When You Have An Auto Accident

A lot of people on the road are as cautious as could be. You look both ways, use your turn signal, and drive defensively. However, for all of your best efforts, auto body accidents still happen.

It’s your job to be ready in case you have an auto accident. Everyone needs to be ready for this situation to occur. No matter how the accident happened, it is your responsibility to be ready to make sure everyone is not injured, call in medics and police, and have the knowledge necessary to avoid the possibility of experiencing monetary or legal troubles later on.

The best defense to avoid any difficulties after a collision is to be ready. As outlined by AAA, “Keeping a writing implement and paper, disposable camera or cell phone camera, and copy of your insurance card readily available all of the time will help keep you organized and reduce stress moments following a collision.”

After stopping your car or truck, Car Craft Auto Body suggests all drivers involved in a car crash stick to these steps:

1. Quickly check with those involved in the collision to determine if there are any injuries. If medical assistance is necessary, call 9-1-1. If medical help isn’t needed, be certain that you’re not in imminent danger at the roadside.

2. Before taking time to exchange information, get to a good place.  If there aren’t any injuries and your vehicle is drivable, safely move to the right or left emergency lane.  Some state laws require drivable automobiles to be removed from the roadway to eliminate traffic congestion. Activate your hazard lights and set out warning flares or reflective triangles. You should never leave the scene of the collision, but find a safe place to remain until emergency services get there.

3. The law demands you notify the authorities. No matter what either party claims, call the cops and file a report. If law enforcement don’t come to the scene to open up an investigation, you can file a report by visiting a local police department or automobile insurance agency in the days after a collision. Having a written report on file might help later if a liability claim is filed.

4. One must always share and gather information with all parties mixed up in the accident, including witnesses. Having this on file will help finish any future paperwork or address possible problems. Car Craft Auto Body suggests that you document:

•   Names

•   Addresses/email address

•   Vehicle Information including makes, models and years for all cars and trucks involved

•   Vehicle identification/license plate numbers

•   Driver’s license numbers

•   Insurance carriers and policy numbers

•   Take photos of the situation, people involved and affected automobiles

5. Your insurance company has to be notified after a crash to start the appropriate claim filing. Many insurance companies have staff available around the clock and can assist immediately. Having proof of insurance in your motor vehicle is required by law and makes processing a claim easier if not at home.

6. You’ve got the right to get your vehicle repaired at the auto body shop of your choosing. Consider taking it to Car Craft Auto Body in St. Louis, Missouri, which also serves Bridgeton, Chesterfield, and Oakville, MO.

7. If you are involved in an accident that involves an unattended automobile or property, take action to tell the owner. If you’re unable to find the owner, attach a written notice of the crash to the automobile or property, making certain to include your contact information and information in the list above.

Drivers and owners of motor vehicles must be willing to assume legal and financial accountability if involved in a collision, don’t let your emotions and feelings get in the way of deciding who’s at fault. Don’t let yourself be compelled into admitting fault or giving an opinion regarding the cause of a crash. If you want, you can talk to a lawyer before giving a statement.

For lots more tips about proper auto body repair or what you should do if there is an accident, get a hold of Car Craft Auto Body in St. Louis, Missouri today!