in the event of an accident. You must provide your name, phone number or address or the details of your insurance company, as well as your vehicle registration. Never admit wrongdoing, even if you think it may be your fault. You are not in the right frame of mind to make these decisions.
5. Report the accident. In some countries, such as the UK, you must report any accident involving injury or damage to someone else’s property, including damage to “street furniture” such as street lamps, walls, or signage. If you do not do so within the specified time period, you may be subject to prosecution for separate offenses. Check with local law enforcement agencies as soon as you can to protect yourself. If you suspect that the other person may have been driving illegally (i.e. drunk), call the police immediately, as once the person has left the scene, it can be difficult to prove that they were guilty of such a crime. Also, this can help you with your claim through the insurance company.
6. Check your vehicle. If possible, move your vehicle to a safe place and see if it is still drivable. DO NOT attempt to drive it if it appears to be unfit to ride; have it towed.
7. Report the accident to your insurers as soon as possible. This is usually part of the policy and failure to report it quickly can void it.
8. If it was a very scary accident and then you are afraid to drive again, seek the help of a qualified diving instructor. That’s what they are there for. You can quickly regain your confidence again.