Tips to Handle a Single-Car Crash
A single-vehicle accident is a road traffic collision that involves a single-vehicle. Other similar types of accidents in this category include run-off-road collisions, rollover crashes, and vehicle collisions with animals.
If you have been involved in a single-vehicle crash, there are key things that you must do to ensure that you are protected. The first and essential step is to stop. It is your legal obligation to stop your vehicle even if you think there was no damage. That doesn’t mean you are taking responsibility for the crash. Instead, it gives a moment to clear your mind and take the next important steps.
Check for injuries
Find out if you have suffered any injuries. Also, check your passengers (if any). If you have been injured, don’t move. Instead, call law enforcement and medical emergency response officials. Wait for the experts. If you cannot make the call, request another person to make the call. This could be your passenger or someone who witnessed the crash.
If you suffered minor injuries and you can move, check on the passengers in your vehicle. If anyone is injured, call the police and medical emergency.
Get to safety
If you haven’t suffered severe injuries, try to move to the sidewalk or side of the road. If you can still drive your car, pull over at the side of the road. This will prevent instances of a traffic jam or causing a traffic accident. If you cannot move your car, leave it, and get to safety.
Exchange information
If there were other vehicles affected, it’s recommended to exchange contact information and insurance details with the other drivers. Here are the important details you should acquire.
- Full name and contact details
- The driver’s license number and vehicle license plate number
- The insurance company and the driver’s policy number
- Date, time, and location of the accident
- Color, type, and model of the car
It is in your best interest not to discuss fault for the accident when exchanging facts with the other drivers. Remember, the law allows you to file a personal injury claim if you firmly believe that someone was to blame for the accident.
An insurance adjuster reviewing your claim will analyze every detail, including what you did or said immediately before, during, and after the accident. They will also review other documents such as the police report, photos from the scene, and more. Never say anything that an insurance adjuster will use against you. Instead, call an attorney for help.
Notify your insurer
It is important to contact your insurer and report the accident as soon as possible. If you intend to file a personal injury claim, your insurer will need specific details to get the claim processed. Therefore, it makes sense to contact them while at the accident scene. Also, you should consult with a lawyer immediately (if possible).
Road accidents can leave even the most experienced drivers frazzled. Follow the tips discussed to go through this shocking experience successfully.
