You’ve been in a minor crash. This can be a scary and stressful situation. Your mind is going in a million directions and you’re wondering what to do next. Here are some things to consider if you’re involved in a minor car crash:
Pull Over. If possible, safely pull over to the side of the road, making sure you don’t block traffic before parking your car. Warn oncoming traffic by turning your hazard lights on. If you can, stop in a well-lit public place. If you damaged a parked vehicle, try to find the owner. If you can’t find them, write your name, address, and phone number on a note that can be left under their windshield wiper. Before leaving the parking lot, notify the police.
Check for Injuries. Even in minor car crashes, you can never be too sure. If you or your passengers have been hurt, call 911 right away. Don’t attempt to give first aid unless you have been properly trained to do so.
Gather Information. Exchange car insurance and personal information with the other driver involved. You should get and provide the following: name, address, license plate number, and insurance company names and addresses. You should also take pictures of the crash scene and zoom in on any damage to your car and the other car.
Get a Police Report. Even if no personal injuries are evident and there is only minor vehicle damage, it’s a good idea to call the police. By bringing in a neutral third party to document the accident, you ensure all information is accurate and accounted for.
Contact Your Insurance. Notify your insurance company with detailed information about the crash as soon as you can. They will advise you on how to fill out a claims form and what repair shops you can visit if your car has any damage.
If you ever find yourself in a minor car crash, take it as a lesson learned. Take time to think about how and why it happened and how the situation can be avoided in the future.