As a driver, it’s important to recognize the chances of getting into a car accident, even a fender bender. Having a clear idea of what to do in those critical seconds is a big help, not only for your safety but also for your insurance process and general well-being.
Discover the most important “do’s” and “don’ts” to remember while driving in Phoenix.
What To Do: Your Immediate Action Plan
Above all, your safety is the first priority. These steps are your immediate safety guide:
Take a deep breath and assess the situation. Check for injuries. Even minor pains can be symptomatic of something more serious. Call a paramedic.
Try to move your vehicle to a secure location, like the side of the road or the parking lot next to you. Leaving your car in the middle of a Phoenix street can lead to further accidents.
Turn your hazard lights on to alert other motorists about the accident, giving them ample warning to slow down and proceed cautiously.
With the immediate safety concerns resolved, it’s time to get the details. For example, exchange information carefully; this is where good communication comes in handy.
Politely and calmly get the following details from all the drivers involved:
- Full names and addresses
- Phone numbers
- Insurance company names and policy numbers
- Driver’s license numbers
- License plate numbers of all the vehicles involved.
If there were witnesses to the accident, get their contact details. A car accident lawyer in Phoenix, AZ, can get in touch to collect witness statements.
Record the Scene
Document the scene with your smartphone or always keep a digital camera handy. Note the positions of the vehicles before they were shifted (if necessary). Take photos of the vehicular damage from every direction, including surrounding areas like road signs, traffic lights, lane markings, and obstructions.
Write down any important details, such as time of day, local weather, road conditions, and direction of travel for each vehicle.
Contact the Police and Your Insurance Company
Call police to the scene to assess injuries, extensive property damage and to talk to you and other involved parties. An official police report is invaluable to your insurance claim. Be cooperative with the authorities and respond truthfully to their questions.
Inform your insurance company early, and don’t delay. They will guide you through the claim process. Be cooperative with your insurance adjuster and provide them with all the information and documents you’ve gathered.
See your doctor right away. Some accident injuries, including whiplash and concussions, are symptomologically delayed. Log every detail about treatments, treating physicians, diagnosis, and any associated medical expenses.
What NOT To Do: Avoiding Preventable Accidents
It’s just as important to know what not to do after a car collision in Phoenix. These actions will complicate your claim and damage your case:
Never leave the scene of an accident; it’s illegal and can hurt your case. Remain at the scene after exchanging information and talking to the police. Then, you may get the okay to leave.
This is a crucial one. Never say anything like “I’m sorry” or “My fault.” The most harmless apologetic words can be taken as an admission of fault and then used against you later on. Be a stickler for facts when dealing with the other driver and police officer.
Don’t give statements to other drivers’ insurance companies without speaking with an attorney. The other driver’s insurance adjuster may be contacting you soon. Be courteous, but don’t give them a recorded statement or sign away rights without consulting your own firm or an attorney first. They will attempt to keep their payment to a minimum.
Don’t make a post on social media regarding the accident. Whatever you post, even apparently harmless comments, can be taken out of context and employed against you in a claim or suit.
Some injuries are not apparent at first glance. Don’t downplay pains or aches. Seek expert medical evaluation to see whether you have suffered from any hidden injuries.
Safety First, Always
It is traumatic to be involved in an auto accident, but knowing what to do and what not to do allows you to get through it and handle the aftermath better. Have this guide handy, Phoenix drivers, and remember to remain calm and follow these steps.
