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Sports & Recreation Tips: Auto Accident

It happens when you least expect it to and it can happen anywhere. Auto accident is not an event that we wish for but sometimes it is unavoidable. When it does happen, it is important not to lose control and to maintain composure so that the problem can be resolved in the shortest time possible and with minimum hassle.

An auto accident, whether major or minor, is a traumatic affair. While it is our hope and belief that you would not be involved in anything as traumatic as an auto accident, we hope this list will be of use to you if you ever find yourself in such an unfortunate circumstance. More than instructions to follow, these are guidelines of what needs to be done.

First and foremost, don’t panic. Most auto accidents are abrupt, fast events. Hence it is not easy not to panic. But by panicking, you may only increase the chance of hurting yourself or another person due to a lack of clarity. Especially during an auto accident or immediately after, you need to be in the right frame of mind to deal with the repercussions. So panic is a no-no.

Next, check to see if you and your co-passengers are alright. Check not only for injuries (whether superficial or deep) but also for trauma (both physical and emotional). Because an auto accident is a highly traumatic event, you and your co-passengers may suffer varying degrees of trauma. Identifying the trauma and informing the medical professionals in advance may very well save a life. So check thoroughly.

Next, it might be a good idea to step out of your vehicle to check the extent of damage. Calmly examine the damage caused to both your vehicle and the other vehicle. Although it is difficult to rein your emotions in, try to stay calm and evaluate the damage. As most cell phones nowadays come with in-built cameras, try and capture a photograph of the damage on the spot. This will prove to be useful at a later stage.

Check on the driver and passengers of the other vehicle. Don’t confront them and make the entire episode a blame game. Treat each other with calmness and respect and wait for the authorities to arrive at the scene. While waiting, you can both examine the damage suffered and reach a consensus.

When the police arrives at the scene of the auto accident, calmly and in a composed manner, explain what happened. Do limit your statement to facts alone, as any blame or fault discussions at this stage will not lead to an accurate representation of the facts. Even if it is a minor auto accident, ask to file an on the spot report. Do not leave the scene of the auto accident until the report has been filed.

Before the police and the other party disperse from the scene of the auto accident, do remember to get all the necessary details from them. Collect all the names, numbers, report details and other such critical details when most of the people are present at the scene of the auto accident. These will not only help you in filing your insurance claim, but will also be useful in cases where follow-up with the affected party is required.

Finally, call your insurance agent and wait at the scene of the auto accident till the agent arrives. If possible, also get the other affected person to wait in order that your insurance agent can examine all the parties on the scene of the auto accident. This preliminary information will o a long way in determining the extent of insurance claim you can make.