Hopefully your doing all you can on your part to avoid accidents, but they do happen. After the initial shock and surprise it can be pretty hard to remember what to do next. Â Our friends at GEICO Powersports reminded us that sometimes in the confusion of the moment, you may forget a few things. Consider printing this accident checklist and storing it in your car. That way, you’ll have a handy reference for what to do if you’re involved in a fender-bender.
Take Safety Measures
Stop your vehicle and move it to a safe nearby location.
Check to see if anyone is injured. Call 911 for medical assistance.
Do not leave the scene of the accident.
Make sure everyone involved moves to a safe location.
Contact the police. They will let you know if an officer needs to be present at the scene.
Collect Information
Exchange contact information with everyone involved, including:
Name
Address (including email)
Phone number(s)
Get the following information about all vehicles involved:
Year, make, and model
License plate number
Insurance carrier
Insurance policy number
Gather contact information from any witnesses at the scene, including:
Name
Address (including email)
Phone number(s)
If a police officer is present, get the following information from him or her:
Name
Phone number
Police report number
Document the Accident
If you have a camera, take photos of:
Damage to your vehicle
The accident scene
People involved in the accident
Communication Guidelines
Don’t panic
Do not admit fault
Cooperate with police
Remain calm and polite
Prepare for a Car Accident—Before it Happens
If you get into an auto accident, it will help if you have the following items on hand. Make sure to always have these either in your wallet or in your vehicle:
Your insurance ID card
Your vehicle registration
A list of emergency contacts
A medical card listing allergies to any medication, or special conditions
Pens or pencils
A note pad
Flashlight
Flares
First-aid kit
Blanket
Jumper cables
Rags or paper towels
Trash bags
Cell phone
Disposable camera (if your cell phone does not have one.)
If you are prepared, and you know what to do in an accident, it will be easier to remain calm and collected when a mishap occurs.