Sep 3, 2021

As a driver, the idea of getting into a car accident is a reality nobody wants to consider.  However, if you are in an auto accident, you should do a few things. 

1. Determine If There Are Any Injuries 

The most important thing to do after an accident is to determine if anyone is injured. If you have passengers,  make sure you are okay before checking on them. If there are any doubts or complaints, make sure you call 9-1-1. It’s always safer to get looked at and find out you’re okay than deal with pain. 

Along the same lines, make sure you seek medical attention if you feel fine at first and then hurt later. 

If you’re involved in a wreck with another driver and uninjured, check on their condition. 

2. Contact the Police 

After figuring out the injury situation,  the next step is to call the police. Depending on how many were involved, you may be a second caller. Don’t worry, the more information the dispatcher receives, the better.  The accident may also get reported by someone who saw it happen.  

As you wait for the cops, gather your license, registration, and insurance cards. If you can move your vehicle from the driving lanes, go ahead and do so. If you don’t feel well or the vehicle isn’t drivable, don’t force it. 

Once the police arrive, answer their questions honestly. Let them know if you are feeling sick or sore so that they can get you the proper attention.  

You can also ask the police for a copy of their report. They may give you the report or the contact information for your insurance to get the report later.

3. Exchange Insurance Information 

The exchange of insurance information can occur before or after the police arrive. This is an important step as you need to report the other driver’s information to your insurance.  

4. Contact Your Insurance Company 

Once you have spoken with any other parties involved and the cops, it’s time to call your insurance.  It’s important to stay calm during this call. The people you speak with won’t rush you. They understand you have been through trauma.  

They’re going to ask you for information on the wreck, any injuries, the weather, and the condition of your vehicle. If you can gather pictures at the wreck, now is the time to turn those over so your insurance can perform its own investigation. 

6. Get Your Vehicle Looked At 

After you have dealt with the insurance, it’s time to deal with your vehicle. If you can drive it, you may want to have a mechanic check it over. You can use someone that works with your insurance or your own mechanic. Make sure you get a written report after they finish the post-wreck inspection.  

 If you determine your vehicle needs to be replaced after your accident, visit your local Buerkle Acura dealership. Our staff will gladly answer any questions you have. We can also let you test drive your new vehicle before you drive it home.