However, don’t give a lengthy speech about all the detailed things you were doing just before the collision. Don’t deny the obvious or start a fight with the other driver. It’s OK to say “I’m sorry,” if you really know you caused the collision, such as running a red light, rear-ending another car, or driving while distracted. Don’t get rid of your cell phone until after the claim is resolved.Ĩ. Take photos of their license plate numbers, and of their insurance cards if they can produce one. Just exchange information such as other people’s names and contact information. Don’t play “super lawyer” at the scene by debating fault or damages with others involved in the collision. Take shots from different angles, including close-ups of damage to any vehicle involved in the crash.ħ. Start from perhaps fifty yards away, then get photos while walking closer to the vehicles. Use it to take a series of photos of the scene. Be helpful, but don’t get in their way, and don’t argue with other people who were involved in the crash.Ħ. Communicate. In serious crashes, you will need to stay and talk to first responders such as police, fire department personnel, life flight helicopters or ambulances. Talk to others involved in the collision about whether anyone needs medical assistance. Put out flares or put your flashers on to warn traffic.Ĥ. This means to first determine if you, others in your car, or people in the other vehicle, are hurt.ģ.
If your car can be moved, then move it out of traffic.
Instead, resolve to power through the unfortunate situation in a rational, methodical way.Ģ. Don’t let your emotions spin out of control. Here are 19 helpful steps to follow when you are involved in a car collision.ġ.