What To Do In Auto Collisions

By Author: Norris Rios
Total Articles: 572
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Follow these rules to get yourself through collisions as safely - in terms of health and finances - as possible.

Rule #1: Be Prepared

Being prepared is about having all the important and necessary items to deal with medical emergencies, law enforcement, and insurance issues. You also need to be mentally ready, and knowing what to do goes a long way. Print off this list and keep in with you in your vehicle for reference.

The items you must have in your vehicle at all times are:

* Mobile phone
* Information regarding special medical needs
* Notepad and pen
* First aid kit
* Seat-belt cutter
* Disposable camera
* Driver's license
* Vehicle registration
* Proof of insurance and coverage information

If any of these confuse you, read on as they are explained below.

Rule #2: Safety First

The first thing to do after a collision is check to see that everybody involved in the collision is safe. Start with yourself, then others in your vehicle, and then other drivers, passengers, and pedestrians who may have ...
... been injured, shocked, stressed, or otherwise mentally affected.
If you think someone may have suffered a head or neck injury, do not try to move the person. Simply stabilize their head so that it remains still and resting.

If someone is badly wounded and bleeding, apply pressure to the wound with a clean cloth, gauze, or a clean shirt if need be.
Always call an ambulance or another emergency vehicle for serious injuries.

Rule #3: Call the Police

To protect yourself, you need the police to come. First off, a police report is necessary for insurance claims. Secondly, they will help control the scene of the accident and make sure the involved parties remain calm and the situation stays under control. They are experienced at dealing with these things and a cool head is needed when you're not in the best state of mind.

Rule #4: Document Everything

Once you are sure everything is safe and secure, collect the contact information of everyone involved as well as witnesses. Talk to other drivers and exchange your driver's license information, registration number, and insurance details. Protect yourself from fraud by noting differences between names on each form of information.
Document the damage done to vehicles, yours and others'. Take photos with your disposable camera. Also, photograph the scene of the accident, taking in the position on the road, the vehicle debris, and all property damage.
Only once you have documented things should you move the vehicles from the road - and then only if it is obstructive and dangerous to leave them.

You will be totally prepared to file a successful claim, handle any legal issues, and talk to police.

Rule #5: Keep Your Mouth Shut

Stay calm and polite, but don't reveal anything you don't have to. You do not need to sign anything except the documents provided by police and other municipal workers. Never admit fault to anyone, including police. Report the simple facts accurately and let professionals do their jobs. There is plenty of time for talking later.

Rule #6: Car Insurance Quotes

If rates go up, use car insurance quotes. Car insurance quotes can find you an affordable police right away!