An accident is always a stressful event, no matter how serious it is. During and after the event, it may not hit you that the accident has actually happened. However, you can be prepared for what to do in the event that an accident happens in the event that you are a driver.

Store your vehicle with these items that can come in handy in the event of an accident:

• A first-aid kit that will let you tend to small cuts, bruises or bumps
• Pen and paper: For a way to record insurance information at the scene
• Camera: These days many of us have cell phones with cameras built in, but if you don’t a camera is a good thing to have to document any damage done

Here is what to do once an accident has happened: 1. Move your car. It is time to move your vehicle to a safe area to prevent it from being hit by other vehicles. We realize that this may not be possible in all accident situations.

2. Stop your vehicle. Ensure that your car isn’t moving anymore. Turn off your engine, and shift the car into park.

3. Hazard lights. The switch for your hazard lights is located near your steering column, in an area with other buttons that are likely not used frequently. The hazard light switch is probably a small button with a triangular icon on it, and is either orange or red to distinguish it from other buttons and make it easy to see in emergencies. Put these on once your vehicle is stopped, whether still on or pulled to the shoulder of the road.

4. Remain calm. We realize that is easier said than done, but anxiety or worry is not going to improve the fact that this accident has already occurred. Take a few deep breaths now that your car is out of the way of further damage.

5. Check to see if anybody has been hurt. How are the drivers of all vehicles involved? What about their passengers? Did the accident involve any pedestrians–if so, it’s quite important that you check on them as well! 6. Next, dial 911 immediately if anybody has been seriously hurt. If anybody has any kind of symptoms, even if they are feeling a bit dizzy, then they should be evaluated by a professional health care worker. However, you should still call the police if nobody has injured so they can help deal with vehicle damage; if the vehicles are unsafe to move, the police can control traffic while the accident situation is being dealt with. Your insurance company may also want a police report. Be honest with the police about exactly what happened.

7. Contact your insurance company to inform them of the accident. You may be able to file a claim online, or you may have to call them. They will likely send out an adjuster to assess the damage, and you will be advised on repair shops to take the vehicle to.

Article Courtesy of: Urse Dodge Chrysler

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