If you drive a car, motorcycle or basically anything on wheels, at some point or another you will most likely be in an accident. An annoying and unavoidable part of life like taxes and reality TV, car accidents - even minor fender benders - can be extremely stressful and costly. To help you avoid some of the more costly mistakes, we've put together a list of what you should do if you’re ever in an accident.
1) Check for Injuries
First and foremost, you want to make sure everyone is okay. Don’t jump out of your vehicle seconds after impact and start assessing outward damage. Check yourself and your passengers before you do anything else. NO BRAINER ALERT: If you or your passengers have been hurt, call 911.
2) Push Your Car Off the Road
If you and your passengers – and those in the other car – are okay, try pushing the cars off to the side of the road. Other drivers won’t be expecting you to be stopped in the middle of the street, which can lead to even more damage and injury. If you can’t move your car off the road, put your emergency lights on and pop your car’s hood. If you have emergency flags, put those out too.
3) Don’t Say Nothin’
Remember the advice of all the TV lawyers you've watched over the years and try not to say too much. Ask the other parties for their information (name, number, insurance company, license number, plate number, etc.), but after that just wait quietly for the authorities. By staying quiet, you protect yourself from accidentally admitting fault - even if you think the accident was your fault. Simply saying, “I’m so sorry!” immediately after the accident can turn out very costly when the other party claims you openly admitted the accident was your fault.
4) Photograph Everything
Again, this is to protect you from the type of people who keep Saul Goodman-type lawyers in business. So put that smartphone to use and take pictures of both your car and their car. Also, take pictures of any surrounding property that might have been damaged. A picture of the other guy’s plate might also be a good idea.
5) Call Your Insurance Company Immediately
Always consult the Jedis at your insurance company, even when there is minimal to no damage on your car. Most insurance companies recommend contacting them in case of all accidents, no matter how minor. If you fail to report an accident and the other party does, your provider may use this as an excuse to deny your claim. Also, be sure to file an accident report, if the police do not.
6) Bring Your Car to Our Collision Center
Reliable Nissan has a terrific collision center right here in Albuquerque. Our expert service techs have been factory-trained to handle any auto repair you might need, from taking out dents and scratches to larger restoration projects. Contact our service center today!
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